Pioneer Village
Pioneer Village (Listed 2003, Status – Improving)
SUMMARY
Pioneer Village is one of America’s oldest living history museums. It was placed on the Most Endangered List in 2003 due to concerns over its physical condition and lack of public access. It is currently considered Improving with the main sign of improvement being the 2008 contract signed with Gordon College to manage this site for 5 years. The college plans to expand its previously limited public access to daily during the 2010-2011 season, and to continue the historic reenactment programming it began in 2007.
FULL REPORT
History and Significance
Located in South Salem’s Forest River Park, the village was constructed by the City in 1930 under the direction of George Francis Dow to celebrate Massachusetts’ tercentenary. This re-created 17th century fishing village presents a conjectural depiction of Salem as it might have appeared at the time of John Winthrop’s arrival. A replica of Winthrop’s Arbella is one of several of the village’s 1930 elements lost through the years to fire or vandalism.
Description and History of the Threat
The village was restored in the late 1980’s, but is currently in need of further repairs and still lacks a long-term maintenance plan. Moreover, its fate upon expiration of Gordon’s contract is uncertain.
Progress and Setbacks
Since being granted the management contract by the City of Salem, Gordon College has undertaken extensive maintenance work. This has included repair of vandalized doors and windows, elimination of mold, humane removal of wild animals, rebuilding fences, removal of overgrowth, and replanting gardens. The college has also replaced rotten or missing interior items, including curtains, bedclothes, and mattresses. Improvements to enhance public access have included replacing signage and creating a ticket booth at the site’s entrance.
Pioneer Village has benefited from improvements in each year since 2006. Salem Preservation, Inc. spearheaded restoration efforts with the support of a $10,000 Community Development Block Grant and the help of the Boy Scouts of Salem and Peabody and the Massachusetts Ponkapoad Tribal Council.
How You Can Help
Contact kristina(dot)stevick(at)gordon(dot)edu for information about supporting Pioneer Village.
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