Preserving one of New England's most remarkable Gilded Age estates — for the community, and for future generations.
The Friends of the Edward F. Searles Estate is a grassroots organization of volunteers who are committed to the preservation, restoration, and innovative repurposing of one of Methuen's most iconic, remaining landmarks, The Edward F. Searles Estate. Our mission is to support the preservation and restoration of the Searles Estate through advocacy and educational awareness.
We seek to accomplish our mission by:
Encouraging the residents of the City of Methuen, together with state and local legislators, to view the Estate as a unique opportunity for both an historic and economic investment in the future of our community — particularly as a catalyst for future economic growth in the heart of our community.
Supporting the development of a comprehensive plan to repurpose the Estate in a manner that respects the history of the property and the legacy of Mr. Searles while creating opportunities for community access and realistic economic revenue.
Working to guarantee that management of the Searles Estate fully embraces and implements a development plan consistent with the goals and objectives established by the City of Methuen.
By working collaboratively, we will create enthusiasm among a community of organizations and individuals who will add their support to the preservation and future economic success of a plan which will raise the value of the property, drive future revenues, and increase awareness of the rich history of our community. We are committed to thoughtful strategic planning, inclusive community engagement and long-term stewardship, which showcases our history for future generations.
On March 30, representatives of Friends of the Searles Estate met with Mayor Beauregard to present a plan proposing a new approach to the preservation, restoration, and repurposing of the Searles Estate. We're excited to work with him and with our City Councilors to move this process forward.
We have identified six steps we believe are key to a successful preservation, restoration, and repurposing initiative.
Recognize the value of the Edward F. Searles Estate to the City of Methuen.
Commit to preserving the historic artifacts for the citizens of Methuen.
Complete a comprehensive evaluation of the property.
Recruit and employ a team of professional planners dedicated to managing the evaluation of the property and developing a vision and long-term development plan for the future.
Implement the development plan through a combination of private, public, and non-profit investment.
Invest in the future of Methuen.
Edward Francis Searles was born in Methuen on July 4, 1841 — the son of a mill worker who would grow up to control one of America's greatest Gilded Age fortunes. An interior designer by trade, Searles married the widow of railroad magnate Mark Hopkins in 1887, inheriting a fortune of $21 million upon her death in 1891.
He spent the rest of his life transforming his childhood home on Lawrence Street into an extraordinary estate — 74 rooms, a brownstone chapel, a granite chime tower, carriage houses, and more than two dozen eclectic buildings. Most were designed by Henry Vaughan, the renowned English-Gothic architect who co-designed the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C.
In 2024, the City of Methuen purchased the 19-acre estate for $3.25 million — saving it from a developer who had planned to demolish Pine Lodge and replace it with 151 apartment units. Today, the estate's future is being shaped by the community it belongs to.
Read the Full HistoryThe future of the Searles Estate is being written right now — by the people of Methuen. Here's how you can shape it.