The General Rufus Putnam House, located at 344 Main Street in Rutland, Massachusetts, stands as a remarkable testament to history, earning its place as a U.S. National Historic Landmark and securing a spot on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. This beautifully preserved two-story wood-frame house has a rich and diverse history, making it a captivating structure for visitors today.

Constructed between 1760 and 1765 by John Murray, a Scots-Irish immigrant and Mandamus Councillor, the house witnessed significant events during the prelude to the American Revolutionary War. As a Mandamus Councillor, Murray enforced tax laws and was accountable only to the governor and king. However, on August 24, 1774, an enraged mob forced Murray to flee his home. Seeking refuge in Boston and later in New Brunswick, Murray never returned. The confiscated property became home to Daniel Bliss and his wife, Murray's daughter, both Loyalists during the war.

In 1781, the property found a new owner in General Rufus Putnam, who purchased the house and 150 acres of land for 993 pounds. Putnam, a key figure in American history, resided in the house until 1788 before embarking on a journey to settle the Northwest Territories as a leader of the Ohio Company of Associates. His efforts led to the establishment of Marietta, Ohio, where he built another home, also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

For more than half a century, from 1896 to 1950, the General Rufus Putnam House served as a museum, welcoming visitors and preserving its historical significance under the care of the Rufus Putnam Memorial Association. However, with the disbandment of the association in 1950, the house transitioned into private ownership.

On November 28, 1972, the General Rufus Putnam House was rightfully added to the National Register of Historic Places, a prestigious recognition of its historical and architectural importance. This acknowledgment underscores the house's role in shaping the narrative of early American history. It's reference number is 72001330.

Today, the house is privately owned by Marcia and Chris Warrington, who acquired it along with just under 8 acres of its original 135-acre farm 25 years ago. While serving as their private residence, the Warringtons also run the house as a small bed and breakfast, allowing visitors to experience a taste of its rich history. Even for those not staying at the bed and breakfast, the General Rufus Putnam House is a sight to behold. Travelers can easily pull over on the side of the road to admire this well-preserved piece of American history and appreciate the Warringtons' dedication to its legacy.