Frank R. Lillie House

US

Frank R. Lillie House
Frank R. Lillie House
Location
US
Category
heritage historic sites
Coordinates
41.7895, -87.59281
Best time
Morning or early afternoon
Weather tip
Check the local forecast before visiting.

Overview

The Frank R. Lillie House stands as a significant site for those interested in the history of biological sciences in the United States. Frank Rattray Lillie (1870–1947) was a prominent American zoologist and embryologist who served as the director of the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, for many years. His residence, designated as a National Historic Landmark, serves as a physical testament to his immense contributions to the field of developmental biology and his leadership in the scientific community. Visitors to this site can explore the historical context of early 20th-century scientific research and the domestic environment of one of the era's most influential scholars. While the site is primarily recognized for its historical association with Lillie, it remains a point of interest for researchers and history enthusiasts alike. When planning your trip ideas for exploring academic landmarks, the Lillie House offers a unique window into the personal life of a man who helped shape the trajectory of modern embryology. As you consider what to do in the area, please note that the house is a private or restricted site, and visitors should verify current accessibility before planning an excursion. The structure reflects the architectural style of its time and provides an authentic glimpse into the environment where Lillie conducted much of his scholarly work and correspondence.

General information

The Frank R. Lillie House stands as a significant site for those interested in the history of biological sciences in the United States. Frank Rattray Lillie (1870–1947) was a prominent American zoologist and embryologist who served as the director of the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, for many years. His residence, designated as a National Historic Landmark, serves as a physical testament to his immense contributions to the field of developmental biology and his leadership in the scientific community. Visitors to this site can explore the historical context of early 20th-century scientific research and the domestic environment of one of the era's most influential scholars. While the site is primarily recognized for its historical association with Lillie, it remains a point of interest for researchers and history enthusiasts alike. When planning your trip ideas for exploring academic landmarks, the Lillie House offers a unique window into the personal life of a man who helped shape the trajectory of modern embryology. As you consider what to do in the area, please note that the house is a private or restricted site, and visitors should verify current accessibility before planning an excursion. The structure reflects the architectural style of its time and provides an authentic glimpse into the environment where Lillie conducted much of his scholarly work and correspondence.

Did you know

  • Frank R. Lillie was a key figure in the development of the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole.
  • The house was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976.
  • Lillie's research focused primarily on the fertilization and development of marine invertebrates.

History

Frank Rattray Lillie purchased the property in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, which became his primary residence and a center for his scientific activities. Lillie served as the President of the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) from 1908 to 1925 and later as its director. His work at the laboratory and his home helped establish Woods Hole as a world-renowned center for biological research. The house was formally recognized for its historical importance in 1976, when it was listed as a National Historic Landmark, honoring Lillie’s role in advancing the biological sciences during a pivotal period of discovery in the early 20th century.

Cultural significance

The Frank R. Lillie House is culturally significant as a symbol of the professionalization of American biology. Lillie was instrumental in securing funding and organizational structure for the Marine Biological Laboratory, which attracted leading scientists from around the globe. By maintaining his residence in the vicinity of this research hub, Lillie fostered a collaborative intellectual culture that bridged the gap between academic research and field-based observation. The house serves as a monument to the collaborative spirit of the scientific community that defined the growth of American research institutions during the early 1900s.

Geography and landscape

The Frank R. Lillie House is located in the village of Woods Hole, situated on the southwestern tip of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The area is defined by its coastal geography, characterized by proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Vineyard Sound. The landscape is largely maritime, with the house nestled within a historic residential neighborhood that retains much of its turn-of-the-century character. The surroundings are marked by winding roads, coastal vegetation, and the presence of various scientific institutions that have defined the local landscape for over a century.

More facts

  • Imported from OSM batch

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