Looking back to 1675, when John Fenwick signed a treaty with the Lenape Indians, visitors find Salem still retains some of this history book character. Here in southwestern New Jersey, Salem is just far enough away from the metropolitan areas of Wilmington and Philadelphia to be considered quiet and quaint. Located in the Delaware Valley, this Salem County town has seen a remarkable effort in revitalization. Boasting one of the oldest courthouses in the country, the Salem City Heritage Trail is made up historic 18th and 19th century homes, shops and public buildings. Broadway and Market streets are registered on both the New Jersey State and national registers as historic places.
     Since the passage of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the New Jersey Register of Historic Places Act of 1970, nearly 150 communities in New Jersey have taken the lead in preservation. Continuing with their endeavors, Salem remains focused on its plan to become a major tourism center. Pictured here is the Jacob Hufty home, located on Market Street in the historic district. Hufty, born in New Jersey, served as a state militia member, judge, and member of the New Jersey Legislative Council. Hufty was also elected to the Eleventh, Twelfth and Thirteenth Congresses.
     Across town, located at the Friends Burial Ground, visitors will find one of the most famous trees in America, the Salem Oak. Covering more than a quarter acre, estimates place the tree's age over 500 years. One of New Jersey's few survivors of its original forest, this ancient oak looked over the original land purchase of Salem, adding to the charm of Salem, one of the oldest towns in America.