Cape Cod holds countless stories from America’s earliest days. But finding authentic colonial homes that truly show how people lived centuries ago can be challenging.
Most historic sites have been heavily modernized or reconstructed beyond recognition.
The Hoxie House in Sandwich offers something different. This remarkable 1675 home lets visitors step back in time and experience genuine 17th-century life.
Built by Reverend John Smith and later owned by whaling captain Abraham Hoxie, it stands as one of Cape Cod’s oldest surviving homes.
This guide will show you what makes the it special. You’ll learn about its fascinating history, unique saltbox architecture, and how to plan your visit. Also, we’ll share insider tips to help you make the most of this incredible historical experience.
Disclaimer: Seasonal hours, ticket prices, and special events at the Hoxie House may change annually. Visitors are encouraged to check the official Town of Sandwich website or contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date details before planning their visit.
Hoxie House Location and Official Visitor Information
It is a well-preserved 17th-century saltbox home located in Sandwich, Massachusetts, often celebrated as one of the oldest surviving residences on Cape Cod.
Open seasonally, it offers an immersive look into early colonial life through guided tours, period furnishings, and authentic architectural details.
Visitors can easily access the museum from Sandwich Village, with nearby attractions and scenic waterfront views improving the experience.
Visitor Details You Need to Know:
- Address:18 Water Street, Sandwich, MA 02563, USA
- Seasonal Hours: Typically open late June to early October (check annually for updates).
- Managed By: Town of Sandwich Department of Recreation.
- Official Website: Town of Sandwich – Museums
- Nearby Attractions: Dexter’s Grist Mill, Sandwich Glass Museum, Heritage Museums & Gardens.
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings or during special anniversary events for fewer crowds and added activities.
Historical Background and Ownership
Source: loc.gov
It was built around 1675 by Reverend John Smith, stands as one of the oldest surviving homes on Cape Cod.
Smith, who served as pastor from 1673 to 1689 and as a legislator advocating tolerance for Quakers, made the house a cornerstone of Sandwich’s early community.
The Smith family lived here for nearly two centuries, until 1856. In the mid-19th century, retired whaling captain Abraham Hoxie purchased the property, marking the start of its “Hoxie era.”
The Hoxie family preserved the home through generations, maintaining its colonial character. However, in 1957, the Town of Sandwich acquired the property due to unpaid taxes.
This modification set the stage for its careful restoration, ensuring it would remain a cherished historical landmark for future generations to explore and appreciate.
Know About Architecture & Unique Features
Source: YouTube
Step inside the Hoxie House and you’re greeted by timeless craftsmanship and design that has endured for centuries. From its distinct saltbox silhouette to its authentic colonial details, every element tells a story of early Cape Cod life.
Classic Saltbox Design
It is a textbook example of First Period saltbox architecture, a style popular in New England during the late 17th and early 18th centuries.
Its distinctive asymmetrical roofline slopes down over a rear lean-to addition, creating both extra space and protection from harsh Cape Cod weather.
The 2½-story “half-house” form reflects the modest but functional design choices of early colonial builders.
Colonial Craftsmanship
The house’s structure is supported by gunstock posts, timbers wider at the top for added strength, and massive hand-hewn beams made from pumpkin pine imported from Maine.
Wide plank floors and rough-hewn interior walls show the handwork of skilled 17th-century carpenters.
Authentic Period Details
Many original elements remain intact, including post-and-beam framing, small casement windows fitted with diamond-shaped leaded glass panes, and a massive central hearth that once served as the home’s main heat source and cooking area.
Functional Historic Elements
The interior includes large fireplaces with bake ovens, simple wooden interiors, and a practical room layout designed to serve a family’s needs year-round.
Every element from the steep roof pitch to the placement of the chimney was built to maximize warmth, efficiency, and durability in Cape Cod’s coastal climate.
