The Gedney House was constructed for a prosperous shipwright named Eleazor Gedney. Eleazor was actually brother-in-law to Captain John Turner, who built Salems House of the Seven Gables. The home was erected shortly before his wedding to the Captains sister Elizabeth. Eleazor died early in his life in 1683, but his family remained in the home. In 1712, when Gedneys youngest daughter Martha was wed, her husband James moved in and they significantly renovated the property. Martha and James left the improved estate to their only child, a daughter Mary, whos son then sold the property in 1773. He sold it to a Benjamin Cox. A small home just behind the Gedney House was built by Benjamin Cox. It is now used as a residential unit, housing tenants who alert Historic New Englands staff of any repairs needed to the home.