Lyman Estate
Waltham, MA
Making History
The Lyman Estate was built in 1793 and is a fine example of Federal-style architecture. The estate was originally owned by Theodore Lyman, a wealthy shipping merchant and horticulturist.
Today, the greenhouse complex at the Lyman Estate is preserved as part of the property's historic landscape. Visitors can explore the complex and learn about its history and significance. The greenhouse complex is a rare example of 19th-century greenhouse architecture and provides a glimpse into the world of Victorian horticulture.
About the Lyman Estate
The house is known for its elegant design, with a symmetrical facade, graceful columns, and intricate detailing. The interior features beautifully preserved rooms, including a grand ballroom, a formal dining room, and a library.
The Grounds
The estate includes extensive gardens and greenhouses, which were used by the Lyman family to cultivate exotic plants and flowers. Today, the Lyman Estate is owned and operated by Historic New England, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving New England's heritage. It is open to the public for tours and events, and it is a popular venue for weddings and other special occasions.
Historic New England
The Annual Orchid Sale
The Lyman Estate holds an annual orchid sale, which is a highly anticipated event for orchid enthusiasts in the region. The sale typically features a wide variety of orchids, including rare and exotic species, as well as hybrids.
The sale is a great opportunity for people to purchase orchids directly from growers and vendors, and it often includes educational seminars and workshops on orchid care and cultivation.
The event usually takes place in the spring, when many orchids are in bloom, and it attracts visitors from all over the area who come to admire the flowers and learn more about these fascinating plants. Also, in spring they have herbs and great tomatoes and other perennials.
The Greenhouses
The greenhouse complex at the Lyman Estate consists of several interconnected structures, including a large conservatory, a grape house, a camellia house, and a peach house. These structures were built in the 19th century and were used to grow a variety of plants, including exotic fruits, flowers, and vegetables.
The conservatory is the largest and most impressive structure in the greenhouse complex. It features a glass roof and walls that allow sunlight to penetrate and create a warm, humid environment ideal for growing tropical plants. The conservatory was used to grow exotic plants such as palms, ferns, and those orchids, which were popular during the Victorian era.
The grape house was used to grow grapes for wine production, while the camellia house was used to grow camellias, a popular flowering plant. The peach house was used to grow peaches, which were a delicacy in the 19th century.
Camellias at the Lyman Estate
And, in summertime, they offer movie night. Movies at the Mansion anyone?!
