J. L. BELL is a Massachusetts writer who specializes in (among other things) the start of the American Revolution in and around Boston. He is particularly interested in the experiences of children in 1765-75. He has published scholarly papers and popular articles for both children and adults. He was consultant for an episode of History Detectives, and contributed to a display at Minute Man National Historic Park.

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Monday, July 26, 2010

Dropping in on the Wymans

Back when I was pondering the legend of Hezekiah Wyman, I meant to link to the Francis Wyman House. But since I overlooked the link, I’m giving it a whole posting to itself.

The Francis Wyman House is a historic site on Francis Wyman Road in Burlington, Massachusetts, one of the towns that spun off of Woburn. Documents and archeological evidence imply that the house was built before 1666; dendrochronology might be able to nail that down. It’s considered the oldest surviving structure in Burlington and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Francis Wyman Association, which owns the property, was established in 1899 to gather Wyman descendants and to maintain the house as an educational resource. The association is now raising money to restore the interior and build a period-style barn nearby as a museum, meeting place, and education center. The Massachusetts Historical Association has approved a grant that requires matching funds.

In addition to offering information on the house, the website is a repository of historical and genealogical information about the large Wyman family that populated Woburn in the 17th and 18th centuries.

2 comments:

Heather Wilkinson Rojo said...

Don't forget that the Wyman family reunion is on September 12th! We will meet at the house in the morning, followed by a family association meeting in the afternoon. That is a good time to tour the house and see the progress given to restoration following the fire.

J. L. Bell said...

Just look at those quoins!