The historic Ebenezer Hancock House, a landmark of American history in Boston
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, MA — The Ebenezer Hancock House, a landmark property with deep historical roots, has been placed on the market for the first time in more than five decades. The historic building, located at 10 Marshall St., offers a rare opportunity for buyers interested in Boston’s rich American history. The sale marks a significant moment for preservationists and history enthusiasts alike, as the house is the only remaining property in Boston associated with Founding Father John Hancock.
Constructed in 1767, the Ebenezer Hancock House was owned by John Hancock, the prominent figure known for his signature on the Declaration of Independence and as the first governor of Massachusetts. The house’s location is near the Green Dragon Tavern, another key historic site that played a role in American revolutionary activities.
John Hancock sold the house in 1785 to a Boston merchant, ending his ownership after 18 years. The property was later owned by Herbert Hancock, John Hancock’s younger brother, and has served multiple functions over the centuries, including storage, business, and residential uses. Since 1974, the building has been owned by the law firm Swartz & Swartz.
The property spans 5,748 square feet and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, highlighting its national significance. It sits well within Boston’s historical district, nestled among other iconic sites like Haymarket and Faneuil Hall. The building’s architecture reflects a Late Georgian interior style, with original details preserved through years of renovations.
The house’s first floor has a notable history as well; from 1798 to 1963, it was home to the longest continuously operating shoe store in the United States. The upper floors have housed a variety of functions, including a boarding house, an officers’ club, and a privately-operated museum.
Today, the property includes 12 private offices and is conveniently situated within walking distance of Boston City Hall and two stations of the MBTA. Its zoning allows for mixed-use development, offering potential for both commercial and residential projects.
The sale is being managed by LandVest, a reputable real estate firm. However, a publicly disclosed price has not yet been announced. The property was assessed by the city of Boston at $1.6 million, providing a baseline for its valuation.
Realtor Dave Killen expressed interest in attracting an owner-occupant who values the building’s historic importance and desires to maintain its legacy. Due to its prime location on the Freedom Trail, the property is surrounded by other nationally significant landmarks, enhancing its appeal to those interested in Boston’s historic fabric.
One of the noteworthy aspects of the Ebenezer Hancock House is its role during the American Revolution. It served as a storage site for 2 million silver crowns loaned by the French government to support the Continental Army, emphasizing its importance during a pivotal period in American history.
The Ebenezer Hancock House stands as a tangible link to Boston’s colonial and revolutionary past. Its upcoming sale, after decades of private ownership, presents an opportunity for new stewardship of this historic building. Whether preserved as a historical site, converted for modern use, or maintained as a private residence, the property’s future remains a significant chapter in Boston’s ongoing story of preservation and historic appreciation.
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