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If you find yourself strolling through Downtown Salem on a pleasant afternoon, or evening, you may bump into Jeffrey Lilley leading a group of visitors through cobblestone streets and back alleys. In 2021 Jeffrey decided to open a tour business that is based on historical facts that dives into the enthralling history of Salem, Massachusetts. Jeffrey believes that “It’s the true history of Salem itself, the real stories, that is the captivating content that people come to hear about, year after year”.
Before rebranding the tour company to its current iteration of Salem Uncovered, Jeffrey’s company went by the name Better Than Fiction, which highlighted his philosophy that you don’t need to make up content when you live in a place surrounded by such rich and diverse history. Before coming to Salem Jeffrey spent a chunk of his time abroad both in an academic setting and as a US Marine. From both his time spent overseas and his childhood in the woods of New England, he found inspiration in sharing the often overlooked, but always enthralling, history of a destination. This is what Jeffrey believes is the core to a destination, the deep history and rich cultural tapestry that is woven across generations. It is within these threads of history where we can truly appreciate the beaty of the entire piece, or in this case robust history of a destination.
Jeffrey’s tours begin in a location where he helped to create a piece of local history himself. In 1906 the iconic magician Harry Houdini dazzled the residents and visitors of Salem alike with a series of shows at the Essex Street Theatre, which were preceded by an exhibition show that took place at the Salem Police Station where he escaped from a cell, shackles, and the building itself. The site where this trick once took place is now office space, however it’s commemorated here in Salem at the small alley between 15 and 19 Front Street, and it is known as Houdini Way. This new order to name the historic right of way was brought to the City Council by Jeffrey and passed by the City of Salem on July 15th, 2021.
With tours running Thursday through Monday at, 3pm, and 7pm (And many more in October) Salem Uncovered offers both daytime and nighttime tours that are sure to satiate even the most ravenous of history bugs, covering both The Salem Witch Trials and Salem’s Dark History. Jeffrey not only uncovers the fascinating history of the city, but he brings the content to life with his quick witted and hilarious banter. A resident of Salem, MA for 6 years Jeffrey loves sharing. While strolling along with Salem Uncovered tours you will encounter a plethora of iconic landmarks, as well as lesser known gems. Jeffrey allows patrons of the tour to take a “step behind the scenes” of Salem, MA and invites guests to tag along with him on the journey.
So, when it comes to planning your next trip to Salem, MA let Salem Uncovered be your guide. Jeffrey is here to make sure that your visit isn’t just a box to check off, but a culturally enriching experience. To learn more about Salem Uncovered click the link HERE.
