Built about 1800, it is a prominent local example of Federal period architecture, notably in part for its brick side walls.

[1] The William Woodward House is located east of downtown Taunton, on the west side of Arlington Street.

The immediate surrounding area is mixed light industrial, commercial and residential, with a former railroad station directly across the street.

In 1866 the house was sold to the Old Colony and Newport Railway for use as a depot until a new station was erected nearby on Dean Street in 1881.

Originally oriented facing Dean Street, it was moved to its present location at a later date.