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The House and Life History of Dorcas Morse (continued) Therefore, her brother’s high standing was instrumental in procuring for Dorcas the influential husband of Benjamin Clark, who was the gentleman next door. He served as Selectman for no less than seventeen years and figured prominently in town affairs. There was a smaller age disparity between the two couples than was typical for marriages of that era: Benjamin was only one year older than his wife. Together, they had ten children from 1666 to 1687.1 Dorcas died on July 14th, 1725 and her husband passed away on December 1st, 1724. Indications are their children grew up to be influential or married wealthy husbands. For example, Hannah’s husband, Ebenezer Mason, was the only male member of his family after the slaughter in King Philip’s War. Inheriting the entire family estate, he became a very prominent individual in Medfield politics, serving as Selectman for seven years, quartermaster in 1716, and Representative to the General Court in 1730. Benjamin Clark received his land grant in 1668, but according to historical records, the actual Peak House was constructed in 1665. It is not clear as to why this happened, whether Clark may have been personally dishonest or the records are simply faulty. The original House was burned down during King Philip’s War. Clark immediately took up the task of rebuilding it, during which time he petitioned the General Court for relief from taxes, which was granted. He passed his property on to his son, Seth Clark, in his will. Then, from 1805 to 1923, the Peak House passed through a string of owners, and it was not until 1924 that it was deeded to the Medfield Historical Society.2 Being the most famous historical house of Medfield, the Peak House holds the record for the highest pitched roof recorded in Massachusetts built during the 17th century. Footnotes
 
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