The Friends of the Dwight Derby House is a 501c(3) nonprofit group that supports the active use and preservation of this historic property. Through its efforts the Dwight-Derby House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

About the House

The Dwight-Derby House is a wonderful example of a mid-century 1700s home, resting in a setting that has withstood the ravages of time. The old meetinghouse still stands in its original location and a mill pond connecting both of these historically significant properties still fills. It is as if time has stood still to create this picturesque scene straight from the 1700s. 

This house was named for its two long-term families who lived amongst its walls – the Dwights, who were the original family, and the Derbys, who later occupied the house.

Mission/Vision

Our mission has always been trifold with preservation, education and community as key components. The points below represent the center of our core values.

• For visitors to experience the home as it was 300 years ago
•  A learning site for students and adult education
• A museum for permanent and temporary exhibits
• A special events site
• A research site

History

In 1996 the house was up for sale. It was not in the best of condition and the wrecking ball was looming. A grass roots group formed to save the house. They gathered information on the house and presented their findings to the Town of Medfield. As a result of these efforts, the Dwight-Derby House was purchased by the Town of Medfield by an almost unanimous vote of its townspeople.

We are in our 24th year of operation and have made great strides in preserving the house and property.

Our Thanks

Our thanks to the many volunteers who have contributed endless hours of their time to allow the story of the house to continue and to unfold. A special thank you to Mark Hickey for his time and talent in photographing the interior house rooms shown on this website.