kids encyclopedia robot

Thomas–Webster Estate facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Thomas–Webster Estate
Thomas-Webster Estate, Marshfield MA.jpg
Thomas–Webster Estate
Thomas–Webster Estate is located in Massachusetts
Thomas–Webster Estate
Location in Massachusetts
Thomas–Webster Estate is located in the United States
Thomas–Webster Estate
Location in the United States
Location Marshfield, Massachusetts
Built 1832
Architect Preston, William Gibbons
Architectural style Bungalow/Craftsman, Queen Anne
NRHP reference No. 93000206
Added to NRHP April 5, 1993

The Thomas–Webster Estate is a special historic place located at 238 Webster Street in Marshfield, Massachusetts. It's famous because of its connection to Daniel Webster, a very important American politician and statesman. He owned a huge property here, over 1,000 acres (about 400 hectares), and he is buried on the estate with his family.

The main part of the estate started as a farm. Daniel Webster bought this farm from Nathaniel Thomas in 1832. Webster was very interested in farming and new ways to grow crops. He worked hard to make his farm one of the best and most productive in the area. Sadly, Webster's original house burned down in 1878. But a new house was built right on top of its old foundations. The estate still has parts of the landscape that Daniel Webster himself designed. It also includes the spot where his small law office once stood. That law office building is now a National Historic Landmark, but it was moved to another museum property in 1966.

For many years, from the 1950s until 1998, a summer camp was run at the estate. The main house was used as the camp's office. The Thomas–Webster Estate was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1993, which means it's recognized as an important historical site. Today, the town of Marshfield owns the estate, and you can visit it for tours during the summer months.

Exploring the Thomas–Webster Estate

The Thomas–Webster Estate offers a glimpse into the life of a famous American figure and the history of farming. It's a place where you can learn about the past and enjoy the outdoors.

Who Was Daniel Webster?

Daniel Webster (1782–1852) was a very influential American politician. He served as a U.S. Senator and also as the Secretary of State, which is a top government job dealing with other countries. He was known for his powerful speeches and his work to keep the United States united. His love for his Marshfield farm was a big part of his life outside of politics.

The Farm and Its History

Daniel Webster bought the farm in 1832. He was passionate about agriculture and used modern farming methods for his time. He experimented with different crops and livestock, making his farm a model for others. Even after his death, the farm continued to be an important part of the estate's story. The land itself holds many clues about how people lived and worked in the 19th century.

What to See at the Estate

When you visit the Thomas–Webster Estate, you can see the house that was built after the original one burned down. You can also explore the grounds, which still show some of the landscape designs Daniel Webster created. Although his law office building is no longer there, you can see the spot where it once stood. The estate is a peaceful place to walk and imagine what life was like long ago.

Visiting the Estate Today

The Thomas–Webster Estate is a wonderful place to learn about history and enjoy nature. It's open to the public during the summer, offering tours that share stories about Daniel Webster and the estate's past. It's a great way to connect with American history right where it happened.

See also

Images for kids

kids search engine
Thomas–Webster Estate Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.