Safeguard the Past for Future Generations.

Why is the Duston-Dustin Garrison House on the National Register of Historic Places? This brick and mortar structure was built during 1697 as a garrison, created to protect the early American colonists from threat of attack by the northern Abenaki natives. It is recognized as an example of First Period architecture. This garrison, manned by local militia, was one of six located in Haverhill and the only one constructed of local bricks; the others were built by using imported bricks. Thomas Duston of Kittery, Maine, the husband of Hannah Emerson Duston, who became known for her story of captivity during the construction of this garrison, was a well-respected, brick maker and mason. Due to the skilled craftmanship of Thomas and local carpenters, this building remains standing over 320 years later, with stories to tell of life in early America. The Duston-Dustin Garrison House