Barrell, Joseph, 1739-1804

Joseph Barrell was a successful merchant. Born in Boston, Ma. in 1739, his father was a merchant and shipbuilder. He, like his brother, became involved in mercantile operations. In 1764, he married Ann Pierce. He was listed as a member of the Sons of Liberty in 1769. Barrell's first wife died and in 1771, he married Hannah Fitch. Although the business was moved to Waltham, he maintained a residence on Summer St. in Boston. Barrell remained active in public affairs and even ran unsuccessfully for governor of Massachusetts. Early in the 1790s, Barrell acquired over 200 acres of land overlooking the Charles River at Cobble Hill in Charlestown. A dwelling for the property was designed by Charles Bulfinch, who had worked in Barrell's counting office between 1781 and 1786. In 1795, Barrell married Electra Brigham. She died a few years later and he married Sarah Webb. During the 1790s, much of Barrell's time was devoted to constructing and furnishing his new home, Pleasant Hill. He died in 1804 and the property was sold.