Penniman, Edward, House and Barn
S of Eastham at Fort Hill and Governor Prence Rds., Eastham, MAThe art of whaling originated on Cape Cod, and the art and business reached their peak in the mid-19th century. Like most whaling captains, Penniman operated out of New Bedford, being in charge of several vessels during his long lifetime. He chose to retire in Eastham and built this house in 1867. Penniman undertook whaling voyages to both southern and Arctic latitudes, being absent for some 4 years at times.
Penniman was born in 1831, one of 11 children. He went to sea at eleven. His fourth whaling voyage took place in 1860 in the Minerva After retirement, Penniman undertook a business venture in Chicago, lost money, and returned to whaling for a time. On one South Atlantic trip, gone 3 years, he came back with 4200 bbls. of oil, one of the largest hauls ever to port at New Bedford. His wife, Betsey Knowles Penniman, accompanied her husband on some trips-- (his wife was born in the house directly across the street from the Penniman House). His seventh and last voyage was 1881-1884 in the Jacob A. Howland, a three-years voyage to the Arctic.
Penniman was a typical whaling captain Records show that he never lost a vessel in his command. He died in 1913, and his son, Eugene, carried on the work for a short time.
The real significance of the house lies in three factors: The unique appearance of the house (plans were said to have been brought back from France by Penniman, personally), the fact that this is the only whaling captain's house in Eastham, and it is the only one inside the Seashore boundaries.
Restoration of the interior will depend on public interest and the availability of funds. Much victorian furniture (some of it from this house) is stored at the Seashore. The interior of the house is very plain with the exception of the captain's den, a red-flocked wallpaper, and a fancy quilt-trim room which will require much money and time to restore..
Local significance of the building:
Penniman was born in 1831, one of 11 children. He went to sea at eleven. His fourth whaling voyage took place in 1860 in the Minerva After retirement, Penniman undertook a business venture in Chicago, lost money, and returned to whaling for a time. On one South Atlantic trip, gone 3 years, he came back with 4200 bbls. of oil, one of the largest hauls ever to port at New Bedford. His wife, Betsey Knowles Penniman, accompanied her husband on some trips-- (his wife was born in the house directly across the street from the Penniman House). His seventh and last voyage was 1881-1884 in the Jacob A. Howland, a three-years voyage to the Arctic.
Penniman was a typical whaling captain Records show that he never lost a vessel in his command. He died in 1913, and his son, Eugene, carried on the work for a short time.
The real significance of the house lies in three factors: The unique appearance of the house (plans were said to have been brought back from France by Penniman, personally), the fact that this is the only whaling captain's house in Eastham, and it is the only one inside the Seashore boundaries.
Restoration of the interior will depend on public interest and the availability of funds. Much victorian furniture (some of it from this house) is stored at the Seashore. The interior of the house is very plain with the exception of the captain's den, a red-flocked wallpaper, and a fancy quilt-trim room which will require much money and time to restore..
Commerce; Architecture; Maritime History
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
The first Thanksgiving in America was held in Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1621. The feast lasted for three days and was attended by both Pilgrims and Native Americans.
About Barnstable County
Barnstable County Timeline
Barnstable County, located in southeastern Massachusetts, has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The area was originally inhabited by the Wampanoag Tribe, who had a strong presence in the region for thousands of years before the arrival of European colonizers.
In the early 17th century, settlers from England, including the Pilgrims, established the Plymouth Colony, which encompassed a portion of what is now Barnstable County. This marked the beginning of European settlement in the area. Over time, more colonists arrived and settled in Barnstable, with the town being officially incorporated in 1639.
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, agriculture, fishing, and whaling became important industries in Barnstable County. The region's fertile soil supported the growth of crops such as corn, wheat, and barley, while its proximity to the ocean allowed residents to engage in fishing and whaling activities. Shipbuilding also thrived during this period, contributing to the local economy and sustaining the maritime tradition.
In the 20th century, tourism became a significant industry in Barnstable County. Cape Cod and its picturesque beaches, quaint towns, and charming lighthouses attracted visitors from all over the country. As a result, the county experienced significant growth and development, with the population increasing and the economy diversifying to accommodate the tourism industry.
Today, Barnstable County remains a popular tourist destination, offering a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. It continues to honor its past through the preservation of historic landmarks and the celebration of its cultural heritage, while also embracing innovation and progress in various fields, including technology, healthcare, and education.
In the early 17th century, settlers from England, including the Pilgrims, established the Plymouth Colony, which encompassed a portion of what is now Barnstable County. This marked the beginning of European settlement in the area. Over time, more colonists arrived and settled in Barnstable, with the town being officially incorporated in 1639.
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, agriculture, fishing, and whaling became important industries in Barnstable County. The region's fertile soil supported the growth of crops such as corn, wheat, and barley, while its proximity to the ocean allowed residents to engage in fishing and whaling activities. Shipbuilding also thrived during this period, contributing to the local economy and sustaining the maritime tradition.
In the 20th century, tourism became a significant industry in Barnstable County. Cape Cod and its picturesque beaches, quaint towns, and charming lighthouses attracted visitors from all over the country. As a result, the county experienced significant growth and development, with the population increasing and the economy diversifying to accommodate the tourism industry.
Today, Barnstable County remains a popular tourist destination, offering a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. It continues to honor its past through the preservation of historic landmarks and the celebration of its cultural heritage, while also embracing innovation and progress in various fields, including technology, healthcare, and education.
Barnstable County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Barnstable County, Massachusetts.
- 1685 - Barnstable County is established by the Plymouth Colony.
- 1700s - The county experiences rapid growth due to its favorable location for trade and fishing.
- 1774 - Barnstable County actively participates in the Revolutionary War against British rule.
- 1801 - The Cape Cod Canal is opened, connecting Cape Cod to the mainland and boosting trade and transportation in the region.
- 1830s - The whaling industry becomes a major economic driver in Barnstable County.
- 1860s - Barnstable County contributes significantly to the Union cause during the American Civil War.
- 1900s - The tourism industry begins to flourish in Barnstable County, attracting visitors to its scenic coastlines and historic towns.
- 1914-1918 - Barnstable County sends many soldiers to fight in World War I.
- 1950s-1960s - Cape Cod experiences population growth and development, leading to increased suburbanization.
- 2000s - Barnstable County adapts to the challenges of climate change and works to preserve its natural resources.