The Sawyer Homestead

The Sawyer Homestead stands today as testimony to the vital contributions of the Sawyer family over several centuries of Massachusetts history. Built in the mid-eighteenth century, this homestead has always been owned and maintained by the Sawyer family.
Generations have lived and prospered in this classic New England Cape. Although expanded and improved during its existence, the home had resisted the intrusion of such modern conveniences as central heating and bathroom facilities.

Sawyer family members throughout history have distinguished themselves as innovators and leaders innotably, agriculture, carpentry, architecture, education, and military action.
Easily the most renowned Sawyer was Mary E. Sawyer. Mary was best known as the little girl immortalized in the famous poem "Mary Had A Little Lamb", yet there was so much more to her life.

Mary married Colombus Tyler, and with him oversaw McLean Hospital in Belmont, Massachusetts for many years. She also proved herself to be an ardent preservationist, raising funds for the salvation of Old South Meetinghouse by offering cards that contained fleece from her treasured lamb.

It is truly fitting for us to undertake the rehabilitation of the home of many diverse pursuits, most such a devoted preservationist. We think she'd be touched. The Sawyer Homestead has remained remarkably intact over its long history, but there are issues that need to be addressed immediately. The home itself is structurally sound, but needs extensive repairs to make it more secure from all risks, natural and human. It is our desire to develop the homestead into an interpretive site that would allow the public to experience the rich history of this important Massachusetts family. The Homestead's inclusion in The Ten Most Endangered Historic Resources List speaks to the precarious future the property faces without help. The barn, pictured below, fell victim to arson several years ago, please, let's not let history repeat itself.