Mt. Vernon House is an extraordinary testament to the character of the citizens of Winchester.
The story of the founding and development of the Home for Aged People in Winchester (now known as Winchester Mt. Vernon House) bears repeating. Mr. Philip Waldmyer, owner of a large tannery, stipulated in his will that $2,000 of his estate would go to, either a hospital, or a home for aged people, if such existed within two years of his death. In January of 1894, as the expiration of the two year limit drew near, there was a "large gathering at the Town House of ladies and gentlemen interested in the establishment of a home for aged people". A committee appointed by the Selectmen advised against establishment of a hospital, and favored a home for aged people. The committee decided to buy a property; corporators were chosen, and contributions solicited.

A charter was granted by the State on February 2, 1894, and a Constitution and by-laws adopted on the following day at the first meeting of the corporators.

The Lunt house at 2 Kendall Street was purchased with Mr. Waldmyer's legacy, and additional funds contributed by townspeople. The house was completely furnished with gifts from "169 persons and societies": carpets, stoves, furniture, groceries, one dozen silver spoons, lamps, table linen, bedding, and even a "tin dipper from a willing young girl in modest circumstances".

Mrs. Lynthia Pierce and Mrs. Lucinda Mason found several worthy women who needed a home, and the night before the expiration date "four ladies took tea in the house", and the Home was founded. Dedication exercises were held at the Home on April 8, 1894.

From the beginning community support has been the keystone of the success of this organization, dedicated to "furnish aid and comfort and a home for aged people". The intention has always been to avoid a cold, institutional atmosphere, and to ensure a comfortable, happy home.

When the Home was founded, there were accommodations for four people. In 1913 the house was renovated and enlarged so that twelve persons could be efficiently cared for, and in 1923 the adjacent Catherine Sheehan estate was purchased. Two years later the connection of 2 Kendall Street and 110 Mt. Vernon Street was completed, doubling the capacity of the house. In the 1940's further property was purchased and a Building Fund established, with the hope of constructing a new, modern home. The plan was eventually abandoned as being too expensive, and was replaced with further renovation. This most recently purchased property has been rented out ever since.

Financial support has come from contributions, monetary results of benefits, and from bequests. As early as 1901 a Permanent Fund for the investment of gifts and legacies was established. In 1944 the corporation became a member of the Community Chest, and solicitation of the public ceased. The 1964 Annual Meeting reported that the Home was now self-sufficient; while still a member of Red Feather, no assistance had been requested since 1957. The Board of Directors has through the years made appropriate changes in policy to keep the Home financially viable, while at the same time remaining able to care for residents who are accepted into the Home, whether or not their entrance fee is adequate to cover expenses.

From the early years, townspeople have also helped in many other ways. For nearly twenty years two uncooked dinners were given each week. Milk was sent daily. In 1897 "a lady gave several tons of coal and a quantity of wood when leaving town". In 1951 the Rotary built a Hobby and Recreation room in the basement, and in 1971 renovated a lavatory. Newspapers have been provided, and free tickets to the theater.

Indeed, the residents of the Home have been well entertained from the very beginning. In 1895, its second year, Mr. E. S. Barker gave a concert. The same gentleman sent a carriage on Sundays to convey the residents to and from church. Through the years Garden Clubs have helped with holiday decorations and courtyard flowers. Many individuals and organizations have provided music; friends have shown slides and movies of their trips; other friends have taken the residents on foliage drives, and to lunch at summer homes by the ocean. There is now, also, the Senior Center, only two blocks away.

The En Ka Society has been very generous with both time and money; birthday cakes arrive for each resident on the appropriate day. The bird bath in the courtyard was given by En Ka as a memorial to a particularly beloved Matron, Mrs. McWha.

The churches have always been very supportive financially and in other caring ways. Tremendous credit must also be given to the physicians of Winchester who have cared for the residents, and have given freely of their time on the Board of Directors.

In the 1980's, a major renovation added a private bathroom for every resident, as well as fresh paint, wallpaper and carpeting throughout. Included in the renovation were new heating and hot water systems, modernization of the kitchen, and structural improvements. The house now accommodates 16 residents.

The residents enjoy the homey surroundings of a large living room with sofas and easy chairs, and a piano. Here they can read or chat, and have a cup of tea. Care is provided by a friendly and helpful staff twenty-four hours a day.

The Mt. Vernon House corporation continues to fulfill its mission which has from the beginning been "to furnish aid and comfort and a home for aged people in Winchester" in a non-institutional setting.

Use the links along the left hand side of our web pages to learn more about Mount Vernon House and to schedule a visit today. Want to speak with someone now? Simply dial 781-729-0497.