Mary Hemenway’s Beacon Hill Mansion

Augustus Hemenway commissioned architect George Minot Dexter to design the house in 1850. The large brownstone building had subtle elements of Greek, Renaissance, and Egyptian Revival styles, but the exterior was understated, letting size speak for itself. In contrast, the grand interiors were finished with elaborate woodwork, elegantly furnished, and soon filled with objects and art pieces curated by Mary. With its spacious rooms, tall ceilings, and large windows, Augustus’s modern mansion made a visible statement about his considerable wealth and power. After his death, Mary continued to live there and even operated some of her charitable endeavors out of the property.

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