tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66965823915871994352024-03-13T05:32:12.145-07:00Antique Houses Of Gloucester And BeyondGrowing up in a small New England town with a mother who was an antiquarian it was inevitable that I would be exposed to old. After graduating from UMass/Amherst I lived in Connecticut, taught school, married, and raised three children in suburbia. A move to Newburyport MA renewed my interest in all things old. This background has now evolved into research,writing,consulting and all the things I love to do.
Prudence FishEdythhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02691023552149059460noreply@blogger.comBlogger88125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-27255867761370996122021-05-22T13:17:00.001-07:002021-05-22T13:20:11.630-07:00<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p style="text-align: center;"> </p></blockquote><p> </p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: medium;">A MYSTERY FROM THE DEEP</span></p></blockquote><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0pACKFSspObnII6sszDO7G24-4kHgdxgaRrvg_K8ZTVuP9G93poPf797Xdr8AaWEZDH0CDJt7qn-Zr7b-2vAildnZ43Pv3LSsQD1qAkGpTGFWCM1d5qyxSOqYuuvNiK7UAQCHnaHjBJw/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="225" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0pACKFSspObnII6sszDO7G24-4kHgdxgaRrvg_K8ZTVuP9G93poPf797Xdr8AaWEZDH0CDJt7qn-Zr7b-2vAildnZ43Pv3LSsQD1qAkGpTGFWCM1d5qyxSOqYuuvNiK7UAQCHnaHjBJw/" width="180" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p> This is a short but fun post!</p><p> For most of my life I have been a doll collector. From the day as a ten or so year old when I found a valuable French doll in a shaky antique shop with a leaky roof I have been interested. With years of being active in the pursuit of dolls interspersed with periods of moving onto other things such as raising a family, home ownership and other activities there have been times when I was less than active..</p><p>By the 1980s I had settled down in the Lanesville section of Gloucester, MA, America's oldest fishing port, which is now approaching its 400th birthday in 2023. Preparations for a grand celebration are well under way and going full tilt.</p><p>In the mid 1980s I met a friend who would remain a good friend until the present. She had a custom, like many others, of walking on Pavilion Beach in central Gloucester. Edie, my friend, told me of picking up beach glass as she walked the beach. </p><p>What was unusual was that along with finding glass she kept finding doll parts: tiny limbs and other parts made of bisque, an unglazed china. I knew of these tiny dolls as dollhouse dolls and that they came from Germany, were very cute and not expensive. They date to the late 19th century, probably after 1880 and were made in great numbers at least up until 1900. Certainly they do not date to later than the World War I period.</p><p>I found this odd but mildly interesting.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl4a7Wp_W-kEh0H1kLmohHM0iVjnK813jwf56TLPgM0ZdzsAssHyg69EpnF39jvqtoMg4ZogzmCAppBiLWL8G-lbeiyXLU6Icg5PwTFEAjnEbht6lDLZnZpWLd7tlMsKcUexHLHOMNrBo/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="340" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl4a7Wp_W-kEh0H1kLmohHM0iVjnK813jwf56TLPgM0ZdzsAssHyg69EpnF39jvqtoMg4ZogzmCAppBiLWL8G-lbeiyXLU6Icg5PwTFEAjnEbht6lDLZnZpWLd7tlMsKcUexHLHOMNrBo/" width="302" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Edie moved to upstate New York and although I kept in touch we had no more conversations about the tiny dolls on the beach.</p><p>Then a few years ago, circa 2015, thirty years after hearing about the doll parts, another friend, Shelley, mentioned that she, too, liked to walk Pavilion Beach and had found doll parts. After all that time it seemed odd.</p><p>More recently, on Facebook, someone posted a photo of sea glass collected and there in the middle of the glass photo was a doll's arm! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="526" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhookqz2b7e48iuMgRs4iwc6F2kqmH24hFCcRgqqtw_5Of59SBYNACnQ515eAAKu0ziIjgN-RB63ZprqoJ0C3e5nmfBwuuD2_snEToVZupVnYP3OJDiXHgCNRZ3bCyz2pf2YZCiwARlzFs/" width="180" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinxwBwQCouNYsvmrKdBE5va-ssoKbgAGqVjKmNw3m6wcWx9UsiMs1xxYInKX7CzanMRCZT4DQjnHSz2NVN9-St0xOTSZxFKJ8zFtijzwbJg7rNhE4ShOjulY42TPC5DzyXLcKcRzZIm94/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="177" data-original-width="284" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinxwBwQCouNYsvmrKdBE5va-ssoKbgAGqVjKmNw3m6wcWx9UsiMs1xxYInKX7CzanMRCZT4DQjnHSz2NVN9-St0xOTSZxFKJ8zFtijzwbJg7rNhE4ShOjulY42TPC5DzyXLcKcRzZIm94/" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div></div><p></p><p>After I commented on the arm more people came forward to say they knew others who had found doll parts until I heard of maybe a half dozen people. One gentleman said his mother had lived near the beach and had picked up and collected jars full of tiny doll parts. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8HNzRs3rvRFypDrANsRagLrJRPQb9bxsXAI8IFplUnJDR3TylJikZ_Ov8l-km6RpatnuzxC9Dcz-47C87B2Fq1_fhe4Tfep275rSqq4bW4afvNimx1K-LCAqchDXO05_dI4UkV8TbE5c/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="340" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8HNzRs3rvRFypDrANsRagLrJRPQb9bxsXAI8IFplUnJDR3TylJikZ_Ov8l-km6RpatnuzxC9Dcz-47C87B2Fq1_fhe4Tfep275rSqq4bW4afvNimx1K-LCAqchDXO05_dI4UkV8TbE5c/" width="302" /></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8HNzRs3rvRFypDrANsRagLrJRPQb9bxsXAI8IFplUnJDR3TylJikZ_Ov8l-km6RpatnuzxC9Dcz-47C87B2Fq1_fhe4Tfep275rSqq4bW4afvNimx1K-LCAqchDXO05_dI4UkV8TbE5c/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8HNzRs3rvRFypDrANsRagLrJRPQb9bxsXAI8IFplUnJDR3TylJikZ_Ov8l-km6RpatnuzxC9Dcz-47C87B2Fq1_fhe4Tfep275rSqq4bW4afvNimx1K-LCAqchDXO05_dI4UkV8TbE5c/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBTRtkauN3wqxCQKT89r779TBvMspWu_C8UnRYI19MylJ-Y6tRdNiVOqef2HDZt2ApcxkhOlkR0vyBICAiBCUJwz8pSpw9zqvC_ghobaGoKPGQNEau4ONGyQDbQPEjCsfpEp_CYIhi7lE/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="252" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBTRtkauN3wqxCQKT89r779TBvMspWu_C8UnRYI19MylJ-Y6tRdNiVOqef2HDZt2ApcxkhOlkR0vyBICAiBCUJwz8pSpw9zqvC_ghobaGoKPGQNEau4ONGyQDbQPEjCsfpEp_CYIhi7lE/w417-h281/image.png" width="417" /></a></div><p></p><p><br />I have no answers to this mystery. One would conclude that a long ago vessel was bringing these dolls to America from Germany must have gone down in the vicinity but who knows where the currents in the ocean would take them. Should we assume this unknown ship went down perhaps 125 years ago? If so, how many dolls were loaded on that vessel?</p><p>The doll parts are still washing ashore and it remains a mystery from the deep. Has everyone of the many who have walked that beach for years found doll parts?</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY5wTiWUNTRd6egpxR1_N0m0ZDfNWCToWMO6QGdsbznMhmht6iKa2tqLo-xbivG7Qs0yIwEkKQVV3pQuE4zNHGK0Og0TA-qV1OiIxygrs8QdlewHmc334ZE1KaI8eEHuA3-6nkS_kh2c4/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="340" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY5wTiWUNTRd6egpxR1_N0m0ZDfNWCToWMO6QGdsbznMhmht6iKa2tqLo-xbivG7Qs0yIwEkKQVV3pQuE4zNHGK0Og0TA-qV1OiIxygrs8QdlewHmc334ZE1KaI8eEHuA3-6nkS_kh2c4/" width="302" /></a></div><br />I suspect many have and think it will remain a mystery. However if you can add to the story I'll be listening.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHC3AuJEHZcGWr0w5p9w8d83AUec7FWBPg0gs39ykigT5_yny5iiysoe1vx5cvD9iKUHueTIsazVVpV6U3vgEdkWExo1Mh5GkSYJx5wRbjRhZDNETkDtJytOFVmu6pOUfjoTMRJ4CG70/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="794" data-original-width="794" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHC3AuJEHZcGWr0w5p9w8d83AUec7FWBPg0gs39ykigT5_yny5iiysoe1vx5cvD9iKUHueTIsazVVpV6U3vgEdkWExo1Mh5GkSYJx5wRbjRhZDNETkDtJytOFVmu6pOUfjoTMRJ4CG70/" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>As one Facebook contributor wisely said, "Sometimes the rhymes and rhythms of the sea are hard to explain". </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEbWvjJLlHt2BNiTqQsiX5KqLfDatZmCn4wXOhV5nfEIMZ8z4708RvJUEvDwwA54tT6XOtNBhhiO-1Bke_JkcL48mux6JkVPBnvPGNALKZG-6xtRkH70gHmbNiK_fJYdNlbJfM7HthBvI/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="340" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEbWvjJLlHt2BNiTqQsiX5KqLfDatZmCn4wXOhV5nfEIMZ8z4708RvJUEvDwwA54tT6XOtNBhhiO-1Bke_JkcL48mux6JkVPBnvPGNALKZG-6xtRkH70gHmbNiK_fJYdNlbJfM7HthBvI/" width="302" /></a></div> Some of these dolls are not jointed and their limbs don't move. They are called Frozen Charlottes. The group above are unjointed. Here is their melancholy story from about 1840.<p></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #5c5c5c; font-family: "Georgia Pro", serif; font-size: 15px;"><b><i>"Frozen Charlotte dolls get their name from an American folk ballad “Fair Charlotte,” which is a cautionary tale about a girl who, after refusing to wear warm clothing in the cold because she didn’t wish to cover her beautiful dress, freezes to death (again, creepy.) The poem and song were about a real girl named Charlotte, who went riding with her suitor, Charlie, to a winter ball in 1840. When she arrived at the ball, she had frozen to death. The story says Charlie died of a broken heart soon afterward, and they were buried together in a single tomb.</i>"</b></span></p>prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-85632079732504257782021-01-13T11:03:00.001-08:002021-01-13T11:08:57.438-08:00<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><h3 style="text-align: left;"> </h3></blockquote></div></blockquote></blockquote></blockquote><p> </p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><h3 style="text-align: left;"> OUR CAPITOL</h3></blockquote></div></blockquote></blockquote></blockquote><p> THE WAY IT WAS <span style="text-align: center;"> </span><span style="text-align: center;"> </span><span style="text-align: center;"> </span><span style="text-align: center;"> </span><span style="text-align: center;"> </span><span style="text-align: center;"> </span><span style="text-align: center;"> </span><span style="text-align: center;"> </span><span style="text-align: center;"> </span></p><div><span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span></span>MAY 5, 1851</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPTZRGLXX_-5O318BdgB5WhJwdeFzbJQQ1Fl5Nq6X-5E1kV4P70syFKt-LpL9vnv3GTx_cQf34z6_RNNB_goGlheLlK_jRhF3rb92yfuZkugbT_9j4nT2liL3olXB2OA7o4gDaXeDg5Zo/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="327" data-original-width="439" height="341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPTZRGLXX_-5O318BdgB5WhJwdeFzbJQQ1Fl5Nq6X-5E1kV4P70syFKt-LpL9vnv3GTx_cQf34z6_RNNB_goGlheLlK_jRhF3rb92yfuZkugbT_9j4nT2liL3olXB2OA7o4gDaXeDg5Zo/w458-h341/image.png" width="458" /></a></div> T<i>he Capitol before being enlarged after 1850</i><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Early in the day, January 6, 2021 we innocently went about our business with no hint of the terrible events that would unfold in front of our eyes before the day was over. In tears millions watched the desecration of our Capitol in utter disbelief.</div><div><br /></div><div>As the days passed the news did not get any better but while trying to digest what had happened I remembered a cherished letter written by a relative long ago. After reading it again I knew I wanted to share it.