The mission of EPH is to provide a broad array of educational, social and recreational services to address the essential and changing needs of families in the City of Somerville and surrounding communities.

Our logo

The organizational logo exemplifies the ideas and values of Elizabeth Peabody House. Its overall meanings is inspired by the true meaning of diversity and the commitment to others. The human figures holding hands symbolize unity among community members and exemplify family. The colors symbolize the many different cultures, ethnic backgrounds and experiences that come together in partnership with the Elizabeth Peabody House.

Our name

The Elizabeth Peabody House represents the late Elizabeth Palmer Peabody (1804-1894) who devoted her long and full life to the expression of idealism in a variety of forms. Greatly admired by some of her contemporaries as a model of passionate commitment, sympathy, and learning, Miss Peabody worked unceasingly toward the improvement of society. She was a teacher and educational reformer, founder of the kindergarten in America, abolitionist, friend of political refugees, advocate of Native American rights and education, of woman's suffrage, and of world peace.

Our culture

You will notice that the Elizabeth Peabody House has a distinctive culture. Originally established in the West End of Boston, EPH provided educational, social and recreational programs for immigrants and community residents including citizenship classes and social work services. The house became a center for cultural events, educational groups, and sports activities. Due to urban renewal in the 1950s, the Peabody House relocated to Somerville. In 1979, the Elizabeth Peabody House moved to its present site at 277 Broadway. Over the years EPH has integrated itself in to the social fabric of the community in which it resides. It also gives a sense of unity and also reminds us that we are all part of a much bigger picture in our society.