As one of the original 13 colonies, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is home to an abundance of historical sites. There’s the Paul Revere House (c. 1680) which happens to be the oldest building in Boston, the House of the Seven Gables (c. 1668) in Salem, and the Old Ship Church (c. 1681) in Hingham, just to name a few. But what about one of the oldest houses in the U.S.? Well, Massachusetts is home to the oldest timber frame house in America, and visiting is a fascinating look at early American architecture.

Located in Dedham, Massachusetts, The Fairbanks House is considered the oldest surviving timber frame house in America. Built circa 1637, the house is nearly 400 years old.
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When Jonathan Fairbanks and his wife Grace and their six children arrived in the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1633, they became founding members of Dedham.
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The Fairbanks were given 12 acres of land and they constructed their timber frame home between 1637 and 1641. Today, The Fairbanks House is considered the oldest surviving timber frame house in America.
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Jonathan Fairbanks had a career making spinning wheels. The more money he made, the more he added to his home and he was even able to hire servants.
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The house remained in the Fairbanks family for several generations. In 1904, remaining members of the Fairbanks created a foundation in order to preserve the home.
The Fairbanks House/Facebook
For over 100 years, The Fairbanks House has served as a historic house museum open for tours. Tours last 50 minutes and reservations are available Friday, Saturday, and Sunday between May 1 and October 31.
Rebecca Clingenpeel/Google Local
Visiting the oldest timber frame house in America is absolutely fascinating especially if you enjoy learning about early American architecture.
Tracy Carner/Google Local

Have you ever visited the oldest timber frame house in America? What are some of your favorite historical sights in Massachusetts? Tell us in the comments. To learn more about The Fairbanks House and to plan your visit, head to the official website and follow the Facebook page for updates.

Keep in mind that The Fairbanks House is open seasonally between early May and the end of October.

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