</div><div><br /></div><div>We are so filled with despair and disappointment. Every day brings another blow to democracy. Integrity, happiness and a sense of well-being are at an all-time low. It wasn't always this way!</div><div><br /></div><div>The writer of the letter was George Bryant born in Paris, Maine in 1830. His great grandparents had settled in Maine, still part of Massachusetts, soon after the Revolution when several families made the trek to the District of Maine from Plymouth County, Massachusetts. They cleared the fields and built their houses. When the hardest days were over twenty one year old George was in the state of Virginia having traveled to Washington by train from Boston. George Bryant had wonderful penmanship. Today we would call him a caligrapher but he called himself a teacher of chirography which meant penmanship. It was said that he hoped to write calling cards for the senators. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhd__XVwZSwkArN7jyg-uA6aTKmXTr2T4M4pOMvh53QAzZ1QW5DokvehseWFZcqPlwPmF27cnTm6UEorhdj-HTDDhdAW7TdT_Z_nck4_unsVTrP2KIxCrzqbXVlK0b1NTpLsBcHBd8HKg/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="579" data-original-width="363" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhd__XVwZSwkArN7jyg-uA6aTKmXTr2T4M4pOMvh53QAzZ1QW5DokvehseWFZcqPlwPmF27cnTm6UEorhdj-HTDDhdAW7TdT_Z_nck4_unsVTrP2KIxCrzqbXVlK0b1NTpLsBcHBd8HKg/w215-h344/image.png" width="215" /></a></div><br /> <i> George Bryant's Caligraphy</i></div><div><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span></div><div>The year was 1851 and he wrote a letter to his grandfather, Arodus Bryant, back home on a hillside in Paris, Maine. What follows in the letter is his account of the trip. The excitement and the feelings of patriotism he felt as he saw the nation's capitol for the first time are almost palpable. The letter was saved and a copy miraculously came to me from another descendant in New Jersey now an internet acquaintance.</div><div><br /></div><div>This young man was a farm boy from Maine living on a two hundred acre farm, and yet, he wrote with eloquence and clearly was well informed. These rural New Englanders were educated and lived their lives with dignity.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgonU1INJNVHuP7ejn4hv_X7C6dEX1WHKY3_BdUvUBcmhTDHz-fECzYlipAaCdaueSfKFAMB_Ep2kN3nnurYYj4bca3yWCxjeYdm-oKslAck3xTTiuiUT70jLkEsF7ZLMD19Bmtto-XJXo/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="188" data-original-width="143" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgonU1INJNVHuP7ejn4hv_X7C6dEX1WHKY3_BdUvUBcmhTDHz-fECzYlipAaCdaueSfKFAMB_Ep2kN3nnurYYj4bca3yWCxjeYdm-oKslAck3xTTiuiUT70jLkEsF7ZLMD19Bmtto-XJXo/w225-h295/image.png" width="225" /></a></div><br /> <i><span> Caligrapher George Bryant with his quill pen</span></i></div><div><br /></div><div><i>Dear Grandfather,</i></div><div><br /></div><div><i> Thinking that a letter from "Old Virginia: might interest you while sunning yourself by those front windows, I have resolved to write you one and give you a short account of my travels thus far and to describe to some extent the manner and customs of these people here. Yet I hope to give you a more detailed and interesting account when I return home as this must necessarily be very limited and superficial.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i> I intend to make you a long visit of one week when I get back in order to make up for what I have lost. I as much intended to make you a visit while at home, as one could but the day appointed was stormy and the only day I could before starting if I went at the time agreed upon.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i> I will give you a line about my journey.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i> We started from Boston at 1:00 o'clock in the morning with an excursion party bound for Washington. The tickets were for the whole trip to Washington and back so I had to buy a ticket for the trip at risk of not being able to sell the back half, which it was my good luck to do before I got to New York.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i> We arrived at New York about 1:00 o'clock in the afternoon and could have gone to Philadelphia that night if our tickets had been on this route so we were obliged to stop until the next day at noon. We then started for Philadelphia and arrived there at 5:00 PM and after waiting three or four hours, we took the cars for Baltimore and after riding all night we arrived there about 5:00 in the morning. We then took the cars for Washington and in less than 2 hours were in the City of Washington.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i> And according to the nature of all Americans, the first thing to look for was the magnificent building known the world over as the CAPITOL OF THE UNITED STATES. As we got out of the depot behold, there it stood, a most magnificent edifice upon a rise of ground not more than 40 rods from the depot.</i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i> Without further ceremony and with hurried step we all rushed up the avenue which led to its entrance and after ascending many stone steps, more noble than I ever before imagined, we came to the long anticipated spot. And here we beheld architecture approximating as near to perfection, seemingly, as art or science ever can produce. But with this we were not satisfied. We longed to see the great men and renowned patriots of the ages, but this session hour being at the late hour of 12:00, we spent our time exploring the building and examining the (illegible word) connected with it.</i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i>These alone are enough to interest one for days. At length the session drew nigh and we all</i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i>repaired to the House and Senate galleries. You can scarcely imagine our feeling of sublimity as we mused upon the scene.</i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i> We were in the far-famed apartment that for many years has thundered with a nation's eloquence and poured forth a nation's sentiments. Here, too, the courts transpire which fill the public print throughout the land stimulating every mind from the school-boy to the gray-haired veteran, and here is where men have gained a distinction that shall render their names immortal and mingle them with a nation's glory in all coming time. Here too is concentrated the pathetic strife of more than 20 million of the human race. Here Clay and Webster are wont to raise their voices resounding from Maine to Mexico/</i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i> As we were thus wrapped in sublime meditation, Thomas Benton came in with a lion's authority stamped upon his countenance. He took his seat and began looking over some books and papers. He had come in a little before the rest and we soon learned that he was about to make a speech. In a short time they all came in and took their seats, many of which we recognized by their likeness in books and frames.</i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i> If you have a picture of Henry Clay you know just how he looks. I think he has the best shrewd, self-possessing and eloquent expression ever beheld. Cass wears an expression very intelligent and noble in appearance but I suppose you would have one speak about a Whig rather than old Lewis Cass, if he is a much smaller man. I would gladly go on giving a description of things connected with the Capitol but it is getting near bedtime and the sheet is nearly full.</i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i> I will just say that we heard Benton make a speech followed by one from Clay. As I had but little time to spend in Washington I made it in my way to visit most of the public buildings but was most interested in the Patent Office where I saw the old original Constitution, the military coat and equipment worn by the immortal Washington, Franklin's old printing press and a thousand other things of interest which have not room here to insert.</i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i> I am in Virginia and enjoying myself pretty well. It is cold here for the time of year and very changeable. There is not so much difference between seed time here and in Maine as I supposed. Many are not half through planting yet. It was warm here the last of February as it is now.</i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i> I should be happy to have a letter. I have written this in great haste and you must not take it to be a fair specimen of my writing but excuse it.</i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i>Yours ever, </i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i>George Bryant </i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;">Sadly, this young man, born May 9, 1830, well educated and with<i> </i></span><span style="background-color: white;">such promise and enthusiasm for life died on June 17, 1852 a year after he wrote the letter. He was only twenty two years old but had experienced more than most his age, who were brought up in the District of Maine. He was buried in the neighborhood cemetery just over the stone wall from the house he called home.</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB-8GlqBZ6yCGt7w_4kPVEn7v_BhMSqQErCO0P4IWulHxXHBNHS0wsq4pxOCRP-GG6rzEmdGsOT006LdW0XJD92cklEOWvKHjOX6Bo2-2nWRuiWNztb0z3Axn3p0_k1KPNjWfzQdVqn5M/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="268" data-original-width="404" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB-8GlqBZ6yCGt7w_4kPVEn7v_BhMSqQErCO0P4IWulHxXHBNHS0wsq4pxOCRP-GG6rzEmdGsOT006LdW0XJD92cklEOWvKHjOX6Bo2-2nWRuiWNztb0z3Axn3p0_k1KPNjWfzQdVqn5M/w468-h310/image.png" width="468" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>The Bryant Homestead in East Oxford, Maine</i></div></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><div><span><i> Built 1798</i></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>George Bryant celebrated America and rejoiced in being an American He was in awe of the leaders in the Senate and thrilled to see them, hear them and witness them in action. There was no hint of division, disorder or protest on the streets of Washington: and no thugs storming the capitol. Respect for their conscientious leaders was the order of the day.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>How ignorant and pathetic are those murderous hoodlums that took over the Capitol on January 6, 2021. Where is the dignity and respect that flourished in years gone by? </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Today, one hundred and sixty nine years since George Bryant expressed himself with such joy, passion and patriotism, Washington has become a different place.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>RIP George Bryant</span></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaiEY27HGNKKXvXwainoQtuMYjWoLx7yOl-SpF824DlgCBcbh2LU6QbN-axoOf4Widv9pr21uERBfc4as3Fyj_fpq_BoTiiCqDDL61u9wc_eVwobfHkL-KEI6zXk1rzvowqrJEfeDLCoI/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="167" data-original-width="250" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaiEY27HGNKKXvXwainoQtuMYjWoLx7yOl-SpF824DlgCBcbh2LU6QbN-axoOf4Widv9pr21uERBfc4as3Fyj_fpq_BoTiiCqDDL61u9wc_eVwobfHkL-KEI6zXk1rzvowqrJEfeDLCoI/w400-h268/image.png" width="400" /></a></div><span><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div> Shepards Field Cemetery, burial place of George Bryant</i></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18plzsDArA3Jm5udKjKyGLnjXVmUNuR3X4C2AosKTumEKO9Dmd6v28dw-v51wNcE7crqKQ4flqi1punveLT0cepMGGMEANuVADg1j1UYJOi4X5qAtJJFB8jtWG3kYQTKJSzzAUMFX3x8/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="505" data-original-width="800" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18plzsDArA3Jm5udKjKyGLnjXVmUNuR3X4C2AosKTumEKO9Dmd6v28dw-v51wNcE7crqKQ4flqi1punveLT0cepMGGMEANuVADg1j1UYJOi4X5qAtJJFB8jtWG3kYQTKJSzzAUMFX3x8/w443-h280/image.png" width="443" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /></div>prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-6190726094927052812019-12-23T07:25:00.001-08:002019-12-29T07:35:55.590-08:00<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<h2>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large; line-height: 115%;">EMERGENCY</span></b></h2>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<h3>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">HELP SAVE THE PLUMMER HOMESTEAD!</span></b></h3>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"></span></b>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"></span></b>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"></span></b>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"><img alt="Estate sale photo" src="https://d3au0sjxgpdyfv.cloudfront.net/s-1528059-jyepnhft5u3qkzke-t.jpg" /></span></b>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"></span></b>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It has been a long time since I have posted and probably most of
