Remember the Siege of Boston. General John Thomas needed a headquarters. The Dillaway-Thomas House offered him that prime location.
Welcome to the Dillaway-Thomas House. It stands as one of Roxbury’s oldest buildings. Built around 1750, it holds stories of revolution and community. Originally, it served as a parsonage. Reverend Oliver Peabody of the First Church of Roxbury initiated its construction. After Peabody passed away, Reverend Amos Adams completed the house.
Let’s step back to 1775. The American Revolutionary War was raging. The Dillaway-Thomas House became General Thomas’ headquarters. Its hilltop location offered a strategic advantage. From its windows, officers could observe Boston and the British forces. They witnessed the Battle of Bunker Hill. They saw the conflagration of Charlestown unfold. General George Washington may have even met with his officers here.
General Thomas played a crucial role in the war. He led 3,000 men to fortify Dorchester Heights. They used pre-made fortifications and cannons. Colonel Henry Knox brought these cannons from Fort Ticonderoga. They fortified the area in a single night. This forced the British to evacuate Boston. The siege ended just weeks later.
After the war, the Dillaway family acquired the house. Charles K. Dillaway was a respected educator. He later became the superintendent of Roxbury schools. Charles and Martha Dillaway used the house as a women’s day school. It also served as a home for international students.
In 1927, the house faced demolition. The Roxbury Historical Society and local residents intervened. They fought to save and preserve the Dillaway-Thomas House. In the 1930s, it transformed into a museum. It became the headquarters for Roxbury Heritage State Park in 1992.
The Dillaway-Thomas House continues to serve the community. It hosts exhibits and meetings. Many of these events focus on Black history and issues. Renovations have occurred over the past century. These renovations ensured its survival for future generations. The Dillaway-Thomas House shows how Boston’s history extends beyond downtown. It reminds us that every neighborhood has important stories to tell. The state’s investment here serves as an inspiration. Historic cities across the country can learn from this preservation.
Today, as you stand before the Dillaway-Thomas House, consider its rich history. It has been a home, a headquarters, a school, and a museum. It stands as a testament to Roxbury’s enduring spirit.