The William Harlow House in Plymouth, Massachusetts, stands as a remarkable testament to 17th-century colonial life, offering a tangible link to the earliest days of American settlement. This historically significant residence, built in 1677, is not only one of Plymouth’s oldest extant structures but also unique for its construction from the salvaged timbers of the original Pilgrim fort, imbuing it with layers of profound historical meaning.
Stepping inside the William Harlow House is akin to stepping back in time, providing an authentic glimpse into the resourceful spirit and enduring legacy of the Plymouth Colony. Its story is deeply intertwined with the foundational events and figures of early American history.
The Legacy of Sergeant William Harlow
The man behind this historic dwelling was Sergeant William Harlow, a prominent figure in the Plymouth Colony during the latter half of the 17th century. Born in England around 1624, Harlow immigrated to the New World and quickly established himself within the burgeoning community. As a sergeant, he held a position of considerable responsibility and trust within the local militia, a critical role given the ongoing tensions and conflicts of the era, most notably King Philip’s War.
Harlow was known for his resourcefulness and commitment to the colony. His decision to build his family home from the timbers of the dismantled Pilgrim fort speaks volumes about his practicality and respect for the materials and history available to him. He was a man deeply embedded in the civic and defensive fabric of Plymouth, contributing not just to its physical expansion but also to its security and stability.
From Fort to Family Home: A Unique Construction Story
The most compelling aspect of the William Harlow House is its unique origin story, directly linking it to the very foundations of the Plymouth Colony. The house was constructed in 1677 using timbers salvaged from the original Pilgrim fort, which stood on Burial Hill overlooking Plymouth Harbor.
The Pilgrim Fort on Burial Hill
Built between 1621 and 1622, the Pilgrim fort served multiple crucial functions for the fledgling colony. It was a fortified structure designed to protect the settlers from potential threats, a common house for community gatherings, and even a meetinghouse for religious services. Its strategic location on Burial Hill provided an excellent vantage point, vital for early defense and surveillance. This fort symbolized the Pilgrims’ determination to establish a secure foothold in a new and challenging land.
The Aftermath of King Philip’s War
The year 1677 marked a significant turning point in colonial history, particularly following the conclusion of King Philip’s War in 1676. This brutal and devastating conflict between English colonists and Native American inhabitants, primarily led by Metacomet (King Philip), had ravaged New England. With the war’s end, the immediate need for heavily fortified structures like the Pilgrim fort diminished. As a result, the fort was dismantled, its sturdy oak and pine timbers becoming available for reuse.
Sergeant William Harlow received permission to acquire these historic timbers, an opportunity he seized to construct a robust and enduring home for his family. This act of repurposing not only demonstrated ingenuity but also created a direct, physical connection between the Harlow family’s dwelling and the Pilgrims’ earliest defensive efforts. The very beams that once protected the nascent colony now formed the framework of a family’s legacy.
Architectural Glimpses into the 17th Century
The William Harlow House exemplifies the vernacular architecture of New England’s