my loyal followers have fallen by the wayside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>An unscheduled fall and broken hip (replaced), a hospital stay and then
rehab just about broke my spirit and definitely broke my momentum.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has taken a preservation crisis to get me
going again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
In previous posts I have stated that two of my favorite
places in New England are Newburyport (including Newbury) where I used to live
and Cape Ann (Gloucester, specifically Lanesville) where I now live.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I went from my beloved 14 room Federal
mansion. in Newburyport, to my sweet little Gothic
cottage in the old fishing village around Lane's
Cove.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Town of Newbury has two greens; the Lower Green is where
the early settlers first set foot on Newbury soil in 1635 from the vessel, “
Mary and John”, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJ1yECUFyScLocvQ767ixV5km_5QaXKdNR9hrD2GDElI2f_CfMWD9o4j_6Q2saarq-RK5wxcL0T1uOb6-ubzReb-pyFgTK-5nnOM-M7IHt_2D2KEnQEbvrqpUsOek3xsL-EXlYLssDpQ/s1600/Mary+at+John+monument.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="370" data-original-width="720" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJ1yECUFyScLocvQ767ixV5km_5QaXKdNR9hrD2GDElI2f_CfMWD9o4j_6Q2saarq-RK5wxcL0T1uOb6-ubzReb-pyFgTK-5nnOM-M7IHt_2D2KEnQEbvrqpUsOek3xsL-EXlYLssDpQ/s320/Mary+at+John+monument.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monument on the Green commemorating those who<br />
came to Newbury on the vessel Mary and John in 1635</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span>on the banks of the
Parker River. The Upper Green is closer to Newburyport. Between the two greens
is High Road, a scenic road lined with old farms in pastoral settings. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="3402820NT.jpg" height="253" src="https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/newburyportnews.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/27/e27e01a3-5a4f-5773-8165-5dc3c8f5b879/53e7e4596a4be.image.jpg?resize=400%2C253" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Schoolhouse on the Lower Green, Newbury, MA</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6696582391587199435" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6696582391587199435" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6696582391587199435" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6696582391587199435" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6696582391587199435" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6696582391587199435" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6696582391587199435" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6696582391587199435" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6696582391587199435" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6696582391587199435" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6696582391587199435" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a> As I became better acquainted with the area I fell more and
more in love with Newbury and Newburyport.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My High St. house was wonderful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I loved every inch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> But a</span>s I drove
down High Road through Newbury I noticed a house, a three story Federal, that
looked much like mine but in the country, back off the busy road on Little’s
Lane and with a large barn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I used to joke
with friends that I wanted that to be my next house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never crossed the threshold and maybe I
wouldn’t have like the interior but I thought I would! It was located on a country
road that led through an allee of trees to the Spencer Pierce Little House surrounded by vast acres,
owned by Historic New England and one of the best 17<sup>th</sup> century
houses in New England.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That would never come to pass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had become a single mother of three, began
a real estate career in historic properties and moved to our little Gothic
second home on Cape Ann.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> The house I fantasized would be my country house one day had been extensively renovated and came on the market for sale. I no longer aspired to own another mansion so paid little attention until I became aware that it was being sold to an abutter and would be demolished. I believe the buyer intended to keep the barn but wanted the house site for his new backyard swimming pool. And so the house was destroyed.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="5738098NT.jpg" height="222" src="https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/newburyportnews.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/d4/ad467b91-0b5c-5495-946f-79c6061967ad/53e7d9b66988a.image.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The machinery stands ready to demolish the house.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was outraged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
200 year old beauty known as the Tappan House had been built by Offin Boardman,
Revolutionary privateer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The price tag
for this property was 1.6 million and it was reduced to rubble.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found this beyond unconscionable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How could this possibly have happen?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After arriving there, myself, in 1971 and trying to soak up
the history of a new community as quickly as possible I soon heard about Florence Bushee
who passed away leaving her mark on the preservation of
Newbury.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her farm which consisted of a
large antique house two barns and other outbuildings on a large parcel of land
was just off the Lower Green on Newman Road. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Abutting her land and facing the Green was the old (1728)
Seddon Tavern. It had been virtually destroyed by fire but Florence Bushee
jumped in to save whatever was left and bring it back until the ancient saltbox
became a much loved landmark facing the green.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It ultimately became the property of Historic New England but was
deaccessioned by them in the early 1980s for want of a sufficient endowment as
I understood it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since then it has been
in good hands and now is a private home, a perfect setting for the antiques of the serious collectors who now own it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75"
coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe"
filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_3" o:spid="_x0000_i1028" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:397.2pt;height:257.4pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\Prudence\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image001.jpg"
o:title="CY3HGW"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was impossible to live there with an
interest in antiques and old houses and not known or heard about Mrs. Bushee.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Her house was sold and remained intact for many years with
tenants coming and going.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I knew one
couple who took up residence there and, at least once, the house was open for a
house tour. So you can imagine the distress of hearing that her estate
had been sold to a developer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It got
worse. His plan included knocking down
the large Federal period house and other buildings on the property leaving one
barn. There was no protection for the
buildings and not much anyone could do.
In fact there was nothing that could be done. It all
went. This newspaper link from 2013
tells the story.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
https://www.newburyportnews.com/news/local_news/sorrow-over-loss-of-historic-home/article_8b47c38e-3a62-5311-ac09-e1b0db676b67.html<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_1"
o:spid="_x0000_i1027" type="#_x0000_t75" alt="130124_NT_BEA_bushee" style='width:336.6pt;
height:244.8pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\Prudence\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image003.jpg"
o:title="130124_NT_BEA_bushee"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="130124_NT_BEA_bushee" src="https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/newburyportnews.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/6/71/671db362-ee3a-52b1-adcc-84588f2391e9/53e7f33364f12.image.jpg?resize=400%2C291" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All that remains is one of the barns on Newman Road.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
An enormous contemporary house now looms over the Seddon
Tavern, dwarfing it and drastically spoiling the image of the old Tavern in the
early village on the Green.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The owners
of the Tavern have suffered a desecration of their immediate neighborhood and
their real estate is badly impacted. Other large new houses line Newman Road.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The distress caused by these losses deeply affected the
town.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Word spread far and wide of the
mindless, insensitive assault on the Lower Green and a memorial service was organized. On a cold January day in 2013 a large group
banded together to eulogize Florence Bushee and her legacy as a preservationist
as well as the memory of her farm.
