[1749.][C] The Houses (in Salem) were generally very
ordinary. The first handsome house was built by Mr. Jno.
Turner, then Col. Pickman, then Mr. J. Cabot, &c.

There was but one ropewalk, and that was on the neck, inside
the gate. But one tavern of any note, and that was an old
house at the corner now occupied by Stearns' brick store.
The Houses for public worship were only the old (first)
church--the eastern parish--the secession from the first
church--the Friends' meeting house, and the Episcopal
church.

The number of Inhabitants was estimated at between 5 and
6000.

The Commerce of this town was chiefly with Spain and
Portugal and the West Indies, especially with St. Eustatia.
The Cod fishery was carried on with success and advantage.
The Schooners were employed on the fishing banks in the
summer, and in the autumn were laden with Fish, Rum,
Molasses, and the produce of the country, and sent to
Virginia and Maryland, and there spent the winter retailing
their cargoes, and in return brought Corn and Wheat and
Tobacco. This Virginia voyage was seldom very profitable,
but as it served to keep the crews together, it was
continued till more advantageous employment offered.

There were a few Chaises kept by gentlemen for their own
use, but it was no easy matter to hire one to go a journey.