SRA backs pirate festival for Derby Street
Salem Redevelopment Authority approves pirate-themed festival for Derby Street. The SRA unanimously approved a Charlotte Forten Fund grant for "Pirates! The Battle for Derby Street," an April 25 festival at Charlotte Forten Park featuring a mock battle between historical pirate hunter John Turner
Salem Redevelopment Authority · Meeting of March 11, 2026
Salem Redevelopment Authority approves pirate-themed festival for Derby Street. The SRA unanimously approved a Charlotte Forten Fund grant for "Pirates! The Battle for Derby Street," an April 25 festival at Charlotte Forten Park featuring a mock battle between historical pirate hunter John Turner and pirate Sam Bellamy.
Organizers Carolyn Shapiro of Real Pirates Salem and Dakota Russell of the House of the Seven Gables, fiscal sponsor at $150 sponsorship rate, said the event will include vendors, performers, and games for Derby Street shoppers and diners, with 12 local businesses participating. Treasurer Christine Madore requested final reporting on fund usage and measured outcomes including repeat visitorship, museum attendance, and sales impact.
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Source: the Salem Redevelopment Authority meeting of March 11, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
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