Throngs of people braved the cold on a Sunday afternoon to pay their
respects to this woman and her home, now destroyed. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I attended with a car full of friends from Gloucester.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we drove up Newman Rd. a Newbury cop
approached the car rather apologetically letting me know that anyone stepping
foot on the property or even two wheels of the car touching the property were
subject to arrest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So we stood in the
road and listened to the speakers before adjourning to the home of Bob
Menicucci and Adele Pollis on the Green for warmth and refreshments.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Before this happened, in 2010 the Lower Green area had been named by Preservation MASSachusetts as one of the most endangered areas in the state. An historic district should have been formed by now and the
Community Preservation Act embraced but the damage was done, people licked
their wounds and life went on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
Bushee property was gone, the Tappan now house just a memory.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://external.fbed1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/safe_image.php?d=AQAtKPyuCercVt6k&w=476&h=249&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com%2Fnewburyportnews.com%2Fcontent%2Ftncms%2Fassets%2Fv3%2Feditorial%2Fd%2F59%2Fd59ea56b-048c-5d3b-9fab-1d523a22a70c%2F53e7d9ef505af.preview-620.jpg%3Fresize%3D620%252C392&cfs=1&upscale=1&fallback=news_d_placeholder_publisher&_nc_hash=AQC_ycSwJNxygJyt" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing in the cold on Newman Rd. to pay respects to Florence Bushee and her farm.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some years later the owner of a very old property on the
opposite side of the Green at 277 High Road passed away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His name was Robert Barton and he was the
eleventh generation descending from the first settler, Plumer, to occupy what
was left of this farm amounting to seven or so acres, the ancient house, large
barn and other outbuildings.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_8"
o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:192pt;height:2in;
visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\Prudence\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image007.jpg"
o:title="Plumer house, Newbury Greem"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was well known that under the roof of this building was
perhaps one of the finest collections of a family that had been in occupation
of this property for over 300 years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>From treasures to simple items for everyday use, all from the long ago, resided together in this house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
considered so rare that maybe there was no other collection in New England that
had survived intact for so long.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the spring of 2018 the contents of the house went up for
sale under a large tent on the Lower Green.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The most serious collectors of Americana were there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first item offered was an early chest
made in the area, in poor condition but rare.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It went for $55,000 as I recall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That set the stage for two days of a most exciting sale.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you like to look at antiques you will love this flyer
from the auction.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://estatesales.org/estate-sales/ma/newbury/01951/june-23-24-newbury-mass-1528059">https://estatesales.org/estate-sales/ma/newbury/01951/june-23-24-newbury-mass-1528059</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Not living near there I didn’t think too much more about it
until a few days ago when a Gloucester reporter asked me if I was following the
story of the Newbury house, the Plumer house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She sent me a link to the front page story in the Newburyport newspaper.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Was it possible that it was happening all over again?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the same place?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was true!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Estate sale photo" height="640" src="https://d3au0sjxgpdyfv.cloudfront.net/s-1528059-jyepnhft5u3qkzke-t.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The old Plummer House, 277 High Road, Newbury Green</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The <i>same </i>developer had made an offer on the Plumer property
with the same intent:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>build big houses,
restore the old house, move the barn and turn it into a house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, it is another assault on the unprotected
Green.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The greedy builder is after this
property.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Could anyone be this
callous?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The answer is “yes”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This developer and many others are this
callous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How does he dare show his face
again in that neighborhood?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Money takes
precedence over all else. We see this over and over again.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Knowing that this was the homestead of the family of a
friend, I emailed her right away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her
reaction was immediate as she passed the word in her family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the next day she called to say that there
might be some help from her family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With
whom should they be in touch?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I tried to
help by searching the Internet and perhaps making some calls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I began with the town hall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was closed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I tried some names
with no luck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I searched for the Newbury
Historical Commission and found a form to fill out if you had a question for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Something else caught my eye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The selectmen of the town were meeting at
5:00 PM that day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was now well into the
afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found the agenda for the
meeting and, worst nightmare, a public hearing on the property was on the agenda.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was in a panic!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
hastily filled out the form for the Historical Commission and clicked “send”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It worked!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The person that saw my email forwarded it to the Board of Selectmen. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In spite of a snow storm a large number of people turned
out, my hastily written letter was apparently read at the meeting. No vote was
taken on the property.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A final decision
will be made by Jan. 9<sup>th</sup>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the meantime my Plumer friends and a group in Newbury frantically trying to save the property are now in communication with
each other and, although Xmas and New Year’s Day are inconvenient, a solution
MUST be found or history will repeat itself in another major assault on the
Lower Green.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This happened so fast my head is spinning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a bolt out of the blue and now I am in
the loop. The details are complicated and can best be conveyed through a
update from the group that is actively scrambling to save this property
which has survived four hundred years of occupancy by the same family, all
eleven generations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With their
permission I will attach it to this post.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
What comes to mind are the words of Charles Olson, Gloucester's poet who wrote a letter to the Gloucester Daily Times upon the demolition of an historic Gloucester house in the 1960s. It was called "A scream to the Editor".<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bemoan the loss, another house is gone</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bemoan the present which assumes its taste.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bemoan the easiness of smashing anything.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here is the news update sent to me as of Dec. 20,
2019.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is long but thorough and very
well organized.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please read and forward
you thoughts, ideas to the person listed at the bottom of the notice. I should
be getting ready for Xmas but after almost two years of silence from me, I must
jump back in and go to bat for the preservation of the Plummer house and the Lower Green. That is my priority today.<br />
Please join me!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pru<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<i>Note: I have hastily copied photos from many sources mostly found on the Internet. I would like to give proper credit but most are unknown or from the Newburyport Daily News. I will endeavor to get more photos of my own after Christmas but no time today, Dec. 23rd. </i><br />
<i>Also, the Plummer name seems to be spelled interchangeably with either one or two "M's".</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hi there intrepid
neighbors and friends:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">You are receiving this
email because you care about what happens to the High Road property of Robert
Barton, otherwise known as the Plummer/Dole/Humphreys homestead. This is an
update of where we’ve been, where we are and where we’re going.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">THE CHALLENGE:<br />
In order to prevent the subdivision and development of this land, the Town of
Newbury or a non-profit organization must come up with $1.65 million dollars by
January 9, 2020.</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">BACKGROUND:<br />
</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Most of you know this
already and can skip ahead (although some details have been corrected slightly
from my previous letter). For those just joining us and/or any who want this
information to pass on to others:<br />
<br />
In March 2018 Robert Barton died leaving his entire estate including the
Plummer homestead at 277 High Road to the Parker River Valley Trust, of which
James Connolly, Esq. is the sole Trustee. The property consists of 6.498 acres,
including the house, the big barn, several outbuildings and 5.594 acres of
farmland that was in the agricultural/conservation tax exemption called Chapter
61A.<br />
<br />
Sometime between then and this fall Mr. Connolly decided to subdivide the
parcel into 6 lots: Lot 1 contains the house and all other buildings. Lots 2-6
are the trees and field behind the house along Cottage Road: this is the land
under Chapter 61A.<br />
<br />
When a property under Ch.61A is sold for development (meaning taken out of
Ch.61A protection), the seller is required to notify the Town of the impending
sale and submit a purchase & sale agreement (P&S). The Town then has
120 days to exercise one of four options: it can buy the property under the
exact same price/terms as the P&S; it can turn the purchase option over to
a conservation nonprofit such as a land trust (under the exact same price/terms
as the P&S); it can notify the seller that the Town waives its right to buy
the land; it can do nothing and let the 120 days run out - at which point the
land is sold.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">On 9/12/19 Mr.
Connolly notified the Town that the property would be sold in two separate
P&S agreements (one in Ch.61A, one not) to developer Mark DePiero and John
Morris. <b>This set the 120 day clock ticking (deadline 1/9/20).</b> One
P&S states that the Trust will sell Lot 1 containing the house, barn and
outbuildings for $500,000. The other P&S states the Trust will sell the
remaining land (consisting of 5 one acre buildable residential lots) for $1.65
million.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Mark DePiero is the
builder who purchased the Bushee estate on Newman Road, demolished most of the
original structures, built three large luxury homes and converted one of the
old barns to a residence. He also purchased the former Harbor School property
off Rolfe’s Lane and built the Wilshire Road subdivision there. While there are
no definite plans we know of, it is presumable that he intends to build 5 large
houses on the Cottage Road land.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">WHAT WE DID TO RESPOND<br />
</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Some neighbors went to
the first public hearing at the Board of Selectmen (BOS) meeting on 12/10/19.
We learned that because the proposed house lots have all have frontage on
Cottage Road, they do not constitute a subdivision and are so-called
“no-restriction lots”, meaning the Town has basically no control what type or
size of houses are constructed as long as they meet Title V requirements.<br />
<br />
I suggested that the land could be purchased and converted to a conservation
green burial ground. This idea was met with general enthusiasm by the Selectmen
and the meeting was continued until 12/17/19. During the next week I and others
of you contacted Chris LaPointe, the Director of Land Conservation at Essex
County Greenbelt Association (ECGA), our neighbors, and others in the community
and beyond to donate to the purchase. I sent out emails and a letter suggesting
people could pledge donations of $1500/per plot in the conservation burial
ground which will ultimately be implemented. We struggled to come up with a
plan to find someone or some entity to stop the deadline clock by paying for
the land, and then letting the non-profit we would create raise funds at a more
feasible pace to re-purchase the land for the conservation burial ground. Here
is the result of those efforts:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">WHAT WE LEARNED IN
WEEK ONE</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
<b>THE BAD</b><br />
1. At this time ECGA does not want to take on buying the land with no serious
funds raised. They do not usually buy land outright- they convey the purchase
for people like us who have already raised most of the funds to purchase.<br />
It may be that if we were to come up with half ($800,000) or more of the money,
ECGA would be more comfortable buying the land and risking a long repayment.
Even with half the money, this would be an unusually big risk for ECGA and
there is NO guarantee they would agree.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Even if we could form
a new non-profit instantaneously, a bank will not loan us the purchase money
because under Ch.61A regulations, as soon as we purchase the land it is in
permanent conservation – and no longer worth $1.65 million for buildable lots.
