This tour takes you to picturesque North Street, one of the oldest streets in Plymouth. It includes two houses built in the same time period, but of differing social status, providing a sense of the way 18th century residents lived in Plymouth. The tour ends at the Plymouth Center for the Arts, where you can peruse the ever changing galleries.
After the tour, head up to downtown for a bite to eat or a little shopping, or down to the waterfront for the same.
Mayflower Society House
The Mayflower Society House was built in 1754 by Edward Winslow, great-grandson of the Pilgrim Edward Winslow. It sits high above the waterfront and is arguably the grandest building downtown.
It’s housed a number of influential families through the centuries, and also served as a Red Cross headquarters during World War II.
Both outside and inside, this is a beautiful home. In addition to touring inside, be sure to wander about the Colonial Revival Gardens.Â
As of this writing, the house has been closed to tours for renovations, so be sure to check the website for updates. Even if you can’t get inside, do come by to admire the house and wander the gardens, which are still open.
Spooner House
Built in the mid-18th century, the Spooner House was occupied by the Spooner family until the 1950s – that’s some serious family history. James Spooner was the last member of the family to occupy the house. In 1954 he bequeathed the home and its generations of possessions as a museum.
One of the oldest structures on historic North Street, it is said to be haunted, and so of course is part of the local ghost tours. The house has daytime tours, but limited seasonal hours, so check the website for updates.
Attraction
Plymouth Center for the Arts used to be an annual art show in Brewster Gardens, called the Plymouth Outdoor Art Show. In 2008 it found its permanent home at the restored 1902 Russell Library gallery and the 18th century Lindens building on North Street, right in the heart of historic Plymouth center. The two buildings are artfully (heh) connected to create a cohesive complex, despite the distinct styles.
This is a very active art center – visit the ever changing galleries, take a class to learn or enhance an art skill, or attend one of the several events through the year.Â