Duxbury Rural & Historical Society
479 Washington Street
Duxbury, Massachusetts 02331
Did you know that the Duxbury Rural Historical Society owns and maintains 36 acres of wooded land on both sides of Depot Street? Lapham Woods are under a permanent conservation restriction, meaning the land can never be developed. It is a protected “green space” for Duxbury. In an effort to make this land more accessible, a team of volunteers and members of the Wildland Trust recently expanded and amended the trail to create a beautiful loop for pedestrians, hikers, bikers and dog walkers. Through this trailblazing effort, volunteers created 1.36 miles of trails with parking on Prior Farm Road and Surplus Street. We hope you take advantage of this wonderful Green Space right in the center of Duxbury.
Lapham Woods History
Purchased in 1931 and 1952, Lapham Woods includes approximately 36 acres of land located on either side of the corner at Tremont and Depot Streets. This iconic stretch of wooded property protects the scenic approach to Town Hall and the First Parish Church buildings. The name, Lapham, is taken from one of the selling parties. The parcel includes on the east side the Smith Family tomb, which is maintained by the Cemetery Department. The Smith family farm was located across Depot Street. Members of the family, including Benjamin Smith, Sr., Benjamin Smith, Jr., and their wives, were buried in the crypt there. Smith was a master mariner and captain of some of the largest ships in the Weston fleet.
Update on Historic Houses: https://duxburyhistory.org/visit-historic-houses/
Pilgrim Legacy: https://duxburyhistory.org/pilgrim-history-duxbury-massachusetts/
Private Tours and Programs: https://duxburyhistory.org/private_tours/
Download your free printable brochure here: Family Tour Brochure. We recommend that you print your brochure “double sided” for best effect. The DRHS supports all CDC-recommended guidelines for “social distancing.” Please be safe.
Events: https://duxburyhistory.org/events/
Duxbury Online Learning: https://duxburyhistory.org/online-learning/
Link to website: https://duxburyhistory.org
