Schiller Woods Magic Water Pump is a popular attraction located in Schiller Woods Forest Preserve in Chicago. This enchanting water pump has been captivating visitors of all ages for many years. The Magic Water Pump is a unique and interactive play area designed especially for children. It features a series of water fountains and sprayers that shoot water into the air, creating a mesmerizing display. Kids can run and play through the water jets, getting soaked and having a great time. What makes the Magic Water Pump truly special is its magical effects.
On March 1, Sarah Goode, Sarah Osborne, and Tituba, an enslaved woman from Barbados, became the first Salem residents to be charged with the capital crime of witchcraft. Later that day, Tituba confessed to the crime and subsequently aided the authorities in identifying more Salem witches. With encouragement from adults in the community, the girls, who were soon joined by other “afflicted” Salem residents, accused a widening circle of local residents of witchcraft, mostly middle-aged women but also several men and even one four-year-old child. During the next few months, the afflicted area residents incriminated more than 150 women and men from Salem Village and the surrounding areas of satanic practices.
Bishop, known around town for her dubious moral character, frequented taverns, dressed flamboyantly by Puritan standards , and was married three times. Thirteen women and five men from all stations of life followed her to the gallows on three successive hanging days before the court was disbanded by Governor William Phipps in October of that year.
What makes the Magic Water Pump truly special is its magical effects. The water sprayers are set in motion by stepping on hidden tiles on the ground. These tiles activate the pumps and start the water show.
The Salem Witch Trials 1692
With October just around the corner, Halloween and Salem Massachusetts often comes to mind. The city of Salem Massachusetts has a global perception for being a town of Halloween and witch related festivities. Part of this perception is tied to the Salem Haunted Happenings celebration that takes place here in Salem Massachusetts every October. This year will be the 40th anniversary of the fun and festive celebration. These celebrations are full of joy and togetherness, but it is also important to understand the history that comes along with the discussion of the Witch Trials and the October season. Take a moment to read the brief history below to deepen your understanding of Salem Massachusetts and what happened here in 1692.
The Salem Witch Trials of 1692
In January of 1692, the daughter and niece of Reverend Samuel Parris of Salem Village became ill. William Griggs, the village doctor, was called in when they failed to improve. His diagnosis of bewitchment put into motion the forces that would ultimately result in the hanging deaths of 19 men and women. In addition one man was pressed to death; several others died in prison, and the lives of many were irrevocably changed.
Time Period Of The Salem Witch Trials
To understand the events of the Salem Witch Trials, it is necessary to examine the times in which accusations of witchcraft occurred. There were the ordinary stresses of 17th-century life in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. A strong belief in the devil, factions among Salem Village families and rivalry with nearby Salem Town combined with a recent smallpox epidemic and the threat of attack by warring tribes created a fertile ground for fear and suspicion. Soon, prisons were filled with more than 150 men and women from towns surrounding Salem; their names had been “cried out” by tormented young girls as the cause of their pain. All would await trial for a crime punishable by death in 17th-century New England – the practice of witchcraft.
Historical Background of the Witch Trials
In June of 1692, the special Court of Oyer (to hear) and Terminer (to decide) sat in Salem to hear the cases of witchcraft. Presided over by Chief Justice William Stoughton, the court was made up of magistrates and jurors. The first to be tried was Bridget Bishop of Salem who was found guilty and was hanged on June 10. Thirteen women and five men from all stations of life followed her to the gallows on three successive hanging days before the court was disbanded by Governor William Phipps in October of that year. The Superior Court of Judicature, formed to replace the “witchcraft” court, did not allow spectral evidence. This belief in the power of the accused to use their invisible shapes or spectres to torture their victims had sealed the fates of those tried by the Court of Oyer and Terminer. The new court released those awaiting trial and pardoned those awaiting execution. In effect, the Salem Witch Trials were over.
As years passed, apologies were offered and restitution was made to the victims’ families. Historians and sociologists have examined this most complex episode in our history so that we may understand the issues of that era and view subsequent events with heightened awareness. The parallels between the Salem Witch Trials and more modern examples of “witch hunting” like the McCarthy hearings of the 1950’s, are remarkable.
How to Learn More Today
Salem Massachusetts to this day is still filled with a plethora of resources surrounding the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Guests and residents alike can engage with local organizations that have put time and hard work into compiling resources surrounding the events that took place. The Salem Witch Museum has a wonderful timeline inside of their museum that lists out the history of what it means to be a witch, from its origins to current time. For visual learners, History Alive offers their Cry Innocent show which puts the audience in the seat of the jury during the trial of Bridget Bishop in 1692. The Peabody Essex Museum is another wonderful institution here in Salem Massachusetts that houses primary documents from the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. There are many more businesses and organizations around town that give background on the Salem Witch Trials that can be found listed on our Museums & Attractions tab here on our Haunted Happenings site. We hope that this knowledge helps you to engage with our historic city in a meaningful way connecting you to our past, and allowing you to better understand and appreciate the current day Salem Massachusetts.
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In January of 1692, the daughter and niece of Reverend Samuel Parris of Salem Village became ill. William Griggs, the village doctor, was called in when they failed to improve. His diagnosis of bewitchment put into motion the forces that would ultimately result in the hanging deaths of 19 men and women. In addition one man was pressed to death; several others died in prison, and the lives of many were irrevocably changed.
Children are fascinated by the seemingly invisible energy that powers the sprayers. The magic doesn't stop there. The water pump also has an educational aspect. The various sprayers are labeled with different elements, such as air, earth, fire, and water. This helps children learn about the four elements and their importance in our world. In addition to the interactive water play, the Magic Water Pump area is surrounded by lush greenery and picnic tables. Families can bring a picnic lunch and enjoy some quality time together in nature. There are also walking and biking trails nearby, so visitors can explore the beautiful forest preserve. The Schiller Woods Magic Water Pump is a popular spot during the hot summer months when families are looking for a fun way to cool down. The combination of water play, magic, and nature makes it a perfect destination for a day of fun and adventure. Whether you're a child or just a child at heart, the Schiller Woods Magic Water Pump is sure to bring joy and excitement. So grab your swimsuit, towel, and sense of wonder, and get ready for an unforgettable experience at this enchanting water pump..
Reviews for "Exploring the Schiller Woods Magix Water Pump: A Journey through Time"
1. John - 1/5 stars - I found the Schiller Woods Magix Water Pump to be a complete disappointment. The water pressure was incredibly weak, and it took forever to fill even a small bucket. Additionally, the pump seemed to get clogged easily, causing further delays and frustrations. I would not recommend this product to anyone in need of a reliable and efficient water pump.
2. Emily - 2/5 stars - While the Schiller Woods Magix Water Pump did pump water as advertised, I was not impressed with its overall performance. The pump was excessively loud, making it difficult to use during quiet hours or when trying to relax outdoors. Additionally, the product did not come with clear instructions, making it confusing to set up and operate. Overall, I expected more from this water pump and would not purchase it again.
3. David - 1/5 stars - The Schiller Woods Magix Water Pump failed to meet my expectations. The pump constantly leaked water, and no matter how many times I tightened the connections, the issue persisted. This resulted in wasted water and a messy surrounding area. The pump also did not have adequate power to pump water uphill, which limited its usefulness for me. I recommend looking for a more reliable and efficient water pump option.