It is too great a risk for the bank if we default. (This would also be a risk
for ECGA to purchase for us).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">THE GOOD</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
1. Many people - neighbors and others - endorse the plan to buy the land and
create a conservation burial ground and are prepared to pledge to buy plots.<br />
<br />
2. Mr. DePiero and Mr. Morris need part of the Ch.61A land added to Lot 1 to
give them enough acreage to divide the lot into two house lots. A rider in the
P&S states that if the Town purchases the Ch.61A land they (“The Buyer”)
can back out of the P&S to buy the house. This might mean an opportunity
for someone else to purchase and conserve the historic buildings on Lot 1.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">THE SECOND PUBLIC
HEARING</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
A whole lot of the neighborhood showed up for the hearing on 12/17/19 (and most
of us had bad colds).Many people who did not attend sent letters to the BOS
stating their support for the conservation burial ground and their pledge to
purchase plots. Lots of people spoke about the importance of protecting the
parcel and the impact of 5 new houses on runoff, erosion, water table and
traffic. Jessica Brown spoke eloquently about the impact on the unique
community we have on Cottage Road and the overall character of the historic
Lower Green.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I completely went for
broke and suggested the BOS vote to buy the land, ask the Town for $1.65
million at the town meeting that would require, and give our group 12 months to
find the money to buy it back from the Town. If we failed to come up with the
funds to buy all or some of the land, the Town could then sell it for house
lots. John Protopapas pointed out that in that scenario at least the Town could
have some control of what got built.<br />
<br />
The BOS (who clearly want us to find a way to buy this land and keep it in
conservation) decided that it would not be fiscally responsible for the Town to
try and get a $1.65 million loan to buy the land. They pointed out that if our
fundraising was to fail and the town was unable to sell the lots for the full
$1.65 million, the town would have to make up the shortfall.<br />
<br />
Ultimately, the Selectmen decided to send a letter to “Seller” James Connolly
and “Buyer” DePiero and Morris asking them for an extension of the 120 days to
give us more time to come up with funds. THE SELLER AND BUYER ARE UNDER NO OBLIGATION
WHATSOEVER TO AGREE TO GIVE US MORE TIME.<br />
<br />
The Selectmen also decided to NOT formally waive the Town’s right to purchase,
instead continuing the hearing again until January ( <i>I CANNOT REMEMBER
WHEN THE NEXT HEARING IS: CAN SOMEONE LET ME KNOW?</i>), letting the clock run
down to the deadline of January 9,2020. This is to give us until the last days
to find the funding. If by some miracle we manage to find the funds, the Town
will then have 90 days to create a P&S to purchase the land.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">WHAT IS HAPPENING NOW<br />
THE BAD</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
It turns out it’s very hard to collect money for a cause if you want to return
that money to the donors if the project falls apart. John Protopapas and
I tried the local banks – who can’t set up an account unless we are an existing
501(c)3 nonprofit. Jessica Brown contacted the Essex Community Foundation – but
if we set up a fund, those donations will stay with the charity if we fail,
plus it costs a bit of money to set up. The same is true of GoFundMe online.<br />
Since we are still facing such a long shot of success, I think that rather than
trying to get an actual fund set up now to take deposits we should take <i>pledges</i> for
donations (names contact info, how much they want to donate). I can set up a
spreadsheet and we can go after the actual checks if we get close to having
enough money.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">THE GOOD (AND POSSIBLY
GREAT)</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
More and more people are hearing about this and offering to buy green burial
plots, even if so far no big donors have committed money.<br />
<br />
Prudence Fish, a former Newburyport resident, sent a letter read at the second
BOS hearing saying that a Gloucester Eastern Point resident with ties to the
Plummer family wants to help preserve the property. I spoke with Prudence and
she has passed on all my contact information to this person. I have not yet
heard any news but I am delusional/ hopeful.<br />
<br />
Lee Webster of the Green Burial Council has connected me with a group from
Concord, MA called Second Nature which apparently wants to start a conservation
burial ground and has <i>funds</i> but no land. I spoke with someone
from Second Nature who wants to come to Cottage Road next Monday and see the
property for a possible collaboration with us. He seems to think the parcel
sounds perfect for a conservation burial ground, as does Lee Webster. They are
aware of the price tag and our crazy deadline and say they will try to help us
find a solution. It sounds terrific, I have no idea how likely a solution it
will be.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">WHAT TO DO NOW</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Tell EVERYONE you know
(email, FB, text, door to door) that we are looking for funds to preserve this
land and start a conservation burial ground. Give anyone who wants to donate my
phone # (978-270-5939) and email (</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> <a href="mailto:papercarver@comcast.net" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #3c61aa;">papercarver@comcast.net</span></b></a> <b>). I’ll
record their pledge and info.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Could someone post
info about this at the following places: Newbury Library, Newburyport Library,
Newbury Council on Aging, PITA Hall… any other suggestions?</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Write letters (email)
the Daily News. You can tell interested persons to contact you (if you’re
comfortable with that) or me by email.</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Contact anyone who’s
moved away from the area (snowbirds?) who has an interest in the preservation
of Old Town.</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Are there other organizations
in the area who might give us a donation? Does anyone have connections at The
Trustees of Reservation, Historic New England or MA Audubon?</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Does anyone have
contacts at NPR, Boston Globe, WBUR, other places we could get this story out
to a wider audience? We have an original story here: preserving threatened
historic land by creating the first conservation burial ground in
Massachusetts. There are thousands of people out there interested in this
topic!</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">ANY OTHER IDEAS OUT
THERE? GET CRAZY, PEOPLE!</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thanks for getting
this far. Thanks for taking any kind of action. Thanks for caring about this
piece of land and our neighborhood. I hope I’ve answered everyone’s questions -
please feel free to ask or correct of suggest ANYTHING.</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Cheers,<br />
Michele<br />
30 Cottage Road<br />
978-255-1859 (home) 978-270-5939 (mobile) 978-352-5728 (work)<br />
</span></b><a href="mailto:papercarver@comcast.net" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #3c61aa; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">papercarver@comcast.net</span></b></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-960850449893517342018-04-11T07:29:00.000-07:002018-10-12T05:00:44.808-07:00GOODBYE OLD HOUSE? NOT YET!<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>PART ONE</b></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>SAVING THE WORST OF THE WORST</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
As a new Realtor I decided to specialize in selling antique or historically significant houses and that is what I did for more than 25 years. From the beginning I felt compelled to come to the rescue of the worst, endangered houses that came on the market causing one broker to announce that "Pru doesn't work for the buyer or the seller. She works for the old house." Selling old wrecks did not make me rich. In fact, I probably earned the lowest commissions in the business because I sold the cheapest houses, all of them worthy of restoration.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
One of the first was an old center chimney house, the Conant house, dating to 1775 in Ipswich, the town where I worked. The salvage rights to the old center chimney house had been sold. After the house was removed the land would be sold as a house lot. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhV1lKAoCIeVcT2l1n0vkx8ZSVndFTscl7Sfx6nKFDMF7CGB-iHKjJMgS2HcerQMKwV5dC_ZEIOZ-a85OgFs4VuypIrESoq6p_qhjqM8HslgntmAtVkBi3V1a_Qk82Ktw0LgX7CYfNlc/s1600/Conant+House%252C+315+Linebrook+Rd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="913" data-original-width="1400" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhV1lKAoCIeVcT2l1n0vkx8ZSVndFTscl7Sfx6nKFDMF7CGB-iHKjJMgS2HcerQMKwV5dC_ZEIOZ-a85OgFs4VuypIrESoq6p_qhjqM8HslgntmAtVkBi3V1a_Qk82Ktw0LgX7CYfNlc/s320/Conant+House%252C+315+Linebrook+Rd.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What could look worse than this? There was moss on the<br />
floors! Notice on the left the roof of an ancient<br />
rusted out school bus in the bushes!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The salvage man removed paneling and was seen carrying the panels out to his truck. The historical commission stepped in and persuaded the salvage man to stop while I listed the property. The house would be sold by the salvage man as personal property and the land sold by the owner as real estate. A buyer was found and the house was saved.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-YpRjDbVnqPnaqqCxPyL1fpzuo_TeFU1t9KLD9K_ZufPTvs4PSNDU-41yufP0gJEBwVH-cQTRVwTM941O8cK6ODI5xSYBi2CY-FhPjdCyH9thtb0QZcOikgcHnb9eaC3RySndNjIr2cw/s1600/Linebrook+Road+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="761" data-original-width="1200" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-YpRjDbVnqPnaqqCxPyL1fpzuo_TeFU1t9KLD9K_ZufPTvs4PSNDU-41yufP0gJEBwVH-cQTRVwTM941O8cK6ODI5xSYBi2CY-FhPjdCyH9thtb0QZcOikgcHnb9eaC3RySndNjIr2cw/s320/Linebrook+Road+house.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Here is the house today. Many years have passed since the owner toiled there in all kinds of weather saving the house which has housed his family ever since. The primitive fence and the vegetation protect the house from the road. The yard is not manicured but more in tune with its 18th century roots. The solar panels are a nod toward the 21st century on the south facing roof.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*******************************************************************************</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Shortly thereafter, I became a part owner of another central chimney house, the Moses Jewett house, dating to 1759. </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNR2zDRNhUHMDNffCqHtVDGKFUmFGpKlb2lqLUhwBRNvLBxT-cvV3XR1NoWcyNJM-04YO45mva6EvdridjR6-H6eF5zICmtS_GU3_TKIutHUNNwP2c7H6Wusd9UorD9GjuNWMxJmCYsZM/s1600/Date+on+the+chimney.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNR2zDRNhUHMDNffCqHtVDGKFUmFGpKlb2lqLUhwBRNvLBxT-cvV3XR1NoWcyNJM-04YO45mva6EvdridjR6-H6eF5zICmtS_GU3_TKIutHUNNwP2c7H6Wusd9UorD9GjuNWMxJmCYsZM/s400/Date+on+the+chimney.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">Tired old house with date on the chimney and Greek Revival door surround.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
