Elbridge Gerry House (1742)
At 44 Washington Street in Marblehead, opposite the Old North Church, is a house, built sometime between 1730 and 1742, where Elbridge Gerry was born and spent his early years. Elbridge Gerry (1744-1814), a statesman and diplomat, was a signer of the Declaration of Independence and was one of three men who refused to sign the Constitution because it did not contain a Bill of Rights. Gerry later served as Governor of Massachusetts (1810-1812) and Vice-President (1813-1814) under James Madison. The process of gerrymandering, or drawing electoral districts to favor a particular party, is named for him due to a redrawing of districts in Massachusetts during his term as governor. In the 1820s, a third floor and Greek Revival entrance were added to the house.
What’s happening with the house?
To whom it may concern,
My name is Linwood John Gerry Jr. Is this house currently still there and standing?I would like to visit this home of my ancestors as I am a direct descendant of the family. Is this building a landmark?
Hello……my husband is also a direct descendant of Eldridge Gerry l…..his grandson Eldridge Gerry lll had two Lakota wives and many children and lived in outside of Denver Colorado……..there are many great grand children from this family….any other family members out there, would love to hear from you! mineese40@hotmail.com
Does anyone know if this house was turned into an old age home or boarding home sometime in the 1890s of 1900s? I believe my great-great grandfather lived there
I live in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. I am a descendant of Elbridge Gerry, We have the family bible.