Poor House and Methodist Cemetery, Falmouth

The Poor House and Methodist Cemetery is a historic site with deep ties to the town's social history. Established in 1809, the Poor House opened its doors in 1812 to provide shelter and care for the poor and mentally ill, serving this purpose for over 150 years until 1963.

After its closure as a poor house, the building, now called the Edward Marks Jr. Building, transitioned to other uses. Over the years, it has housed the Falmouth Retirement System and the Falmouth Historical Commission, reflecting its evolving role in the community. The property also became a creative hub for local artists when it served as the home of the Falmouth Artists Guild, prior to the construction of the Falmouth Art Center.

Adjacent to the Poor House is the Methodist Cemetery, also known by various names such as the "Old Methodist Cemetery" and the "Falmouth Poor House Burial Ground," where many of the Poor House's residents were laid to rest. Both the Poor House and cemetery were recognized for their historical significance and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1998.