Lyman Estate, Waltham, Massachusetts

The Lyman Estate, "The Vale", was established in 1793 by Boston merchant Theodore Lyman. It consisted originally of the mansion, greenhouses, and 400 acres of grounds, gardens, woodlands, a deer park, and a working farm. One of the finest examples of a Federal period country estate in America, it was the Lyman family's summer residence for over 150 years. Today, the mansion, greenhouse complex, and 37 acres of land are owned and maintained by the Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities.

The greenhouses are a reminder of the fascination with horticulture prevalent among wealthy 19th century Bostonians. Typical of structures which adorned landed estates in the 19th and early 20th centuries, they shelter grapevines planted in 1870, 100-year-old camellia trees, and other exotic plants. They are open year-round, Monday - Saturday, 9:30 to 4:00. Visitors may purchase plants propagated from the collection. Group tours can be arranged through the horticulturist.

The mansion is open by appointment for group tours. It is also available for rental for weddings, private parties, and corporate events.
781-893-7232 - 185 Lyman Street

Waltham Community home page
Comments and suggestions welcome.
This is not the official web site of the Lyman Estate. To request literature, inquire on prices and availability, etc., please call 781-893-7232.
All photographs Copyright 1996 by Scott Shurr.
All rights reserved. No photographs may be used without my permission. I charge a fee for commercial use of photographs. Direct inquiries to me at sshurr@gmail.com. Created: April, 1996. Updated: 23 October 2003 ...always under construction!