GPS City GuideWinston-SalemOld Salem

Stop 1 of 32 · Winston-Salem audio walking tour

Old Salem

Old Salem · 1766 · Moravian Settlement Takes Root

What you'll hear here: about a minute on Old Salem — how it came to be, who it mattered to, and what to look for while you're standing in front of it.

Notice Old Salem, the historic district of Winston-Salem first settled by the Moravian community in 1766. Here a living-history museum interprets the restored Moravian community; the nonprofit organization that began this work took shape in 1950, though some private residents had restored buildings earlier. As the Old Salem Historic District it was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1966 and was expanded fifty years later.

The district showcases the culture of the Moravian settlement in the Province of North Carolina during the colonial 18th century and the post-statehood 19th century through its communal buildings, churches, houses and shops. Two buildings here are individually designated National Historic Landmarks: the Salem Tavern and the Single Brothers' House. Additional buildings and properties have been added to the National Register, including St. Philips Moravian Church, the Single Brothers Industrial Complex Site, and the West Salem Historic District.

Ownership of buildings and land around you is divided among Old Salem, Inc., the Wachovia Historical Society, private owners, Salem College, Salem Academy and the Salem Congregation. Picture the communal buildings, churches, houses and shops that frame this historic place.

Where it is

Coordinates
36.0872, -80.2422
Area
Old Salem
Era
1766 · Moravian Settlement Takes Root
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Three stops free. No account needed. The audio plays itself as you walk.