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 After Over 50 Years
The city of Boston has announced that the Ebenezer Hancock House, a significant historic property, is now available for sale for the first time in more than five decades. The property, located at 10 Marshall St., holds immense historical importance as the only remaining property in Boston associated with Founding Father John Hancock.
Historical Significance and Ownership
Built in 1767, the house was originally owned and constructed by John Hancock, who famously signed the Declaration of Independence and served as the first governor of Massachusetts. The house’s unique connection to Hancock makes it a vital piece of American history. In 1785, Hancock sold the house to a Boston merchant, marking the beginning of its various uses over the centuries.
The property was acquired by the current owners, law firm Swartz & Swartz, in 1974, who have maintained ownership for more than 40 years. Despite its age, the house remains a well-preserved historical structure and is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.
Property Details and Architectural Features
The Ebenezer Hancock House encompasses approximately 5,748 square feet and features interior details characteristic of the Late Georgian style. Its architecture includes classic woodwork, detailed moldings, and period-specific finishes, making it a true example of 18th-century design.
The first floor has a notable history: from 1798 to 1963, it served as the longest continuously operating shoe store in the United States. The upper floors have historically been adaptable, functioning as a boarding house, an officers club, and even as a privately-operated museum.
The building also contains 12 private offices, which highlights its versatile potential for development or use today. Its proximity to key Boston landmarks places it near City Hall and two MBTA transit stations, offering excellent accessibility.
Additional Historical and Cultural Context
Among the house’s notable historical associations is< b>Herbert Hancock, John Hancock’s younger brother, who lived in this residence. During its early days, the property served an essential role in American logistics, specifically storing 2 million silver crowns loaned by the French Government to the Continental Army during the American Revolution.
Its location on Boston’s Freedom Trail situates it among other historic sites, including Haymarket and Faneuil Hall. The property’s surroundings echo Boston’s colonial past and significance as a hub of independence-era activity.
Real Estate and Future Potential
The sale is being handled by LandVest, a prominent real estate firm, although no public listing price has been disclosed. The property’s assessed value by the city is $1.6 million.
Experts involved in the sale have expressed a desire to find an owner-occupant who values the property’s historical legacy and demonstrates enthusiasm for its preservation. The property’s zoning for mixed-use development opens doors for various commercial and residential projects, allowing for flexibility in its future utilization.
The property’s location offers strategic advantages for potential development, situated near major city centers and with a rich backdrop of American history.
Summary
The Ebenezer Hancock House represents a unique opportunity for history enthusiasts and property investors alike. Its connection to John Hancock, its architectural heritage, and its prime location near Boston’s historic sites underscore its significance. As it enters the market after more than 50 years under the current ownership, it remains a treasured piece of Boston’s past with considerable potential for future use.
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HERE Resources
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
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MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
