William Clapp House facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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William Clapp House
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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William Clapp House
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 Location in Massachusetts
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| Location | Boston, MA |
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| Built | 1765 |
| Architectural style | Colonial, Federal |
| Part of | Clapp Houses (ID74000911) |
| Added to NRHP | May 2, 1974 |
The William Clapp House is a very old and important house located in Dorchester, Massachusetts. It was built in 1806 and is now the main office for the Dorchester Historical Society. Inside, you can find many interesting things from the society's collections, like furniture from the 1800s and other items that tell the story of the local area. This house is one of two "Clapp Houses" that are special enough to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means they are officially recognized as important historical sites.
Who Was William Clapp?
The William Clapp House was built in 1806 for William Clapp and his new wife. William Clapp was born on March 3, 1779, and passed away on February 29, 1860. His father, Captain Lemuel Clap, built another famous house nearby called the Captain Lemuel Clap House. William Clapp followed in his father's footsteps and ran the biggest tannery in Dorchester. A tannery is a place where animal hides (skins) are turned into leather. This was a very important business back then!
Clapp's Favorite Pear
Later in his life, William Clapp spent a lot of time on his farm. He loved to grow different kinds of pears. He became famous for developing many new types of pears. The most well-known pear he created was called "Clapp's Favorite." He first developed this special pear in 1820. By 1860, it was being sold widely. Even today, "Clapp's Favorite" pears are still grown and sold in many places. It's amazing that a pear developed so long ago is still popular!
