Frances Perkins National Monument
National Monument · Maine
DOI Photo
Historic house in Maine, United States
Frances Perkins National Monument is a historic site that preserves the Perkins Homestead, a homestead at 478 River Road in Newcastle, Maine, United States. The 57-acre (23 ha) property, including its 1837 brick farmhouse, was designated a National Historic Landmark and a national monument for its association with the life of Frances Perkins (1880–1965), the first woman to hold a position in the United States Cabinet, who spent many years at the property, as a child and in her later years. The property was first listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009 as the Brick House Historic District.
About Frances Perkins National Monument
Known as the first woman to hold a presidential cabinet position and the “Woman behind the New Deal,” Frances Perkins championed many labor rights that Americans enjoy today, including safety standards, Social Security, and shorter workweeks. Her impressive career and accomplishments, including as Secretary of Labor, opened the door for other women to hold high government positions.
Park Photos
Operating Hours
Frances Perkins National Monument
The historic buildings of the homestead are currently closed until summer of 2025, including the Perkins’ family ancestral home known as the “Brick House”. The grounds are open from sunrise to sunset daily year-round.
| mon | tue | wed | thu | fri | sat | sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter Frances Perkins National Monument?
Frances Perkins National Monument is free to enter.
What are the best activities at Frances Perkins National Monument?
Frances Perkins National Monument offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages.
What is the weather like at Frances Perkins National Monument?
Spring: Temperatures usually range from 40 F to 70 F. Snow or rain is common. Summer: Temperatures usually range from 70 F to 100 F. Rain and sun are equally common. On very sunny days, be prepared to bring plenty of water - heat exhaustion is a common complaint among park visitors who are unprepared. Fall: Temperatures usually range from 40 F to 70 F. Fall foliage is at its peak around late September. Winter: Temperatures range from -30 F to -10 F. Be prepared with cold weather gear.
How do I get to Frances Perkins National Monument?
The park is only accessible by car. If using a GPS device for directions, use the park’s physical address: 478 River Road; Newcastle, Maine, 04553. From US Route 1 traveling either direction, exit onto the Snead Spur in Newcastle; turn right onto River Road and follow for about 1.5 miles. The park is on the left before the intersection of Castlewood Road.
Entrance Fees
Free Admission
Weather
Spring: Temperatures usually range from 40 F to 70 F. Snow or rain is common. Summer: Temperatures usually range from 70 F to 100 F. Rain and sun are equally common. On very sunny days, be prepared to bring plenty of water - heat exhaustion is a common complaint among park visitors who are unprepared. Fall: Temperatures usually range from 40 F to 70 F. Fall foliage is at its peak around late September. Winter: Temperatures range from -30 F to -10 F. Be prepared with cold weather gear.
Directions
The park is only accessible by car. If using a GPS device for directions, use the park’s physical address: 478 River Road; Newcastle, Maine, 04553. From US Route 1 traveling either direction, exit onto the Snead Spur in Newcastle; turn right onto River Road and follow for about 1.5 miles. The park is on the left before the intersection of Castlewood Road.
📍 View on Google Maps →Location
Official Resources
NPS Official WebsiteMore Parks in Maine
Other national park sites you might enjoy
