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As a Cambridge real estate agent, the city squares of Cambridge, Somerville and Medford and the town centers of Arlington, Watertown and Belmont, Massachusetts are my home turf. And as a lifelong New Englander who’s lived within twenty miles of Boston most of my life, I can introduce you to other nearby towns as we search for your new home. If you’re planning to sell your home in Cambridge, MA or nearby you’ll find plenty of info about the home selling process here too. Questions? Send me an email or call me at 617-504-1737.

Count Rumford House In Woburn

Count Rumford House - Birthplace and Museum

Count Rumford House - Birthplace and Museum

Count Rumford House in Woburn   Driving by the red Colonial on North Street in Woburn I couldn’t help but notice the large sign on the house’s wood shingled roof – “Count Rumford Birthplace“.

Count Rumford House Museum

Like many, I knew of Count Rumford from the Rumford fireplace but had no idea he had local connections. Turns out there’s lots more to know.

Benjamin Thompson, who was to become Count Rumford, was born here at 90 Elm Street in Woburn, his grandfather’s house, in 1753.  The house is a National Historic Landmark  and is owned and maintained by the Rumford Historical Association.

This isn’t a house museum per se though old house enthusiasts will appreciate seeing the well preserved Colonial which dates from about 1714.  The Rumford Historical Association was formed in 1877 in an effort to save and maintain the house. That’s very early for a historic preservation effort and a testament to Rumford’s influence and reputation.

Benjamin Thompson must have been a very charismatic man as well as a brilliant one.  His list of accomplishments is long and many of his successes came at a very young age.   A Loyalist, he moved to England in 1776.  There he prospered –  serving in the military, gaining reknown for his scientific work, and receiving several honors – he was knighted in 1781 and became a Count of the Holy Roman Empire in 1792.

The Count Rumford House is a treasure trove of information about the colorful Count Rumford and related memorabilia.  There are a number of models of Rumford’s scientific inventions and the house is a fun visit for kids who appreciate science or history. You’ll also get an interesting overview of Woburn history during the tour. 

Count Rumford Museum and Birthplace is usually open from 1 to 4:30 pm on Saturday and Sunday. It’s a good idea to call ahead and confirm. The phone number is 781-933-4976.   Admission is free but donations are welcomed.

More House Museum Mondays

Emerson House in Concord

 

Count Rumford House is located at 90 Elm Street, Woburn, MA  01801

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