The Old Manse
269 Monument Street
Concord, Massachusetts 01742
To visit the Old Manse—a handsome Georgian clapboard built on the banks of the Concord River in 1770—is to re-experience pivotal moments in our nation’s early history. Constructed for patriot minister William Emerson, the upstairs overlooks North Bridge, where the famous battle of April 19, 1775, took place. Later, some of New England’s most esteemed minds found inspiration inside its walls. In the 19th century, Ralph Waldo Emerson and Nathaniel Hawthorne both called the Manse home for a time: Emerson drafted his influential essay “Nature” in an upstairs study. Meanwhile, Hawthorne and his wife, Sophia, started their married life here; the recreated heirloom vegetable garden was originally planted by Henry David Thoreau in honor of the Hawthornes’ wedding.
Tours: We offer a selection of tours for every interest and recommend you book in advance.
After approaching the rolling fields edged by centuries-old stone walls and exploring the grounds, walk the network of easy footpaths linking the Old Manse to the North Bridge and boathouse on the Concord River.
Unearthing the rich history of this National Historic Landmark begins with a selection of guided tours. We recommend booking tours in advance, registration and more information can be found below.
~Flipping the Script ~ The Women of the Old Manse
~Family Friendly Tours of the Old Manse
~American Contradictions ~ Slavery and the American Revolution at the Old Manse
On weekends through April, we offer tours on the hour starting at 11AM, with last tour at 4PM. Advanced registration for public tours is available online. With limited capacity on each tour, we recommend booking your spot online in advance of your visit. Prices vary by tour, please refer to individual listings. Trustees Members are always free!
On the Gold Light: Candlelight Tours of the Manse
Saturday, March 2, 2024, 5-5:45PM
Saturday, March 9, 2024, 5-5:45PM
The Old Manse transforms after dark. This winter, visit the Old Manse for a special candle-lit tour at twilight. Wander the halls and explore the chambers of the Old Manse lit by candles and the setting sun.
Weather-permitting, tours will begin outdoors with an introduction and welcome prior to entering the house. Upon arrival, please check in the book store.
Tour groups are set with a limited capacity and we recommend booking in advance to secure your spot.
Learn More! Guests to the grounds can also enjoy a self-guided tour on your mobile device, accessible here or through the Tour Trustees App available for free through the app store on your iPhone or Android.
Events: https://thetrustees.org/things-to-do/?_event_related_place=1763
Website: https://thetrustees.org/place/the-old-manse/
Image Credits: the trustees.org unless otherwise noted