Constructed as a law office in 1790, the rear part of 202 High Street was conveyed by Ambassador William Vans Murray to his brother, Dr. John Murray, in 1797. Judge James A. Stewart acquired the property around 1848, and it was significantly added to.
In the early 20th century, prominent local architect (and twice mayor of Cambridge) J. Benjamin Brown bought the building and converted the top floor into a residence, keeping the first floor as his office. Later, it was the headquarters of the Cambridge Yacht Club Woman’s Auxiliary.
In 2008, the structure was the victim of arson, requiring the efforts of more than 100 firefighters and causing over $500,000 in damage. It is currently being renovated.
Write a Letter to the Editor on this Article
We encourage readers to offer their point of view on this article by submitting the following form. Editing is sometimes necessary and is done at the discretion of the editorial staff.