Bellingham-Cary House | Chelsea

Information

Landmark: Bellingham-Cary House
City: Chelsea
Country: USA Massachusetts
Continent: North America

Bellingham-Cary House, Chelsea, USA Massachusetts, North America

The Bellingham-Cary House is a historic house museum located in Chelsea, Massachusetts, USA.

This structure preserves a significant example of early colonial domestic architecture and its associated historical context.

Visual Characteristics

The Bellingham-Cary House is a 2.5-story colonial saltbox structure. Its exterior is clad in weathered clapboard, painted a muted grey. The roof is steeply pitched and asymmetrical, characteristic of the saltbox design, with a prominent central chimney. Window openings are relatively small and feature multi-pane sash windows. The foundation is constructed of rough-hewn fieldstone.

Location & Access Logistics

The house is situated at 314 Washington Avenue in Chelsea, Massachusetts. It is approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) east of downtown Boston. Access by car is via I-93 South, taking Exit 17 for Boston/Everett Avenue, then following signs for Washington Avenue. Limited street parking is available on Washington Avenue and adjacent streets. Public transport options include the MBTA Bus Route 111, which stops within a 0.2km walk of the house at the intersection of Washington Avenue and Third Street.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Bellingham-Cary House was constructed circa 1700. It is believed to have been built by Richard Bellingham, a prominent colonial figure, though it later passed to the Cary family. The house represents a typical dwelling of a moderately prosperous colonial family of the period. Its construction materials are locally sourced wood and stone, reflecting the building practices of early colonial New England.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can participate in guided tours of the house, which focus on colonial life, architecture, and the families who resided there. Specific rooms are preserved and furnished to reflect different historical periods. Demonstrations of colonial crafts or domestic activities may be offered on select dates.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restroom facilities are available on-site. Limited shade is provided by mature trees on the property. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in the vicinity. No food vendors are located directly at the house; however, commercial establishments are present along Washington Avenue within a 0.5km radius.

Best Time to Visit

The house is open for tours on specific days and times, typically weekends. For optimal interior lighting during visits, late morning or early afternoon hours are recommended. Weather considerations are minimal for interior tours, but exterior grounds are best explored during drier months, generally from April through October.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is the house's survival through multiple fires that affected the surrounding area of Chelsea. Local lore suggests that the house's sturdy construction and the strategic placement of its chimney contributed to its resilience.