Built in 1792 the Beale-Rice House stands proudly. It’s a grand Federal-style residence. Captain Benjamin Beale a sea captain built it. He was also on the committee to build Quincy’s first schoolhouse in 1795. Imagine John Adams his neighbor keeping an eye on the house while Beale was at sea.
The Beale-Rice House remained in the Beale family for generations. It passed to George Washington Beale and then his granddaughters. Caroline Miller Beale the last granddaughter died in 1906. Fred B Rice purchased it in 1907. After his death in 1933 the house stood empty.
Three women physicians bought the Beale-Rice House around 1946. They used it as both a home and their offices. Dr Esther Bartlett one of the physicians was particularly committed to preserving the house. She even negotiated its sale to the National Park Service in 1973. She retained the right to live there until her death in 1989.
The Beale-Rice House is now part of the Adams National Historic Site. It stands as a testament to its history. It’s a beautiful example of Federal-style architecture. It’s a fascinating reminder of the lives lived within its walls. From a sea captain’s home to the offices of pioneering women physicians the Beale-Rice House has a rich story. The house continues to attract visitors who want to learn about its past. They step into a piece of Quincy’s history. They explore the life of this remarkable building.