News Summary
The Ebenezer Hancock House, a landmark associated with Founding Father John Hancock, is on the market for the first time in over 50 years. Located at 10 Marshall Street in Boston, this historic property, built in 1767, has significance in American revolutionary history and is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. The property offers 5,748 square feet and has served various functions over the years. The law firm Swartz & Swartz, which has owned it since the 1970s, is seeking an owner-occupant who appreciates the rich history and preservation of this cultural asset.
Boston’s Historic Ebenezer Hancock House Hits the Market for the First Time in Over 50 Years
Boston, MA — The Ebenezer Hancock House, a historic property directly linked to one of the nation’s Founding Fathers, is now available for purchase for the first time in more than five decades. This rare offering provides a unique opportunity for buyers interested in American history and Boston’s architectural heritage.
Key Details of the Property
Located at 10 Marshall Street, the house was built in 1767 by John Hancock, a prominent figure in American history known for his large signature on the Declaration of Independence and for serving as the first governor of Massachusetts. It remains the only remaining property in Boston associated with John Hancock.
The house encompasses 5,748 square feet and is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The property’s proximity to significant historic landmarks such as the Green Dragon Tavern, Haymarket, and Faneuil Hall situates it firmly within Boston’s historic district along the Freedom Trail.
Historical Significance and Past Uses
Originally owned by John Hancock, the house was sold in 1785 to a Boston merchant. It has since hosted various tenants and uses over the centuries, including being the residence of Herbert Hancock, John Hancock’s younger brother.
A notable aspect of the house’s history involves its role in the American Revolution era. Ebenezer Hancock, another family member, used the house to store approximately 2 million silver crowns. These coins were loaned by the French Government to support the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.
The property’s historic interior features Late Georgian details. Inside, the first floor housed the longest continuously operated shoe store in the U.S., which remained there from 1798 until 1963. Additionally, the upper floors served multifunctional purposes, including functioning as a boarding house, an officers’ club, and at one point, a privately operated museum.
Current Ownership and Sale Details
The current owners, a law firm named Swartz & Swartz, purchased the property in 1974. Since then, they have maintained its historic integrity. The property is now up for sale through LandVest, a well-known real estate company. However, the sale listing has not publicly disclosed a specific price. The house is assessed by the city of Boston at approximately $1.6 million.
The building includes 12 private offices and is situated in a strategic location near Boston City Hall and two MBTA stations, offering both commercial and residential development potential.
Potential and Zoning
The property is zoned for mixed-use development, which allows for both commercial and residential projects. This flexible zoning coupled with its historic significance has attracted attention from investors and prospective buyers interested in preserving Boston’s historical landscape.
Public Interest and Future Outlook
Realtor Dave Killen expressed interest in finding an owner-occupant who values the property’s rich history and is committed to its preservation. The sale offers an opportunity for historic stewards to acquire a property that has served as a vital part of Boston’s past for more than two centuries.
The Ebenezer Hancock House’s location on Boston’s Freedom Trail, among other historic sites, underscores its importance and appeal to history enthusiasts, tourists, and residents alike.
As the property transitions to new ownership, preserving its historic features and integrating it into Boston’s vibrant urban fabric will likely be central to its future use. The historic Ebenezer Hancock House remains a tangible link to Boston’s revolutionary era, offering a rare chance to own part of American history.
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Additional Resources
- Boston.com: John Hancock’s Boston Home Up for Grabs
- Wikipedia: John Hancock
- MassLive: Historic Home Once Owned by John Hancock
- Google Search: Ebenezer Hancock House
- Boston Magazine: John Hancock Insurance
- Encyclopedia Britannica: American Revolution
- 401k Specialist: Suite of Advisor-Centric Retirement Plan Solutions
- Google News: John Hancock House
