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The Sarah Pillsbury Harkness House

Available for Family Vacation, Company Retreat, or School-Year Rental

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The house and grounds

The Pillsbury House, built in 1938 on a secluded three-acre site overlooking the Duck Hill River and Duxbury Marsh, is a rare example of early modern architecture in New England.  Upon entering, the visitor steps into a welcoming hallway. Straight ahead is a spectacular view through the large dining room (seats 12 adults around an oval table), out to the marsh; a butler's pantry leads from the dining room to the fully equipped kitchen.  Down the entrance hall to the left is the spacious living room, which has views out to the marsh and opens out to a sunny patio. Beyond the living room are a screened porch that extends out toward the marsh, and a large bedroom with private bath. From the entrance to the right are a small "telephone room" and then the kitchen. Beyond that are the laundry room, utility room, and a small screened porch. Also from the entrance hall, stairs lead up to the second floor. There are two working fireplaces on the first floor, one in the living room and one in the dining room. The entire first floor - including bedroom and bath - are wheelchair accessible. The second floor contains the master bedroom with private bath and dressing area (which can be also be used as baby's room or a small work space); four other bedrooms; and two other bathrooms. Upon arrangement, renters may have access to a studio apartment above the semi-detached garage. A short walk through a wooded area leads to a private beach, suitable for swimming and canoeing when the tide cooperates. A canoe and kayaks can be made available by arrangement.

Location

Duxbury Massachusetts lies 35 miles south of Boston, close to Cape Cod. Initially a summer pasturing site for the new colony of Plymouth, directly across the bay. Duxbury was soon settled by the Pilgrims, including Myles Standish, John Alden, and Priscilla Alden (née Mullins), in 1624 and incorporated in 1637. It became a center of shipbuilding that lasted until the mid-nineteenth century when ships became too large for the shallow bay. Many historic and beautiful homes from Pilgrim times and the shipbuilding period still exist. Duxbury is a town of choice for families seeking excellent schools, outstanding community services and a pleasant residential atmosphere. It is convenient to Boston, Cambridge, and their many cultural and educational institutions, as well as to the vacationland of Cape Cod.

Rental Options

The Sarah Pillsbury Harkness House is available fully furnished for short periods – a day or two or more – for relaxing and productive retreats by companies, clubs, study groups, or congregations. It is also available for most weeks during the summer – a special family vacation or reunion. Rental for the full school year is also possible. The house has six bedrooms (sleeping up to 12 adults) and four baths. The dining room easily accommodates 12, and there are several cozy sitting areas. For inquiries, see the “contact” selection above.
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