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The Hancock-Clarke House is a historic colonial-era residence located in Lexington, Massachusetts, USA.

It served as the parsonage for the Lexington First Parish Church and played a significant role in the early events of the American Revolution.

Visual Characteristics

The house is a two-and-a-half-story Georgian-style structure constructed primarily of wood. Its exterior is painted white with dark green shutters. The roof is a gambrel design, and a central chimney stack is a prominent feature. The windows are multi-paned, typical of 18th-century architecture.

Location & Access Logistics

The Hancock-Clarke House is situated at 34 Gray Street in Lexington, MA. It is approximately 12 miles west of Boston. Access from Boston is via Massachusetts Route 2 West to Route 128 South, then taking the exit for Route 2A East towards Lexington. Gray Street is a local road off Route 2A. Parking is available on-site in a designated lot. The MBTA bus route 76 stops within a 0.5km walk of the house.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Hancock-Clarke House began in 1737. It was built as the parsonage for Reverend John Hancock, father of John Hancock, a prominent figure in the American Revolution. The house was designed to accommodate the minister and his family, as well as serve as a center for community and religious life. It was later owned by Reverend Jonas Clarke.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the preserved rooms of the house, which contain period furnishings and artifacts. Exhibits detail the lives of the Hancock and Clarke families and the events of April 19, 1775, when militia gathered here before the Battle of Lexington. The house is part of the Minuteman National Historical Park visitor experience.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Limited shade is provided by mature trees on the property. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good in this area. No food vendors are located directly at the house; dining options are available in the nearby Lexington town center.

Best Time to Visit

The house is open for tours from April through October. Mid-morning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) and mid-afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM) offer good lighting conditions for interior photography. The months of May, June, and September typically provide pleasant weather for visiting.

Facts & Legends

It is said that Paul Revere and William Dawes stopped at the Hancock-Clarke House on their midnight ride to warn residents of the approaching British troops. Reverend Jonas Clarke famously kept his musket by the fireplace, ready to defend his home and community.

Nearby Landmarks

• Lexington Battle Green (0.3km West)
• Buckman Tavern (0.4km West)
• Minuteman National Historical Park Visitor Center (2.5km West)
• Follen Church (1.2km Northeast)
• Old Burying Ground (0.3km West)