Welcome, Neighbors!

When the Bush House was built in 1878, it was an elegant farmhouse situated outside the boundaries of the City of Salem. The nearest neighbors were located to the north, across the County Road, or to the west beyond the yet-unnamed High Street. In those days, hospitality was extended to Bush family members and friends, political allies and commercial partners, Salem's high society, and the down-and-out in search of a hot meal.

By 1953, when the House became a museum under the auspices of the Salem Art Association, the City of Salem had expanded to embrace the old home with its surrounding parkland and growing neighborhoods to the south, east, and west. The Bush House Museum opened its doors to welcome the community to view art exhibits, participate in classes, and hear stories about the family who helped shape Salem's history.

Those doors are still open, and you're welcome to stop by, especially if it's been a while since you've visited us. Since we understand that you can't come every day, we're also opening our virtual doors to the Internet community. We're here to tell stories -- and to listen to your stories -- about the Bush family and the history of Salem. We're here to show you historic photographs, to highlight objects from our collection, to let you know what's on exhibit right now and what we're learning about.

So here's our invitation to you: come back and visit again soon. Tell us what interests you, or ask us a question. You're welcome. And, thanks.