The Lyman Estate
The Lyman Estate served as an elegant country retreat for wealthy shipping merchant Theodore Lyman and his family in the early 1800s. (Photo: Lisa Rigby Photography)
Surrounded by extensive lawns and perennial gardens, the centrally air-conditioned Lyman Estate offers an elegant setting. Use of indoor and outdoor areas gives you maximum flexibility in planning your party. Enjoy a cocktail hour in the garden. Dine al fresco on the covered veranda overlooking the landscaped grounds. Host intimate dinner parties in antique-filled parlors. Dance in the magnificent ballroom where the waltz was introduced to Boston society.
Saturdays available in 2022: November 19; December 10, 17
Saturdays available in 2023: January 7, 14, 21, 28; February 4, 11, 18, 25; March 4, 11, 18, 25; April 1, 8; May 13, 20; June 17; July 8, 15, 22, 29; August 5, 12; September 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; October 14, 21, 28; November 4, 11, 18; December 2, 9, 16
Five rooms are available for your use: The oval parlor with its original, hand-carved woodwork; a dramatic Victorian library; the east parlor; the dining room, where light streams in through bay windows; and the ballroom, with its crystal chandeliers, classical columns, and marble fireplace. A grand staircase with a Palladian window provides a perfect spot for photographs. On the second floor, there is a beautifully furnished bride’s room. Your rental gives you exclusive use of the mansion and the grounds. In fact, think of the Lyman Estate as your private estate for the day. We invite you to schedule a visit to the Lyman Estate and meet with one of our event managers.
Location: 185 Lyman Street, Waltham, Mass.
Your rental fee supports Historic New England’s mission to preserve and share New England heritage. To express our thanks for your support, we offer you a complimentary one-year membership. Membership benefits include free admission to Historic New England sites, discounts on merchandise and events, and a subscription to Historic New England magazine.
Download a Lyman Estate floor plan.
Please contact us to make an appointment to see the estate. Appointments are available, made in advance, as our event schedule permits.
Photos courtesy of Lisa Rigby Photography, Alex + Betty, and Ria Mackenzie Photography.The Lyman Estate served as an elegant country retreat for wealthy shipping merchant Theodore Lyman and his family in the early 1800s. (Photo: Lisa Rigby Photography)
The Lyman Estate served as an elegant country retreat for wealthy shipping merchant Theodore Lyman and his family in the early 1800s. (Photo: Lisa Rigby Photography)
The classically furnished second-floor bridal suite is the perfect place to prepare. (Photo: Alex + Betty)
The dramatic 600-foot peach wall, constructed at the turn of the 19th century, provides the perfect backdrop for an outdoor ceremony. (Photo: Lisa Rigby Photography)
The Oval or “Bow” Parlor is preserved in architect Samuel McIntire's original 1793 design. (Photo: Alex + Betty)
With stunning views of the back lawn and gardens, the Palladian window along the grand staircase is a favorite "first look" location. (Photo: Alex + Betty)
Constructed with an emphasis on balance and symmetry, the ballroom is an elegant example of Federal period architecture. (Photo: Ria Mackenzie Photography)
The library, added in 1882, reflects darker Victorian tastes with its stained pine paneling. (Photo: Lisa Rigby Photography)
Use of five indoor rooms and 37 acres of outdoor space gives you maximum flexibility in planning your special day. (Photo: Lisa Rigby Photography)
Clients are required to choose caterers from our exclusive list. No off-list catering is permitted, with the exception of wedding cakes and dessert vendors.
Tents are permitted, but must be supplied and set up by PEAK Event Services or Sperry Tents. If considering a tent rental, please inquire with Lyman staff.
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