Hoxie House Restoration & Preservation
The Hoxie House entered a new chapter in 1957 when the Town of Sandwich acquired it due to unpaid taxes. Recognizing its historical significance, the town initiated a careful restoration completed by 1959.
The project rebuilt the fireplaces and chimneys while preserving much of the original structure, ensuring the home’s authenticity remained intact.
Over the decades, additional preservation efforts have kept the property in remarkable condition, allowing visitors to experience one of Cape Cod’s oldest surviving homes much as it would have appeared in the 17th century.
Key Preservation Milestones:
- 1957 – The Town of Sandwich takes ownership of the Hoxie House.
- 1959 – Restoration completed; fireplaces and chimneys rebuilt while retaining original framework and details.
- 2008 – Cedar shake siding replaced with funding from local preservation resources, costing approximately $50,000.
- Ongoing – Recognized as a vital historical landmark and maintained as one of Cape Cod’s oldest surviving homes.
Hoxie House as a Museum Today
The Hoxie House now operates as a seasonal museum managed by the Town of Sandwich, offering visitors a rare glimpse into 17th-century New England life.
Open from late June to early October, it features guided tours that highlight the home’s architecture, original features, and historical significance.
Knowledgeable docents share stories of Reverend John Smith, the Hoxie family, and daily colonial living, bringing the past vividly to life. Special events, such as anniversary celebrations, include free admission days, art displays, author talks, and open-air painting sessions.
Visitors can also purchase combination tickets to explore nearby historic attractions like Dexter’s Grist Mill.
With its well-preserved interiors, authentic period furnishings, and rich narrative, it stands not just as a building, but as an immersive portal into the earliest chapters of Cape Cod’s history.
Hoxie House Significance & Legacy
Beyond its age and charm, it holds an enduring place in Cape Cod’s history. It stands as both a symbol of 17th-century life and a testament to the community’s commitment to preserving its heritage.
A Window into 17th-Century Life:
It provides an authentic look at colonial life, showcasing the craftsmanship, architecture, and daily living of Cape Cod’s earliest settlers.
Historical Importance of the Sandwich:
As one of the oldest homes in the region, it preserves the stories of Reverend John Smith, Captain Abraham Hoxie, and the town’s formative years.
A Model of Preservation:
Its restoration and ongoing upkeep reflect the power of community stewardship in safeguarding local heritage. It stands as proof that dedicated preservation can keep history alive for generations to come.
Continuing Educational Role:
The house remains a living history site, inspiring visitors and educating future generations about the value of preserving the past.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip
- Check seasonal opening dates and hours to ensure the museum is open, as it operates only from late June to early October.
- Arrive early in the day to enjoy a quieter, more relaxed tour without large crowds.
- Join a guided tour to gain deeper historical insights and hear fascinating stories about the house and its former residents.
- Pair your visit with nearby attractions such as Dexter’s Grist Mill or the Sandwich Glass Museum for a full historic day out.
- Bring cash or a credit card for admission fees, souvenirs, or any special event activities.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes since you may explore uneven historic floors and surrounding village paths.
- Allow extra time to explore Sandwich Village, with its scenic streets, shops, and waterfront views.
- Plan your trip around special events like anniversary celebrations for free entry, local art displays, and interactive activities.
The Bottom Line
It stands as more than just an old building; it’s a living testament to Cape Cod’s rich colonial heritage.
From Reverend John Smith’s original vision to the Hoxie family’s careful stewardship, this 1675 home has survived nearly 350 years of history.
Walking through its authentic rooms, you connect directly with the past. The hand-hewn beams, original fireplaces, and saltbox design tell stories that textbooks simply can’t capture.
Each visit offers a genuine glimpse into how our ancestors lived, worked, and thrived on Cape Cod.
Ready to step into history? Plan your visit to the Hoxie House this season. Check out our other Cape Cod historical guides to create your own colonial adventure.
And don’t forget to share your experience, what surprised you most about 17th-century life?
