Author Archives: Rebecca Beatrice Brooks

About Rebecca Beatrice Brooks

Rebecca Beatrice Brooks is the author and publisher of the History of Massachusetts Blog. Rebecca is a freelance journalist and history lover who got her start in journalism working for small-town newspapers in Massachusetts and New Hampshire after she graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a B.A. in journalism. Visit this site's About page to find out more about Rebecca.

Pirates in Boston, Massachusetts

Boston, Massachusetts has a rich maritime history that includes pirates and privateers. In fact, Boston had a reputation for being a pirate hot spot in the 17th and 18th centuries…. Read more »

The Witchcraft Trial of Philip English

Philip English was a wealthy businessman from Salem who was accused of witchcraft during the Salem Witch Trials in 1692. Philip English’s original name was Philippe d’Anglois and he was… Read more »

Hiram Marble's excavation at Dungeon Rock Lynn MA illustration from Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper circa August 1878

Lost and Buried Treasure in Massachusetts

Massachusetts is home to many stories of lost and buried treasure. From buried pirate treasure to lost war loot there are legends of lost treasure all over the state. The… Read more »

Samuel Sewall: Salem Witch Judge

Samuel Sewall was a judge in the Salem Witch Trials and the only judge to apologize for his role in the trials. Sewall was born in Bishopstoke, England on March… Read more »

"Court Trial of Witches," illustration by unknown artist, published in "Witchcraft Illustrated" by Henrietta D Kimball, circa 1892

Bartholomew Gedney: Salem Witch Judge

Bartholomew Gedney was one of the judges during the Salem Witch Trials. Gedney was also a physician, town selectman, ship carpenter, merchant and a colonel in the Essex County militia…. Read more »