The Allen property consists of 13 acres of land and a house donated to the DRHS by Eleanor Wyllys Allen in 1980. The property was once part of a larger estate on the southern end of the “Nook” owned by Eleanor’s grandfather, Stephen Allen. The Allen family summered on this property for three generations. Stephen Allen also planned a rail spur and hotel which were never built. He gave 60 acres of his land on Captain’s Hill to the Myles Standish Monument Association for the building of the Myles Standish Monument. His son, Horace Allen, inherited the Allen estate and, in turn, passed it on to his three daughters: Eleanor, Beatrice and Rosamund. Eleanor, a graduate of Radcliffe College, noted legal scholar and author, gave her portion to the DRHS. Rosamund died in at age 101 in 2000 and conveyed her portion to the Unitarian Universalist Church (Cedar Hill Retreat Center). Beatrice’s portion is privately owned.
The Allen Property is under a strict conservation restriction that is held by a third party, the Wildlands Trust. This restriction limits the usage, activity, and development of the property and the partnership between the DRHS and the Wildlands Trust will ensure that the Allen property’s scenic and unique character will be protected for generations to come.
Rules and regulations are posted on the property and adherence is required by all visitors at all times.
Thank you.