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Listing broker remarks

The iconic Hooper-Lee-Nichols House, built c.1685 and recognized as the second-oldest home in Cambridge, now seeks its next chapter. The three-story Georgian structure is distinguished by its central chimney and balanced proportions. Set on an expansive 18,012± sq. ft parcel, the house is sited well back from the street with a detached carriage house/garage accessed from Kennedy Road. Today it stands as the headquarters of History Cambridge and though it is currently configured for office use, future owners will have the opportunity to reimagine the interiors as a grand private home. The property is protected by historic preservation measures ensuring its integrity for generations to come. An easement held by the Massachusetts Historical Commission safeguards important interior features, while its location within the Old Cambridge Historic District safeguards the exterior. The Hooper-Lee-Nichols House is an invitation to stewardship—an opportunity to carry forward a 340-year legacy.— LandVest, Inc., Ipswich

Key details

  • 6,449 sq ft
  • 18,012 lot sq ft
  • 10 beds
  • 2.5 baths
  • 1685 built
  • $899 / sq ft
MLS #
7⁠3⁠4⁠9⁠0⁠2⁠7⁠2⁠
Last updated
Address
159 Brattle Street
Town
Cambridge, MA
ZIP
02138
Deed (Bk/Pg)
45133 / 392

Historic designations

National Register
Old Cambridge National Register District
Local Historic District
Old Cambridge Historic District · includes districts.Old_Cambridge, CAM.AM
MACRIS Inventory
CAM.64

What this means for buyers →

Map

Neighborhood: Cambridge

National Historic Landmark

Federally designated as nationally significant — the highest U.S. historic recognition. Section 106 review applies to federal undertakings affecting the property.

National Register

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Owners may qualify for the 20% federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit on certified rehabilitation work.

State Register

Listed on the Massachusetts State Register of Historic Places.

Local Historic District

Inside a Local Historic District. Exterior changes visible from a public way require approval from the local historic district commission.

Local Landmark

Individually designated by the town as a local landmark. Exterior alterations require commission approval.

MACRIS Inventory

Documented in MACRIS, the state historic inventory. Informational only — no regulatory constraints.

Article 85 (Boston)

Subject to Boston Article 85 demolition-delay review, which can pause demolition of buildings 50+ years old for up to 90 days.