Lest you think it's a warlock, it's the rare non-witch-related attraction in the city's center. The statue is of Roger Conant who was the area's first govenor in 1629. The witch trials held here in 1692 are part of Americana mythology - highlighted by the works of Nathaniel Hawthorne and Arthur Miller. When we read the actual facts at the polished National Park Headquarters, we were surprised to learn that while 100's had been accused, only 19 had been hung. Philippe commented, "19 false witches have given rise to an entire industry of people who claim to be real ones." I remember reading in my teens in the Larousse French Encyclopedia an entry on Reno, "Quick Divorce." Neither city could be so single-faceted.
A few unexpected highlights:
While there we happened upon an Edsel convention. The luxury Ford was made for fewer than two years - a blue collar tuxedo couldn't ever be the beau of the ball. We spoke with an enthusiast who was more than willing to offer details on his beloved like "8 cylinders, push button steering wheel transmission..." I wouldn't tense at seeing the Sheriff's Edsel in my rear-view mirror.
A rain storm forced us inside a swanky hotel lobby. William slept while Philippe and I exchanged sections of the Wall Street Journal. Ultimate leisure!
Ye Olde Pepper Companie dates from 1806. The on-site factory is located across from the House of Seven Gables. Their dark chocolate turtles are life-changing. Oprah agrees. The chatty clerk told me this as well as her birthdate, her son's interests and Bewitched history.
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