Last updated: September 19, 2022
Thing to Do
Visit Broadhearth Visitor Center
NPS Photo
The Iron Works House, home to the Broadhearth Visitor Center, is the only structure at Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site that survives from the 1600s. The company agent may have lived in it while the iron works was in operation, but its date of construction is unknown. The earliest recorded occupant, Samuel Appleton Jr., bought the Saugus Iron Works in 1676 (after it closed) and lived in the house from 1681 to 1688.
By the early 1800s the house had been greatly altered from its original state and, over the years, was home to many occupants. A photographer named Wallace Nutting bought the house in 1915 to use as a tourist attraction, a studio for colonial-themed photography, and to showcase his collection of antique furniture. He restored the house to what he thought it would have looked like in the 1600s, giving it the appearance we see today.
Staff at the Visitor Center can provide information on the local area, nearby parks, and site information relating to tours and other services.
Through Ocotber 30th, staff will open the visitor center Wednesday through Sunday as available. Due to low staffing levels we are unable to commit to set visitor center hours. Park grounds and restrooms are currently open everyday.
By the early 1800s the house had been greatly altered from its original state and, over the years, was home to many occupants. A photographer named Wallace Nutting bought the house in 1915 to use as a tourist attraction, a studio for colonial-themed photography, and to showcase his collection of antique furniture. He restored the house to what he thought it would have looked like in the 1600s, giving it the appearance we see today.
Staff at the Visitor Center can provide information on the local area, nearby parks, and site information relating to tours and other services.
Through Ocotber 30th, staff will open the visitor center Wednesday through Sunday as available. Due to low staffing levels we are unable to commit to set visitor center hours. Park grounds and restrooms are currently open everyday.
Details
Duration
30-60 Minutes
Activity
Shopping
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Reservations
No
Accessibility Information
The building has a narrow doorway that can accommodate wheelchairs and a wooden flat floor. There are numerous shelves for merchandise that need to be navigated around.
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