S. B. Pendleton c 1900

This is the oldest house still standing in Hebron Center. It is one of few houses in Hebron that would have stood before the American Revolution. Few battles of the American Revolution were fought in Connecticut. However, in 1780 Lebanon was the site where the French Cavalry units camped. In June of 1781, Lauzun’s French Hussar Troop marched by this house on their way to Yorktown, the last battle of the Revolutionary War.

From 1772-1775 this house served as a merchant’s store. By the early 1800’s, this house was home to two remarkable Hebron women who supported themselves independently. Jobs for women were scarce in the 19th century. In 1835, this was the home of Miss Bradford who ran an academy or finishing school “for select young ladies”. Later in 1854, it was the home of Sybil Gillett who made bonnets and sold them from this house. In the mid-20thcentury it was the home of Miss Marjorie Martin, Librarian at the Douglas Library and for whom the road was named.

Think about it

In the 1800’s there were few jobs for women. Most women were expected to marry. If not, they could sew or teach school. Do you know how to sew? Why would that be a valued skill in a time without sewing machines or ready-made clothing?

Name some jobs today that women might have. How are they different from sewing and teaching?

Where to go next

From here cross the street and walk toward the Gull Schoolhouse.

Meet Your Neighbors QR Tours funded by the Hebron Greater Together Community Fund in conjunction with the Hebron Historical Society