Perkins Homestead, Historic homestead in Newcastle, United States
The Perkins Homestead is a historic property spanning 57 acres along the Damariscotta River in Newcastle, featuring a brick house, barn, walled garden, and forested areas. The buildings sit on sloped ground that descends toward the river, creating an open landscape dotted with trees and fields.
The homestead developed during early American settlement and became the residence of the Perkins family, most notably Frances Perkins who lived there. The site gained National Historic Landmark status in 2014 in recognition of her pioneering role as the first woman to serve in a U.S. Cabinet.
The Homestead Barn displays an exhibition about Frances Perkins and her work for social justice, featuring historic photographs and personal items that show her life beyond the public role. Walking through the exhibition, you get a sense of who she was as a person and how her ideas shaped labor and welfare policies.
The grounds are open from sunrise to sunset for exploring the trails and different areas of the property. The self-guided exhibition in the barn is available Wednesday through Saturday, allowing you to visit at your own pace and learn about the homestead's history.
The property contains archaeological remains of an 18th-century garrison house and a family cemetery where Frances Perkins and her relatives are buried. These burial sites offer a personal connection to the land and show how deeply the family was rooted to this place.
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