Longfellow House-Washington's Headquarters National Historic Site | Cambridge MA

The Longfellow House–Washington's Headquarters National Historic Site is a historic house museum located in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

This structure served as the headquarters for General George Washington during the Siege of Boston in 1775-1776.

Visual Characteristics

The house is a Georgian-style brick structure, measuring approximately 60 feet by 40 feet. It stands three stories high with a gambrel roof. The exterior brickwork is a uniform red, with white trim around the windows and cornices. The main entrance features a pedimented portico.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is located at 105 Brattle Street in Cambridge, MA. It is approximately 3 miles west of downtown Boston. Public parking is available on Brattle Street and adjacent side streets, though availability can be limited. The MBTA bus routes 71 and 73 stop within a 0.2-mile walk of the house.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The house was constructed between 1759 and 1760 by John Vassall III. It was later purchased by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in 1837 and remained in his family until it was designated a National Historic Site. During the Revolutionary War, it was occupied by General George Washington from July 1775 to April 1776.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the rooms occupied by George Washington and the Longfellow family. The site offers ranger-led tours detailing the history of the house and its occupants. The grounds include a garden that can be explored independently.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on the first floor of the house. Limited shade is provided by mature trees on the property. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in the area. No food vendors are located on-site; however, commercial establishments are present along Brattle Street.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography of the exterior is during the late afternoon when the sun illuminates the brickwork. The site is open year-round, with spring and fall offering moderate temperatures for exploring the grounds. Interior tours are subject to operating hours.

Facts & Legends

During Washington's occupation, the house was the site of significant strategic planning for the Continental Army. A notable historical detail is that the house was one of the largest and most elegant homes in Cambridge at the time of its construction.

Nearby Landmarks

• Harvard University (0.8km Northeast)
• Harvard Square (0.9km Northeast)
• Mount Auburn Cemetery (1.5km Southwest)
• Longfellow Bridge (3.5km East)