As naive buyers we thought we could just fix it up, sell it and make a nice profit. We soon realized we were dealing with a serious antique house and knew that we had to do a good job and respect it as the landmark that it was. And that is what we did, learning a tremendous amount along the way as we did our homework and proceeded carefully.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
We didn't make any money on this restoration. Antique houses do not make good projects for speculation. However, we researched and learned more than we ever could have without this hands on experience. Restoration is doubly hard when the house will be sold and you have no idea who the buyer will be so you try to get it right but also try to incorporate features that will appeal to a broad range of buyers. Our understanding and appreciation of old houses was greatly advanced by this experience.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje17lXXo1SCDrdOdeiybeJJQzGqvz7cS2UDc7_S7fHZcdNo2Av96sfCBoYPrq3IJvTiFS8gj8YtUfkfOM7PNPDRuyb9l5uuLTDc70XO6XsoVvCcH2iNm_5uKJtzm7Zf7FcESrmwYAeQG8/s1600/Post+Road+in+the+fall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1059" data-original-width="1600" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje17lXXo1SCDrdOdeiybeJJQzGqvz7cS2UDc7_S7fHZcdNo2Av96sfCBoYPrq3IJvTiFS8gj8YtUfkfOM7PNPDRuyb9l5uuLTDc70XO6XsoVvCcH2iNm_5uKJtzm7Zf7FcESrmwYAeQG8/s400/Post+Road+in+the+fall.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is the house. Restorers did not paint the trim, only the sash.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
All of the houses illustrated here have been brought back from ruins. We tend to think of them as a permanent restoration but without care they can start to slide down hill again. These houses are definitely a success story...hopefully for the ages.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
******************************************</div>
<br />
Another house that I sold was an 18th century half house needing everything. It was dismal. There was a dead rat in the toilet.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifjaH5F-IWuykUDyUsDol7Abq1vFHR9oF8c9KhixF-4x-zE2lcP2C4qsVLf3ueFt3WjwN366A98tbQLEBvHDg8rihnBl1eD9v4oE4JHQkJ1Il_hWzmsp8qtHouUClUVNhpG3vf84OvraE/s1600/east+st.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="995" data-original-width="1418" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifjaH5F-IWuykUDyUsDol7Abq1vFHR9oF8c9KhixF-4x-zE2lcP2C4qsVLf3ueFt3WjwN366A98tbQLEBvHDg8rihnBl1eD9v4oE4JHQkJ1Il_hWzmsp8qtHouUClUVNhpG3vf84OvraE/s400/east+st.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was a pretty dismal house before experienced <br />
restorers turned the situation around.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was purchased by a young couple trying to find a good antique in Ipswich. They had the energy and the smarts to know what to do with it.<br />
<br />
At the closing the representative of the estate said they had a few things still to take out of the house.<br />
<br />
Shortly after the closing I had a call from a very irate buyer. Not one thing had been removed from this stuffed, miserable house. After a day the buyers started hauling it out and leaving it at the curb. The piles extended way beyond their own frontage and was quite a sight to behold.<br />
<br />
Finally the sellers came to grips with the problem and sent teenagers with a truck to remove the stuff to a barn somewhere. It was just tossed into the truck as it had been tossed to the curb. I have often wondered if anyone ever went through it or found anything to save.<br />
<br />
Maybe the contents weren't worth saving but the house was. It was beautifully saved and attractively painted. It is very much a credit to the neighborhood but most importantly, it was saved.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7v9pWZYm28oR4V6EOOWUXf2fYx0dN1KWeCq5ZECCMwrXera3enbaoKpGPoNLNNipFWudFy2z1BOC8LC_eQ4fJ0sKYh6p3oLff-ktq8q-gDKLnBrG1FjKjt4Y4ghvrl9ztP353qKeom7k/s1600/East+St.+half+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1197" data-original-width="1600" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7v9pWZYm28oR4V6EOOWUXf2fYx0dN1KWeCq5ZECCMwrXera3enbaoKpGPoNLNNipFWudFy2z1BOC8LC_eQ4fJ0sKYh6p3oLff-ktq8q-gDKLnBrG1FjKjt4Y4ghvrl9ztP353qKeom7k/s640/East+St.+half+house.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What could be more charming that this sweet old house. It has come a very long way.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
********************************************************************************<br />
<br />
Today, as I write this, it is April first which many people around here remember for the April Fools Day Blizzard. At the height of this late in the season blizzard an enormous, ancient tree fell on a shabby old house. The oak summer beam under which the owner was sitting on the second floor saved her as the tree crashed through the house. She was carried out without even shoes never to return as the inhabitant of the old house.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Part of the house was early first period, perhaps just before 1700. As the old house broker in town I got the job of selling the wrecked house which was in bad shape before the tree fell. It was purchased by a contractor and became a lovely home.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIrX3Shsvu-zt_bztvk6txUNVLIpZD4Cjj8oben86Y3BPNjv-2EG9zN60dkcNBnuy0e0ni4ntJgSZq8QJrfky3AeO5ktaePAGMuMhDypLs_T-krK_CZjXDg82nIu5Kjaax-QuPX3j9CSI/s1600/Mineral+Street.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="363" data-original-width="492" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIrX3Shsvu-zt_bztvk6txUNVLIpZD4Cjj8oben86Y3BPNjv-2EG9zN60dkcNBnuy0e0ni4ntJgSZq8QJrfky3AeO5ktaePAGMuMhDypLs_T-krK_CZjXDg82nIu5Kjaax-QuPX3j9CSI/s400/Mineral+Street.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The front of the house with the Greek Revival doorway dating from the <br />
Ephraim Harris period of ownership. The house was originally on <br />
Market St. and moved to this location before Central Street was <br />
laid out.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="326" src="https://ipswich.files.wordpress.com/2014/04/ephraim_harris_c_1696_22_mineral.jpg?w=350&h=286" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The house is looking great but no one has replaced the Victorian door!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This house has had a happy ending and is once again a nice antique first period house. It may date to the 1690's making it one of the rare surviving houses from the 17th century.<br />
<br />
*****************************************************************<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
As a new Realtor I decided to specialize in selling antique or historically significant houses and that is what I did for more than 25 years. From the beginning I felt compelled to come to the rescue of the worst, most endangered houses that came on the market. Selling old wrecks did not make me rich. In fact, I probably earned the lowest commissions in the business because I sold the cheapest houses, all of them worthy of restoration. Some of the houses I sold were beautiful and in top condition but I didn't discriminate. If it was a wreck I tried to find a buyer who would save it disregarding the fact that the sale might be harder to put together and the commission much smaller than the norm.<br />
<br />
On one of my first days as a new realtor I drove around with my manager trying to become acquainted with a town with which I was not very familiar. Eventually my manager went back to the office and I struck out by myself to explore my new trade area.<br />
<br />
Driving down a country road as I was approaching a dead end I suddenly saw the most impressive old house. With its lean-to roof almost touching the ground it was a dramatic sight made more dramatic by a run down neighborhood, remains of an old slaughter house across the street and other unsavory buildings. Returning to the office my manager offered to go back down there to see this great house in this bizarre neighborhood.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRRMYiPqwDEHYUV71OX7sMTOS_kvJ-M76X0FeX2-qQQ3L9s3Hi1vXv4LlcxgpOIWlZb8eGn9Gv5x60eN4aEaJ2wRPSY_c2VUCQmlaUHgHvPaSOhowWUCjahrAfwblyyFGSbQeIoDPdmZ8/s1600/Day+farmouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="177" data-original-width="285" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRRMYiPqwDEHYUV71OX7sMTOS_kvJ-M76X0FeX2-qQQ3L9s3Hi1vXv4LlcxgpOIWlZb8eGn9Gv5x60eN4aEaJ2wRPSY_c2VUCQmlaUHgHvPaSOhowWUCjahrAfwblyyFGSbQeIoDPdmZ8/s400/Day+farmouse.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This dramatic lean-to caught my eye.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After being surrounded by several large dogs and finding no one at home we beat a hasty retrest. Eventually I did get into the house and realized it was first period house. Estimating that it was built at the end of the 17th century would not be an exaggeration.<br />
<br />
There was a strange twist in the story of this house. In the early to mid part of the 20th century it was owned by two brothers who did not get along. The center entrance house was cut in half and one brother moved his half into the nearby forest where he took up residence and lived there until the house burned down.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvC1_rNMBMd-Q3XEVkOZKp_YC0GbYQL7MMXN1ie2gqMYrhYDOzx6UHQaVQ_EaqSlkXX19vGp2kzoyLSDF-FzXGjwvFlCDV24LriAtKOd4nvRXsSF7__sdu7VdAlL_j77xuey2A98DOGPY/s1600/Pine+swamp+cut+in+two.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="306" data-original-width="400" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvC1_rNMBMd-Q3XEVkOZKp_YC0GbYQL7MMXN1ie2gqMYrhYDOzx6UHQaVQ_EaqSlkXX19vGp2kzoyLSDF-FzXGjwvFlCDV24LriAtKOd4nvRXsSF7__sdu7VdAlL_j77xuey2A98DOGPY/s640/Pine+swamp+cut+in+two.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what the Day farmhouse looked like after being severed into two pieces.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The owner was interested in selling the acreage that went with the house and it was sold to a builder. I had envisioned new houses that would compliment the antique house with the old house being the centerpiece of the small subdivision. The prospective buyer had other ideas. He intended to bulldoze the old house.<br />
<br />
A preservationist friend got the salvage rights to the old house and began to carefully dismantle it for reconstruction elsewhere.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAhGOJiuivswi2CR-_d52Y3zyZT2s4PqREQ_aPcu0h5Fs1oeg1zUtfIpIYXnRdeaSEBUVZIUQvCMYliH9jv85-KxKw55f8ZvCQdOGMTVWzMk41RSz-yTj3EFK53eiitvef2EacNjiI8PI/s1600/Pine+Swamp+Road+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="604" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAhGOJiuivswi2CR-_d52Y3zyZT2s4PqREQ_aPcu0h5Fs1oeg1zUtfIpIYXnRdeaSEBUVZIUQvCMYliH9jv85-KxKw55f8ZvCQdOGMTVWzMk41RSz-yTj3EFK53eiitvef2EacNjiI8PI/s320/Pine+Swamp+Road+002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Dramatic lean-to </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The buyer of the salvage rights to the house already owned a Royal Barry Wills cape style house and envisioned the old Day farmhouse becoming the main block of a new re-erected Day house with the 20th century cape as an ell. The project came together very nicely creating a blend of old and new and assuring a long life for the old Day family homestead.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDRXE09SqbHikBh-dQEcpVHpJoOjkzld-kPKDCPbrY1TrB0jVGTTUg0eW6mIALpFDrzSSTzNKBdEs8iGH2qDXYMs7D5uqkMXYtoIZBv43dRhARKDmzCZDzK7xhzpHsqZVUbwfQ5cXI2us/s1600/New+Image.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDRXE09SqbHikBh-dQEcpVHpJoOjkzld-kPKDCPbrY1TrB0jVGTTUg0eW6mIALpFDrzSSTzNKBdEs8iGH2qDXYMs7D5uqkMXYtoIZBv43dRhARKDmzCZDzK7xhzpHsqZVUbwfQ5cXI2us/s320/New+Image.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Day house reassembled.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbsDI21CRHfcZDe3Al9z_2QS4MHQMPD_8-vJMCRiJ0wdT_NysXvagTwrSAapkz7AddtoaN87-ji1mYIoBZzd11C2m7M-OXVwWnOJkyXyOGWhgdN0Uvt7_KHoql2gPJyuh0oKvQGBFlpY/s1600/Day+Farm+in+Boxford.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="400" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbsDI21CRHfcZDe3Al9z_2QS4MHQMPD_8-vJMCRiJ0wdT_NysXvagTwrSAapkz7AddtoaN87-ji1mYIoBZzd11C2m7M-OXVwWnOJkyXyOGWhgdN0Uvt7_KHoql2gPJyuh0oKvQGBFlpY/s640/Day+Farm+in+Boxford.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">PART TWO</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>SORRY TO SAY, THEY DON'T ALL MAKE IT</b><br />
