Handy House Heritage Trail 183 Hixbridge Road, Westport, MA 02790

Welcome to Handy House Heritage Trail

Discover the rich tapestry of history nestled within the serene landscapes of Westport, Massachusetts. Located at 183 Hixbridge Road, the Handy House Heritage Trail invites you to put on your walking shoes and embark on a captivating journey through time.

Explore History Anew

Our 0.7-mile trail offers an immersive experience, tracing over three centuries of landscape history. Witness the ecological transformation of New England from the perspective of both the early 18th-century European settlers and the indigenous Wampanoag tribes, who have called this region home for over 10,000 years.

Engage with Our Past

Enhance your visit with our Archaeology audio tour, available for download. Delve into the story of our land, beginning in 1700 with the English settlers' deforestation efforts and culminating in the 20th-century reforestation—a testament to nature's resilience.

A Legacy of Stewardship

The Handy House property has been a cornerstone of Westport’s history, once home to notable figures such as Elizabeth and William White, Dr. James Handy, and Eleanor Tripp. Today, it is preserved by the Westport Historical Society, thanks to generous support from anonymous donors, the Community Preservation Act, and the Westport Cultural Council, among others.

Visit Us

Join us at the Handy House Heritage Trail and experience history from a fresh perspective. For more information, please contact the Westport Historical Society at 25 Drift Road, Westport, MA 02790, or call (508)-636-6011.

Committee Members

Our trail is brought to life through the dedication of the Handy House Heritage Trail Committee, including Libby Baylies (Chair), Yvonne Barr, Emily Hoeffel, Holly Herbster, and Jenny O’Neill. Trail signage was thoughtfully designed by Ray Shaw.

Step into the past and explore the natural beauty and historical significance of the Handy House Heritage Trail—where history and nature intertwine.