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Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden: A Glimpse into Portsmouth's Past

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Step back in time at this Georgian mansion and explore the lives of a prominent colonial family and the enslaved who lived there.

The Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden, a National Historic Landmark in Portsmouth, NH, offers a captivating journey into the lives of a prominent colonial family and the enslaved people who lived and worked on the property. Built between 1760 and 1763, the Georgian mansion showcases period furnishings and stunning gardens, reflecting over 150 years of family history.

A brief summary to Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden

Local tips

  • Check the Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden's Facebook page or website for updates on special events, free admission days, and any changes to the schedule.
  • Plan your visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience of the house and gardens.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking through the house and gardens.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden is located in the heart of historic Portsmouth, making it easily accessible on foot from many downtown locations. From Market Square, head east on Congress Street, then turn right onto Market Street. The Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden will be on your left. Allow approximately 5-10 minutes to walk from Market Square. No costs are associated with this final approach.

  • Public Transport

    The Portsmouth bus station is approximately a 15-minute walk to the Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden. Head south on Market St from the station, and you will find the destination at 154 Market St on your left. A single fare on Portsmouth Public Transit is $1.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Portsmouth. A ride from the Portsmouth bus station or Market Square to the Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare before you begin your trip.

  • Driving

    If driving, take Exit 7 from Interstate 95 and follow the signs for downtown Portsmouth. The Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden is located at 154 Market Street. On-street metered parking is available, but can be difficult to find, especially during the summer. Meters are in operation from 9 AM to 8 PM, Monday through Saturday, and from 12 noon to 8 PM on Sunday. The High Hanover Garage and the Foundry Place Garage are nearby parking alternatives. Metered street parking costs $1-2 per hour. Garage parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $2-3 per hour.

Discover more about Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden

The Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden stands as a testament to Portsmouth's rich history, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of a prominent mercantile family and those they enslaved. Built in 1763 by John Moffatt, one of the wealthiest colonists in New Hampshire, for his son Samuel, the house is a superb example of Georgian architecture. Over the years, the house was home to a variety of individuals, including William Whipple, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. The house is part of the Black Heritage Trail, recognizing the enslaved men and women who lived and worked there. Visitors can explore twelve period-furnished rooms, showcasing 150 years of domestic life. Among the artifacts on display are Whipple's sword and other personal items. The grounds feature a magnificent garden, reflecting the Colonial Revival style with portions of Alexander H. Ladd's design and plantings. A notable feature is the horse chestnut tree, planted around 1776 by William Whipple using seeds brought from Philadelphia. Today, the Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden is owned and operated by the National Society of Colonial Dames in New Hampshire, preserving this important piece of American history for future generations.

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