Second Harrison Gray Otis house at 85 Mt. Vernon Street in Boston designed by Charles Bulfinch

Harrison Gray Otis House Ii

Harrison Gray Otis House II: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Boston Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

A visit to the Second Harrison Gray Otis House II in Boston’s historic Beacon Hill is a journey into the heart of America’s Federal era—a time of architectural innovation, political transformation, and urban development. Designed by Charles Bulfinch, the nation’s first native-born professional architect, this 1801–1802 mansion at 85 Mount Vernon Street is a hallmark of refined Federal style and an enduring symbol of Boston’s early aspirations. Whether you are captivated by early American architecture, the Otis family’s political legacy, or the rich context of Boston’s historic neighborhoods, the Otis House II promises an immersive and educational experience (Historic New England; SAH Archipedia; Boston Landmarks Commission).

This guide provides thorough visitor information—hours, tickets, accessibility, and travel tips—alongside historical context and architectural insight. The Otis House II, open seasonally for guided tours, stands as a must-see among Boston’s premier historic sites.

Second Harrison Gray Otis house at 85 Mt. Vernon Street in Boston, Massachusetts

Antique ornamental mantel in Harrison Gray Otis House, Boston, circa 1895-1905

Origins and Construction
Architectural Significance and Style
Visiting Information: Hours, Location, and Tickets
Accessibility and Travel Tips
The Otis Family Legacy
Ownership and Adaptation Over Time
Preservation and Historical Research
Political and Social Context
Boston’s Urban Development and the Otis House
Notable Features and Artifacts
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Media
Related Articles and Resources
Conclusion and Call to Action

Origins and Construction

The Second Harrison Gray Otis House was built in 1801–1802 for Harrison Gray Otis—lawyer, politician, and real estate developer—and his wife, Sally Foster Otis. Designed by Charles Bulfinch, the house was the second of three Otis residences and was intended as both a family home and a venue for entertaining Boston’s social and political elite (Historic New England; SAH Archipedia). Its construction coincided with Otis’s rise in public life and Beacon Hill’s transformation into a fashionable residential district.

Architectural Significance and Style

Otis House II is a textbook example of the Federal style, characterized by classical proportions, symmetry, and restrained ornamentation. Bulfinch’s design features a red brick façade laid in Flemish bond, elegantly proportioned sash windows, a central fanlit entrance, and delicate woodwork (SAH Archipedia). The interior, with high ceilings and ornate plasterwork, reflects both the Otis family’s wealth and Bulfinch’s mastery.

The house’s integration with the Beacon Hill neighborhood and its harmonious relationship with surrounding rowhouses demonstrate Bulfinch’s urban vision and the neighborhood’s historic character (Beacon Hill Architectural Commission).

Visiting Information: Hours, Location, and Tickets

Location: 85 Mount Vernon Street, Boston, MA 02108, Beacon Hill
Visiting Hours: The Otis House II is open seasonally from June through October, with guided tours on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, on the hour from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Always check the Historic New England website for the latest schedule.
Tickets: Adults $12, seniors $10, students $8, children under 6 free, Historic New England members free. Advance booking recommended, especially during peak periods.

Please note: Otis House II is a private residence outside of tour hours; only the guided tour seasonally opens its interiors to the public.

Accessibility and Travel Tips

Accessibility: The main floor is wheelchair accessible. Upper floors are accessible only by stairs. Visitors requiring accommodations should contact the museum in advance (Historic New England: Accessibility).
Facilities: Restroom facilities are limited; no on-site café or gift shop, but amenities are available nearby in the West End.
Getting There: Public transportation is recommended (MBTA Red Line to Charles/MGH or Park Street). Parking in Beacon Hill is scarce. Comfortable shoes are advised for exploring cobblestone streets.

The Otis Family Legacy

Harrison Gray Otis was a leading figure in early American politics—serving in Congress, the Senate, and as Boston’s third mayor. His wife, Sally Foster Otis, was celebrated for her hospitality and influence in Boston society. The Otis family’s occupancy was brief but impactful, setting a standard for Beacon Hill’s development and social life (Historic New England).

Ownership and Adaptation Over Time

Following the Otis family, the house passed to merchant John Osborn and later became a boarding house as Boston’s demographics shifted. These changes mirror Boston’s evolution from elite enclave to a more diverse urban environment. The house’s dual interpretation—as a Federal-era mansion and a 19th-century boarding house—offers visitors layered insights into the city’s social history (The Historic New England Project).

Preservation and Historical Research

Otis House II survived urban renewal through the efforts of preservationists and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as a Boston Landmark (National Park Service). Restoration has focused on authenticity, using original materials and period-appropriate techniques. Visitors can see original or closely matched wallpapers, furnishings, and artifacts (Historic New England).

As a Federalist, Harrison Gray Otis was central to political debates, from the Alien and Sedition Acts to the Missouri Compromise (Otis House: Harrison’s Politics). The house was a venue for elite gatherings, reflecting the social and civic networks of the era.

Boston’s Urban Development and the Otis House

The construction of Otis House II marked Beacon Hill’s transformation from pastureland to an elegant residential district. Bulfinch’s designs and Otis’s investments were foundational to this change, influencing Boston’s architectural identity (Historic New England).

Notable Features and Artifacts

Inside, visitors will find period mirrors, a looking glass, desk and bookcase, and a punch bowl, all indicative of early 19th-century domestic life. Inventories provide a window into the era’s material culture (Historic New England).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I tour Otis House II’s interior?
A: Yes, during the seasonal tour period (June–October, Fri–Sun, 11 AM–4 PM). Advance tickets are recommended.

Q: Is the house wheelchair accessible?
A: The main floor is accessible; upper floors are stair-only. Contact the museum in advance for assistance.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Non-flash photography is permitted; please confirm with your guide.

Q: How do I purchase tickets?
A: Online via Historic New England or on-site (subject to availability).

Visuals and Media

Virtual tours and high-quality images—such as views of the brick façade, grand entry hall, and formal parlors—are available on the Historic New England website. Descriptive alt text is provided for accessibility.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Second Harrison Gray Otis House II is a cornerstone of Boston’s Federal-era heritage—architecturally, historically, and culturally. Plan your visit to experience its elegant interiors, learn about the Otis family, and explore Beacon Hill’s storied streets. For the latest visiting hours, ticketing, and special events, consult the Historic New England website, and consider downloading the Audiala app for up-to-date guides and curated tours. Follow Historic New England on social media for news and insights.