<br />
THE RUSSELL FARM<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
One of my earliest exposures to restoration, preservation and saving an old house was in the 1940's when my parents took rides into the country to watch the progress of a house being restored. I don't remember any particular details other than my parents being very interested in the progress.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Probably fifteen years later I found myself as a teenager spending time in that rural neighborhood as baby sitter for a neighbor. At this time the restored house was occupied by a well to do doctor and his family. I still remembered its restoration.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_TEjrLz7dY_Xw2mo31WcvaNcdX-2DVj-8yvLp8jT5HlmtogU6g2Lskkh5gZHngNbEn13IRaX-dCJNsA7wIuPxmVDZC_9rjupagO2lwkFt0RasG4AY8P_UjcV_qLPY27KoXZNJSYAMv9o/s1600/Russell+Farm%252C+Winchendon+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1258" data-original-width="1600" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_TEjrLz7dY_Xw2mo31WcvaNcdX-2DVj-8yvLp8jT5HlmtogU6g2Lskkh5gZHngNbEn13IRaX-dCJNsA7wIuPxmVDZC_9rjupagO2lwkFt0RasG4AY8P_UjcV_qLPY27KoXZNJSYAMv9o/s320/Russell+Farm%252C+Winchendon+001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Time moved on and I had no occasion to see the old house for many years. I lived at least a two hour drive from there.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
By the 1980's I was selling real estate and meeting people and making new friends who had an interest in old houses. From time to time with these new friends we would head out for the back roads of New England, exploring the countryside looking for interesting antique houses. On one such trip we were in the vicinity of the "restored" house. I wanted my friends to see this lovely house.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhp3b1g21stUSKMIL1mNkI_E1Ze3b9WmdkS1muyD1zuWW6KBFEWdle7VZv4qbb-94eB-tJKGUVWS_59fgARMCe-tBVeUv5YBV3v3jeJYEH0qW4bQW0bdUA1z1rpyb2AiSaUdHbOBZur9E/s1600/Russell+farm+MHC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="912" data-original-width="1330" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhp3b1g21stUSKMIL1mNkI_E1Ze3b9WmdkS1muyD1zuWW6KBFEWdle7VZv4qbb-94eB-tJKGUVWS_59fgARMCe-tBVeUv5YBV3v3jeJYEH0qW4bQW0bdUA1z1rpyb2AiSaUdHbOBZur9E/s640/Russell+farm+MHC.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">In 1987 the house was beginning its downhill spiral but still attractive.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
When we pulled up in front of the house my heart sank. The house looked terrible. There were blankets nailed up over the windows in lieu of curtains. The barn had burned and there were derelict vehicles littering the yard. I was dismayed to say the least.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Several times since then I have returned and the scene only worsened. By the 1990's the house was unoccupied and uninhabitable. By 2010 or so the house was wide open. We walked inside but felt it was not safe. Animals had been living in there. Even I, the die hard preservationist, deemed that it was beyond repair.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ZxXLZgkKJWej9aRQO-sopTjDVsJG6bwu4-r0zpxzzSUBFTb3AjsQ-Q3-MgyBRxDeS-fKzPLII7HVykW9kc1P6qt1Q1qcLCEtZNVQHYDrh4Axm9kr4F13WSIlhE6EBh5wLuJ72jRL5BM/s1600/Winchendon+Russell+Farm+Rd.%252C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ZxXLZgkKJWej9aRQO-sopTjDVsJG6bwu4-r0zpxzzSUBFTb3AjsQ-Q3-MgyBRxDeS-fKzPLII7HVykW9kc1P6qt1Q1qcLCEtZNVQHYDrh4Axm9kr4F13WSIlhE6EBh5wLuJ72jRL5BM/s640/Winchendon+Russell+Farm+Rd.%252C.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">This photo is from the town assessors' records taken in the last<br />
few years. Is it still standing? I'm not sure but I wouldn't be<br />
surprised to find it gone. The chimney still looks good!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I haven't been back for several years and not sure if the house is still standing. What a shocker. It had been "saved" once. How could this have happened? Obviously, nicely restored houses, once saved from the wrecking ball, are not always saved forever.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
I found a listing for the land surrounding this poor house. It offered an update and on this property. Did the brokers even know that this had been a stately Federal period house, now reduced to being a dilapidated farmhouse? In just a matter of time until these acres will probably be dotted with new houses. Here is an undated real estate advertisement for the property. </div>
<div class="row" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-left: -8px; margin-right: -8px;">
</div>
<div class="pdp-overview ldp-section-mobile-card" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333;">
<div aria-expanded="true" class="margin-top-lg clearfix details-load-more details-more-placeholder" data-readmore="" id="rmjs-1" style="box-sizing: border-box; height: 73px; margin-top: 15px; max-height: none; overflow: hidden; transition: height 100ms; width: 941px;">
<div class="word-wrap-break" id="ldp-detail-romance" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 10px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<div style="font-family: roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">
<i><span class="font-bold" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Property Overview</span> - Drastically reduced, Vacant land with Dilapidated Farmhouse. Ample frontage on both sides of street may allow for multiple home sites. Buyer to verify all dimensions and perform due </i><i>diligenc</i>e</div>
<div style="font-family: roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">
<b>Post Script</b></div>
<div style="font-family: roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
On a beautiful sunny morning this week with two friends I took a road trip to see for myself what was happening to the house before reporting the final chapter. Was I prepared for what I would find? The answer is no! Not surprised or prepared. This photo says it all. There are no words.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUsGgYioHlFfBHd-xSpg6wKWIRyC9i4LrR66kcxHvSCnnIejhkuHja7-DSQ1zDXsDSsPIl-vNHBNCHERvKKJqoevZIDXMvxAnuWFp7YjlSNPmYyzHUNsm_l62ncKrNEvst5-OsjnwuSvU/s1600/Russell+Farm%252C+Winchendon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUsGgYioHlFfBHd-xSpg6wKWIRyC9i4LrR66kcxHvSCnnIejhkuHja7-DSQ1zDXsDSsPIl-vNHBNCHERvKKJqoevZIDXMvxAnuWFp7YjlSNPmYyzHUNsm_l62ncKrNEvst5-OsjnwuSvU/s400/Russell+Farm%252C+Winchendon.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It is hard to believe that this is a house that this house was restored during my lifetime and now this.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
There was no sign of the chimneys or bricks anywhere. We wondered if the chimney or chimneys were removed to salvage the bricks leading to this total collapse. That this could happen is a very sobering sight to witness.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXWdkzc8hHpWvX8zXrp7eK_hXmcFVFGo1l3_yR2ijUy4Tga3KJZcNmDmSzgDnRqO9Mi_fDQDnR1OSEpKCElGMdnJxX06aGum25dbGgvnkWB3XsHzgYbKpwEHDm-qaOJkaSn_7gSjtG514/s1600/Russell+farm+debris.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXWdkzc8hHpWvX8zXrp7eK_hXmcFVFGo1l3_yR2ijUy4Tga3KJZcNmDmSzgDnRqO9Mi_fDQDnR1OSEpKCElGMdnJxX06aGum25dbGgvnkWB3XsHzgYbKpwEHDm-qaOJkaSn_7gSjtG514/s400/Russell+farm+debris.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
That's all that's left.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
*********************************************************************************</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
ELM FARM</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9C4IkLE5sIYrw83DInZXJqG_Jr700fpr_VIE96FK7RmulPlp5wfJIzKvLfU1iTUUDkXxGOIJswjPFVnTrlUY58BD_CFtPUyMSnhL89SR3i69r9XJHfUaRBlwhpxO0VJnV36WVzmw_Hw/s400/Charles+lane+tree.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sorry this old Polaroid photo is blurred but the best I could do.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
In my home town from which I had been separated for maybe forty years was a wonderful old house known as Elm Farm or the Fisher Farm. It was never in good condition even when I was very young. On return visits, maybe once a year I lamented the condition of this house.</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Relatives in my home town knew of my interest in what had been a great old house dating to 1790. Each time I visited I inquired about the house. I'm sure they thought I was a little strange if not downright crazy to be interested in this two hundred year old derelict house.<br />
<br />
Here is what happened on one of my visits.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
It was about a week before the 4th of July and the town fathers insisted that the old, unoccupied house be removed before the 4th of July, about a week away, fearing that if someone set fire to the house a transformer outside the house could plunge a large area into darkness. The only reason the house was still standing was because the town had been unable to find a landfill that was willing take the house. What an ignominious end for a grand old house!</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I quickly grabbed a phone and called an old house salvage company with which I was familiar and told them the story. It had to be removed on the double or would be bulldozed. The salvage shop owner got right on it and called another company in Connecticut for extra help. This all took place on a Sunday afternoon.<br />
<br />
I also called one of the selectmen for the town to plead for an extension but they wouldn't hear of it. There had already been extensions and there would be no more.<br />
<br />
I then called the chair of the Historical Commission who was most sympathetic but whose hands were tied and could not do any more than had already been done in an attempt to save the house. The end was in sight.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
True to their word the salvage people were there the next morning taking the house apart just as fast as they could. There was no time to photograph and label the parts for complete reconstruction on a new site. By Friday it was all down except for a very few pieces. The wreckers wouldn't or couldn't wait any longer. The engines were revving and moving forward. The salvage men had done all they could and almost all of the pieces and parts were saved and available to others for incorporation into restorations jobs elsewhere. The wreckers were impatient.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrNcBci4mFSLO-7opmx0AXJA6eHoO0SpAGPHuIsJS8btA30847mpIdvvwTpSB6u-ZlDd4OVOmiwPNJMba_Pw9VAHe_vl4Hn0-mTkiJefHuumUjkNIvJoVwUhCVGI_ODgX17A3G8TdibXA/s640/Fisher+house+before+demolition.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My son, Bob, and I made the two hour trip to see for ourselves what was going on.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It was a sad ending but better to have only the left over debris go to the landfill and not the major elements of the house especially the frame and the beautiful front door and surround.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGKcUerO32Kp4xhBXA3z31MvNzNRxitdrEjqJCRptXk9IGBMR9H5RhhjfzqUGXq-s9M2bChiPznzxoEsKUsFHFfspXvrgp4C3cReAuOdcoMP7gVKNVG28u_MLylNfRJ5UY2kdqD3I8-Qk/s640/Demolition+2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Son, Bob, looking at the devastated house.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For those interested I wrote a more detailed history of this house four years ago. It can be found on this blog. It was called "Could This House Have Been Saved".<br />
