The Lyman Estate
The beautiful Lyman Estate, with its thirty-seven acres of lawns, gardens, and historic greenhouses, offers a private and exceptional setting for any social or corporate event. Earlier this month we had the opportunity to plan Lydia and Henrik’s wedding day at the gorgeous venue and had a wonderful experience working with the staff to create a memorable day!
History
The Lyman Estate, also known as The Vale, was built in 1793 by wealthy shipping magnate Theodore Lyman. Originally used as a summer home, the Federal-style mansion was designed by renowned Salem architect Samuel McIntire. The Estate remained in the Lyman family until 1952, when the five Lyman heirs donated it to the Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities, now Historic New England. The property is now a National Historic Landmark and is available for rental for weddings and private parties.
Rooms/Options
The Lyman Estate, open year-round, offers a beautiful and gracious setting for any type of event. From April through October, the flowering trees and perennial gardens are especially lovely, and events may be held outside as weather permits. 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.
The mansion can accommodate up to 150 seated guests with room for 175 guests reception-style. Tents are welcome on the property with a seated capacity of up to 200 guests.
Six rooms are available for use: The oval parlor with its original, hand-carved woodwork; a dramatic Victorian library; the east parlor and the dining room, where light streams in through bay windows; the ballroom, with its crystal chandeliers, classical columns, and marble fireplace. A grand staircase with a Palladian window provides a perfect spot for photographs.
Vendor Information
The Lyman Estate has a list of authorized caterers of which you must choose from and additional preferred vendors that are optional.
Rental Information
Depending on the day of week and time of year, the rental fees range from $1,200-4,800 and include:
- Use of the historic air-conditioned and handicapped accessible mansion and landscaped grounds
- Private changing room for the bride
- Ample on-site parking
- Use of white garden chairs, in addition to several 60”, 48” and 36” round tables and hightops.
- Use of on-site baby grand piano
Contact the Function Office for more detailed information and to book your next event: LymanFunctions@HistoricNewEngland.org or 617-994-6672.
Happy Planning!
The Swank Team
