Since 1861, the Brookhouse Home has not wavered from its mission

The graceful red brick mansion overlooks Salem Harbor and Derby Wharf, and neighbors with the Custom House where Salem’s famous Nathaniel Hawthorne penned his classic “The Scarlet Letter”. Built in 1810 for Benjamin Crowninshield, a prominent Salem merchant, the mansion proudly displays the handcrafted designs of Salem’s premier architect Samuel McIntire. The home’s interior offers both charm and character and you can feel the history as you walk about the rooms. The beautifully landscaped gardens are a wonderful retreat for relaxing with friends or watching the activity taking place on the wharf.

Captain Robert Brookhouse, who made his fortune in West African trade, purchased the mansion in 1854. In 1861, Robert Brookhouse gifted the home to the Association for the Relief of Aged Women. Since that date, the Brookhouse Home has continued to honor that vision in providing quality supports to senior women, encouraging them to live active, satisfying lives both at home and within their community.

Our funding by Medicaid and the Department of Transitional Assistance provides financial support to women with limited income, and enables those who spend down their finances to stay in place.