Historical Lexington Homes Where History Was Made

Lexington is filled with an expansive history that has transcended generations. Explore historical homes in Lexington that have made an impact on American History.

Hancock-Clarke House, Setting The Scene For Paul Revere

The Hancock-Clarke House was built in 1698 by Rev. Col. John Hancock I, the grandfather of the Patriot John Hancock. In the year 1775, Paul Revere arrived on horseback to warn Patriot John Hancock and Sam Adams that “The British are coming.” John Hancock and Sam Adams were guests at the Hancock-Clarke House on the night of April 18, 1775. 

The house began as a small one-and-a-half-story gambrel-roofed framed ell containing a living room or kitchen, study, and two chambers. The “new” two-and-a-half-story living space was added in 1734. 

In 1896, the Lexington Historical Society purchased the house and moved it across the street to save it from demolition. The society moved it back to its original location which now operates as a museum. The house was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1971. You can purchase tickets to tour the home and garden at the Lexington Historical Society website.

Morrell-Dana House, The Famous Greek Revival Home

Obadiah Parker built this home in 1800 where it was remodeled into a Greek revival style in 1840. Couple Elizabeth Morrell and Otis Dana lived in this home; they were married by Ralph Waldo Emerson in the Follen Church. During their residence, Morrell and Dana entertained many locals and some historians say that Marquis de Lafayette dined here when he came to visit in 1824. Marquis de Lafayette was a French Aristocrat who made his impact in America when he fought in the Continental Army against the British in the American Revolution.  

Nathaniel Mulliken House, A Memory Of April 19, 1775 

The Nathaniel Mulliken House was the home of the Mulliken family during the Revolutionary War. The Mullikens were first a family of clock and cabinet makers who moved to Lexington from Newburyport in 1751. Tragically, the British burned the family’s home and shop during their retreat back to Boston on April 19, 1775. Eventually, the family moved to Raymond Tavern at 1377 Massachusetts Avenue and then built this new home that we call the Nathaniel Mulliken House across the street from that location in 1780. Now it is a private residence and not available for tours. However, it is still an interesting historical home to see from the outside.