General Benjamin Lincoln House

The General Benjamin Lincoln House, nestled in the charming town of Hingham, Massachusetts, is a treasure trove of American history and architectural splendor. This historic landmark, located at 181 North Street, was the birthplace and principal residence of Major General Benjamin Lincoln, a distinguished figure in the American Revolutionary War. With its storied past and well-preserved structure, the house offers an intriguing glimpse into the life and times of one of America's esteemed military leaders.

The History of the General Benjamin Lincoln House

The house's origins date back to 1665 when it was built by Thomas The Cooper Lincoln, a name given to distinguish him from other Thomas Lincolns in the area. Initially a modest structure, the house underwent significant expansions and modifications over the centuries. Around 1715, it acquired an L-shaped appearance, and further expansions were made by General Benjamin Lincoln in the late 18th century, giving the house its present configuration.

The house has witnessed numerous historical events and changes. One notable alteration was the addition of a porch in the late 19th century, which was later removed in 1937, marking the only significant change since General Lincoln's time. Despite these modifications, the house has retained much of its original character and charm, thanks to preservation efforts by the Lincoln family descendants and the Hingham Historical Society.

In 2009, the Lincoln family descendants negotiated a preservation restriction agreement with Historic New England, a regional historic preservation society, to protect the house's interior and exterior character. This agreement ensures that any changes to the property are made in consultation with Historic New England, preserving the house's historical integrity for future generations.

Exploring the General Benjamin Lincoln House

Visitors to the General Benjamin Lincoln House are transported back in time as they step through its doors. The house is a 2½-story wood-frame structure, seven bays wide, with a side-gable roof, two interior chimneys, and clapboard siding. It rests on a sturdy granite foundation, a testament to the craftsmanship of the era. The main entrance, located in the center of the south-facing facade, is topped by a simple flat corniced pediment, inviting guests into the heart of this historic home.

Upon entering, visitors find themselves in a central hall with stairs leading to the second floor. To the right of the hall is the main parlor, a room that exudes elegance and history. The parlor features paneled walls around the fireplace, adorned with blue Delft tiles, adding a touch of Dutch influence to the decor. Behind the parlor are two smaller rooms, traditionally described as the 1637 kitchen and borning room, each with its own unique charm and historical significance.

To the left of the central hall is the former entry vestibule, complete with a winding staircase that adds a sense of mystery and adventure to the exploration. Adjacent to this is the 1715 dining room, which boasts a fully paneled fireplace wall, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Behind the dining room is the house's 1715 kitchen, a space that offers a glimpse into the culinary practices of the past.

The house features a total of seven staircases, each leading to different parts of the home, adding an element of intrigue and discovery for visitors. The second floor houses seven bedrooms, each with its own story to tell, reflecting the lives of the many generations that have called this house their home.

Benjamin Lincoln: The Man Behind the House

Born in the house in 1733, Benjamin Lincoln grew up to become a significant figure in American history. He was active in local politics and held various leadership positions in the militia of the Province of Massachusetts Bay. His military career reached its pinnacle during the American Revolutionary War, where he served as a major general in the Continental Army. Notably, he surrendered American forces at the Siege of Charleston in 1780 and was present at the British surrender at Yorktown in 1781.

After the war, General Lincoln served as Secretary at War before returning to Massachusetts in 1783. He continued to play an active role in state politics and the military, leading the militia that suppressed Shays' Rebellion in 1787. He also served one term as lieutenant governor in 1788 and was the federal collector at the Port of Boston for many years thereafter.

Visiting the General Benjamin Lincoln House Today

Today, the General Benjamin Lincoln House is a National Historic Landmark and a cherished museum managed by the Hingham Historical Society. The house offers guided tours by appointment, allowing visitors to delve deep into its rich history and architectural beauty. Each room tells a story, from the paneled walls and Delft tiles to the winding staircases and inviting fireplaces.

The house stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of General Benjamin Lincoln and the preservation efforts of his descendants and the Hingham community. It is a place where history comes alive, offering visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the life and times of one of America's revered military leaders.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the General Benjamin Lincoln House promises an enriching and memorable experience. So, plan your visit today and embark on a journey through time at this remarkable historic landmark.