Hyannis Port Historic District facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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H yannis Port Historic District
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Union Chapel
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 Location in Cape Cod
Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | Barnstable, Massachusetts |
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| Area | 100 acres (40 ha) |
| Architectural style | Late 19th And 20th Century Revivals, Bungalow/Craftsman, Late Victorian |
| MPS | Barnstable MRA |
| NRHP reference No. | 87000259 |
| Added to NRHP | November 10, 1987 |
The Hyannis Port Historic District is a special area in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts. It's known for its history as a popular summer vacation spot. This district became a busy resort community in the late 1800s.
The historic district covers about 100 acres (40 hectares). It stretches from Scudder Avenue in the west to Ocean Avenue in the east. To the south, it's bordered by Nantucket Sound. To the north, it meets Grayton, Edge Hill, and Ocean Avenues. This important area was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987. This means it's officially recognized for its historical value.
A Look Back: How Hyannis Port Grew
Before the late 1800s, Hyannis Port was a quiet village. People living there mostly farmed or worked on the sea. But things changed when the Hyannis Land Company was formed in 1871-1872.
This company had big plans to turn Hyannis Port into a major resort. They bought most of the land along the ocean. Then, they divided it into smaller plots for building. They built several hotels and held events to attract visitors. Many summer houses were built for vacationers from far-off cities like Indianapolis and Chicago.
However, the Hyannis Land Company faced money problems. It went out of business in 1879. Even so, the area continued to grow. It wasn't fully developed until the early 1900s.
What Kinds of Houses Are Here?
While a few houses in the district date back to the 1700s, most were built later. They show the popular styles from the late 1800s and early 1900s. These styles include Late 19th and 20th Century Revivals, Bungalow/Craftsman, and Late Victorian designs.
Famous Neighbors: The Kennedy Family
Hyannis Port is most famous for being home to the Kennedy family. Their family compound is a very important historical site. It's even a National Historic Landmark.
Joseph P. Kennedy, Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy bought the main house of the compound in 1926. Over the years, the Kennedy family spent many summers there. It became a well-known place for political and family gatherings.
