Commander’s Mansion

The Commander’s Mansion is a historic event venue on the banks of the Charles River in Watertown, owned and operated by the City of Watertown and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The restored Italianate-style mansion and its seven-acre grounds host weddings, corporate gatherings and private celebrations for up to 200 guests. Couples can hold ceremonies under the grape arbor and cocktail hours on the East and West Lawns.

The house was built as quarters for the commanding officer of the Watertown Arsenal, which opened in 1816 after the War of 1812 showed the need for a new arsenal near Boston. It was constructed for Major Thomas J. Rodman, commander from 1859 to 1865 and developer of the Rodman casting process for cannon, and critics at the time called it too extravagant. Architect Alexander Parris, known for Quincy Market, was noted for his work on the arsenal.

What to Know

• The mansion seats 175 guests indoors across two floors, or 200 under a tent.
• The Talcott and Rodman suites on the second floor, each with a private bath, serve as getting-ready rooms.
• Private tours of the venue are available by appointment.
• The venue is a member of the Charles River Regional Chamber and the Watertown Business Coalition.