Boston’s Historic Ebenezer Hancock House Hits the Market

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 of Ownership

Boston, MA — The Ebenezer Hancock House, a significant historic property tied directly to one of America’s Founding Fathers, has been listed for sale for the first time in more than half a century. The property, located at 10 Marshall Street, offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of early American history.

Key Historical Significance

Constructed in 1767, the house was originally owned by John Hancock, who is renowned for his prominent signature on the Declaration of Independence and served as Massachusetts’ first governor. It remains the only surviving property in Boston directly associated with Hancock, making it a unique piece of American Revolutionary history. The property is also notable for its association with Hancock’s younger brother, Herbert Hancock, who resided there.

The Ebenezer Hancock House played a vital role during the Revolutionary War era. It was used by Ebenezer Hancock to store an estimated 2 million silver crowns loaned by the French Government, intended for the Continental Army, highlighting its strategic importance during that time. The house features interior details characteristic of the Late Georgian style, reflecting its historical period.

Historical Usage and Features

Over the centuries, the building has served varied functions beyond its original residential purpose. Its first floor housed the longest-operating shoe store in the United States from 1798 to 1963. Additionally, the upper floors have served as a boarding house, an officers club, and a privately-operated museum.

The property covers approximately 5,748 square feet and includes 12 private offices. Its location places it near Boston’s City Hall and two MBTA stations, making it highly accessible for both visitors and residents. The building’s proximity to historic landmarks such as the Green Dragon Tavern, Haymarket, and Faneuil Hall situates it within the heart of Boston’s historic district, along the well-known Freedom Trail.

Current Ownership and Sale Details

The house has been owned by the law firm Swartz & Swartz since 1974. The firm’s stewardship helped preserve the building’s structure and historic integrity. Despite its historical prominence, the property was recently assessed by the city of Boston at a value of $1.6 million.

The property is now listed for sale through the real estate company LandVest. The listing company has not publicly disclosed a specific asking price but has indicated interest in attracting prospective buyers who appreciate the house’s historic significance and potential for preservation.

Potential for Development and Preservation

The zoning designation for the property allows for mixed-use development, combining commercial and residential possibilities. This flexibility adds to the appeal for investors or occupants interested in maintaining its historic features while adapting the space for modern needs.

Real estate agents have expressed a desire to find an owner-occupant who would value the property’s rich history and be committed to its ongoing preservation and stewardship. The property’s central location and historic significance make it a highly coveted asset for those interested in Boston’s heritage.

Additional Context and Location Benefits

Located prominently on Boston’s Freedom Trail, the Ebenezer Hancock House is surrounded by historic sites and vibrant city life. Its close proximity to renowned venues and neighborhoods increases its appeal for a variety of uses, from commercial ventures to private residences with historic charm.

In summary, the Ebenezer Hancock House stands as a tangible connection to Boston’s Revolutionary history, now available for new owners to preserve its legacy. With its historic importance, versatile zoning, and location amid Boston’s famed historic district, the property represents a rare opportunity for preservation-minded buyers and developers alike.

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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