Open for a limited time only

By L.E. Crowley, Town correspondent

When Scituate’s waterfront is transformed into a mecca of music, food and shopping for the annual Heritage Days, a few of the town's most famous historic sites will be open to visitors—one of only five times during the year.

“There’s a fascinating history,” said Scituate Historical Society President David Ball. “I think it’s more interesting than Plymouth, but of course I might be prejudiced.”

On Saturday, Aug. 8, and Sunday, Aug. 9, Lawson Tower, Scituate Lighthouse, and the Cudworth and Mann houses will be open for visitors. Missing from the list is the Little Red Schoolhouse, which is closed for renovations.

Ball said renowned Scituate Lighthouse, a national landmark activated in 1811, is a popular destination visited by thousands throughout the year, if only to drive by. “This is their chance to go in and see the view,” Ball said.

Lawson Tower, built in 1902 by financier and author Thomas Lawson, is a German-style tower once used for water transport. Renovations were completed in 2007, and observers who have been to the top have said it offers a sweeping view of Scituate’s coastline, including Scituate Lighthouse.

The tower is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Also open on Heritage Days weekend is the Cudworth and Mann houses. The Cudworth House, built in 1797 has five exhibit rooms that show early American life, including a 250-year-old loom.

The Mann Farm House and Museum was the seat of the Mann family who have lived in Scituate since 1636 and is one of the town’s oldest families. The Scituate Garden Club has maintained a wilflower garden that blooms all year-long.

The house also boasts a curiosity of history: A rusted circa 1920s automobile with a tree growing through the middle that was abandoned in the backyard when owner Percy Mann refused to pay registration and insurance fees.

All four historic sites will be open from 1 to 4 p.m. Aug. 8 and 9. A $2 donation for adults is suggested, any donations are welcome.