Author Archives: Rebecca Beatrice Brooks

About Rebecca Beatrice Brooks

Rebecca Beatrice Brooks is the writer and publisher of the History of Massachusetts Blog. Rebecca is a freelance writer 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.

Sarah Good's Memorial Marker, Salem Witch Trials Memorial, Salem Mass, November 2015. Photo Credit: Rebecca Brooks

The Witchcraft Trial of Sarah Good

Sarah Good was one one of the first women to be accused of witchcraft during the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Good was the wife of William Good and, at… Read more »

The "Trial of Giles Corey" illustration by Charles Reinhardt, circa 1878

The Curse of Giles Corey

Giles Corey was a successful farmer from Salem village who was accused of witchcraft during the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Born in Northampton, England, in 1621, Corey immigrated to… Read more »

Illustration of the hanging of Bridget Bishop

The Witchcraft Trial of Bridget Bishop

Bridget Bishop was the first victim to be hanged during the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Bishop, whose maiden name was Playfer, was born sometime between 1632 and 1635 in… Read more »

The Lyceum building circa 2012. Photo credit: Rebecca Brooks

Historic Lyceum Building Renovated

The historic Lyceum building, built on top of the former site of Bridget Bishop‘s apple orchard, has recently been renovated. The building is reportedly haunted by the ghost of Bridget… Read more »

Who Participated in the Boston Tea Party?

Although considered heroic and brave by many, the names of participants in the Boston Tea Party remained a secret for years in order to protect them from persecution by the… Read more »