1778

Homestead built by Deacon Joseph Mather, son of Reverend Moses Mather, and his wife Sarah on 100 acres.

 

1781

Homestead raided by the Tories and valuables stolen from the well but not found inside the house (come for a tour to discover the secret hiding spot).

 

1906 - 1930

Homestead owned by Stephen Tyng Mather, first Director of the National Park Service.

 

1930 - 1993

Homestead restored, maintained and cared for by Bertha Mather McPherson, Stephen Mather’s daughter, one of the first female architects in Connecticut and a founding member of the Darien Historical Society.

 

1964

Homestead designated a National Historic Landmark.

 

1966

Homestead listed on National Register of Historic Places.

 

2016

Homestead designated a Protected Town Landmark by Town of Darien.

 

2017

The Mather-McPherson family donated the Homestead to a newly created Foundation to be operated as a museum for public education.

 

2020

Opened the Elizabeth W. Chilton Education Center.

 

2021

The McPherson family donated an additional acre of land to the Foundation. The Homestead becomes one of nine markers on Darien’s historical Heritage Trail.

 

2024​

Completed phase one of 1778 House Restoration Project based upon recommendations from 2022 Condition Assessment.