<br />
https://prudencefish.blogspot.com/2014/01/could-this-house-have-been-saved.html<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxFa9a01PNU2-bQDPtWQ1Xmg_k9NG0ZOBo_eUz91oT1QgB5T0ePPTLTUbEwqglMg-kqDc9Mwe70qVhyviuE0In1ZGMBjXhezY1-WCAVQ1bYY89t-pAjdWzA1DhusVVt7HT8LEI0vJRt54/s400/Front+door.jpg" width="268" /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The house had a very fine fanlight doorway. I don't know where it went but it must be gracing someone's restoration somewhere. Maybe in my travel some day I will recognize it on another lovely old house that someone did save.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The bottom line is that it is best to rescue these houses but sometimes it is just too late.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-25497431021657517682018-03-31T06:33:00.000-07:002018-03-31T06:33:28.962-07:00EZRA PHILLIPS; AN ARCHITECT FOR GLOUCESTER 1870-1937<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #660000;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><b>CHANGING THE FACE OF GLOUCESTER, ONE BUILDING AT A TIME</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #274e13;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
One man, Ezra Lunt Phillips, changed the face of Gloucester, There is no doubt about it.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My acquaintance with the legacy of Ezra Phillips began about 1987. At a yard sale I discovered a photograph printed from a glass plate negative. It was labeled, "Ezra Phillips in his new car".<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYyJGjI1llb8h5hVARIraogAXZQ7ZD57p9bqOaBA8_2GzSZ7wifbkZEzJDvuyEMYgKF4zQgWz5YL5datQ4TAcB_C6iShRzRmdA_Q7V80jpuVOpWWwhJMn1Z9N5JAlVwnWHJL7O1WwWUzs/s1600/Ezra+phillips+in+his+new+car.tif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="387" data-original-width="543" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYyJGjI1llb8h5hVARIraogAXZQ7ZD57p9bqOaBA8_2GzSZ7wifbkZEzJDvuyEMYgKF4zQgWz5YL5datQ4TAcB_C6iShRzRmdA_Q7V80jpuVOpWWwhJMn1Z9N5JAlVwnWHJL7O1WwWUzs/s320/Ezra+phillips+in+his+new+car.tif" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ezra Phillips in his new car</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img height="211" src="https://enduringgloucesterdotcom1.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/2.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
</div>
At that exact same time a Gloucester couple, Susan and Rick Richter, were restoring a large house on Edgemore Rd. My friend was curious and said, "Who do you suppose that is?". To which I replied that I knew who he was...the architect of the very house on Edgemore Road that was built at the turn of the 20th century and in 1987 being restored. I had seen the original plans with his name on them. Only then did I realize the image of Ezra Phillips depicted him sitting in his new car and looking a Balmaha, still under construction. The same beautiful house that was then, in 1987, being restored by the Richters.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDxCJPCrd3E9rLkBsMsQtQ3RWI7xnczyikfGBchAqXva53N3An1QePsVoe75HC668QoTopiLfc_tC82eOMXRBaxx3fEfQTljaxhnR9y-gP0Ud_JPYet3b4W9IjjZI23mWyj-rTUcwy8A/s400/Balmaha.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Balmaha, Edgemoor, Road</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This was the beginning of my interest in the life and work of Ezra Phillips. I purchased the photo. It was copied and shared with the Richters, their brokers, the new owners and others. It was a wonderful coincidence and incredibly timely.<br />
<br />
Ezra Lunt Phillips was born Fed. 9, 1870. The family then lived at 17 Washington Square. His parents were Nathan and Maria.<br />
<br />
Ezra's father was a successful flour dealer. His business was on the right hand corner of what is now Main St. and Duncan Street.<br />
<br />
By the early 1890s Ezra had opened an architecture office at 4 Pleasant St. and was still boarding at home but by 1896 he owned the property on Gloucester Avenue that was to be his home for the rest of his life. The address changed several times but it was always the same house.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJsa1CNkh_JmmYYJi3iMhb31lK2R0Q54Ycxp94lHeCAfvrO-C7AuEv9Xk2OriwBFidvDaARQsdSZAajPK3RNIFdmwZYh8cBnoC0sHgCxP_R8IxEAQwV4JuAFE33cY_hBOLwOgNgzbam4c/s1600/30+Gloucester%252C+Ave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJsa1CNkh_JmmYYJi3iMhb31lK2R0Q54Ycxp94lHeCAfvrO-C7AuEv9Xk2OriwBFidvDaARQsdSZAajPK3RNIFdmwZYh8cBnoC0sHgCxP_R8IxEAQwV4JuAFE33cY_hBOLwOgNgzbam4c/s400/30+Gloucester%252C+Ave.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Phillips House, 30 Gloucester Ave.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
He was now married, his wife was named Grace and they had two children, Elizabeth and Nathan.<br />
<br />
By 1902, after living for many years on Washington Square, his father, Nathan and mother, Maria, moved to the large house at 159 Washington St. on the corner of Derby Street. This is a lovely house but it is not known if Ezra had a hand in its building or renovation. The family also had a summer home at Agamenticus Heights, (Wolf Hill area) overlooking the Russia Cement Company, (LePages) with which they family was involved.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhydVQ7EFhNAZmIkkWaqjQ1AIFcQxbGlDtrCSlyqwfq0XhUcTPGIt6rCbKQU_1CIHme3_fDSioHZVMdsW1JmKJi3RUteq7THiKJ4_swXTFLy9Wx7WTfq1DvtNm9KPIlKWgGfAFJP_P4y_0/s1600/159+washington.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhydVQ7EFhNAZmIkkWaqjQ1AIFcQxbGlDtrCSlyqwfq0XhUcTPGIt6rCbKQU_1CIHme3_fDSioHZVMdsW1JmKJi3RUteq7THiKJ4_swXTFLy9Wx7WTfq1DvtNm9KPIlKWgGfAFJP_P4y_0/s320/159+washington.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">House at 159 Washington Street</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Ezra Phillips throughout his life contributed more than his architecture to the community. He was very active at Trinity Congregational Church and the YMCA.<br />
<br />
In addition to volunteer organizations he was vice president of the Gloucester Safe Deposit and Trust Co., the Cape Ann Savings Bank, treasurer of the Cape Ann Anchor works, Russia Cement Co. (LePages) the Gloucester Coal and Lumber Co, the Rockport Granite Co. and a charter member of the Rotary. Where did he find time to design all the beautiful buildings?<br />
<br />
Nathan Phillips passed away in 1905 but his widow, Maria, continued on living in the large house on the corner of Derby Street.<br />
<br />
By 1926 Timothy Holloran had joined the architectural firm which then became known as Phillips & Holloran. They continued as partners at least through 1935. Ezra Phillips died in 1937 and Holloran continued on alone.<br />
<br />
Eventually Timothy Holloran's son, Robert Holloran, joined his father after graduating from Wentworth Institute. Eventually Robert went to work in Boston at Shepley Bullfinch.<br />
<br />
But during all these years there was a miracle in the making. Ezra Phillips never threw away a single plan and neither did his partner, Timothy Holloran. They were carefully kept and after the death of Timothy this treasure trove, like a pot of gold, descended to Robert Holloran who thoughtfully preserved them.<br />
<br />
Robert Holloran died at a very old age in 2008 and in 2011 the plans were given to the Cape Ann Museum. Here is what is so astonishing. There were more than 300 plans mostly for local buildings! Is it hard for you to get your head around this? There are existing plans for 300 of some of the best and most beautiful buildings on Cape Ann. These plans span the period from about 1890 until the middle of the 20th century.<br />
<br />
Municipal buildings include renovations to the former town house, now known as the American Legion building in preparation for the returning veterans of WWI.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvCu1gsUx6FF0RXRULO06l-p5CMgfdPHaQhyphenhyphenrpGL7_VVUwRZyfvs3toD7dfv8S1cJGdWSVyE-fHrylUxjUBSvNVGI-OgX8JdOdEzVRENQNaI29gRqU-OzpyjPeaZXfMy50WikoqO62Wc/s1600/legion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvCu1gsUx6FF0RXRULO06l-p5CMgfdPHaQhyphenhyphenrpGL7_VVUwRZyfvs3toD7dfv8S1cJGdWSVyE-fHrylUxjUBSvNVGI-OgX8JdOdEzVRENQNaI29gRqU-OzpyjPeaZXfMy50WikoqO62Wc/s400/legion.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Town House, Now American Legion</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There were renovations to Central Grammar, originally built by another native son, Tristram Griffin of Malden. He designed several substantial bank buildings on Main St.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJthELoY31Hrpgx5fPICZkBnXnWLHKAi7a2N4IA_YuFwt-3XDtKag5P8F3B2UjXDvsQ1TEX0Z6DfEowxs3k07SdJpio1jFekduZvXtpdUiiUqF4mNklgK26AFUghZaHkBdraAtGJVKIjc/s1600/Central+Grammar.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="555" data-original-width="835" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJthELoY31Hrpgx5fPICZkBnXnWLHKAi7a2N4IA_YuFwt-3XDtKag5P8F3B2UjXDvsQ1TEX0Z6DfEowxs3k07SdJpio1jFekduZvXtpdUiiUqF4mNklgK26AFUghZaHkBdraAtGJVKIjc/s400/Central+Grammar.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Central Grammar, Dale Avenue</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTUFPmefNvLh8enkRLIrnOcNhbpipikkpuT1VSTvTCfzWIfyxL4kenIPCLA68UzIiSjUpzgVlsWWI7rsuj6B22kyj2E61LpuK8GchhCIV9_xFxcPpErZ4DJIb2NC1GvVwFEbK0coJ8Npo/s1600/Tavern+postcard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="406" data-original-width="640" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTUFPmefNvLh8enkRLIrnOcNhbpipikkpuT1VSTvTCfzWIfyxL4kenIPCLA68UzIiSjUpzgVlsWWI7rsuj6B22kyj2E61LpuK8GchhCIV9_xFxcPpErZ4DJIb2NC1GvVwFEbK0coJ8Npo/s320/Tavern+postcard.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
He built at least one hotel, the Tavern, on the Boulevard that replaced the Surfside.<br />
<br />
In short any building of any consequence renovated or built during more than half a century can usually be credited to Phillips or to Phillips & Holloran after they became partners.<br />
<br />
And how about the countless private residences for which they were responsible?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Gloucester houses. Examples of his work.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://enduringgloucesterdotcom1.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://enduringgloucesterdotcom1.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/4.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://enduringgloucesterdotcom1.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://enduringgloucesterdotcom1.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/31.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://enduringgloucesterdotcom1.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://enduringgloucesterdotcom1.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<img height="211" src="https://enduringgloucesterdotcom1.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/2.jpg" width="320" /><br />
<br />
When all is said and done we now have concrete evidence of the magnitude of the work of Ezra Phillips and continuing with the firm of Phillips & Holloran. Three hundred plus set of drawings documenting the development of this city for more than half a century. What a wealth of information is stored in those tightly rolled up sets of plans. Plans that thankfully have found a permanent home at the Museum. What a legacy for Gloucester!<br />
<br />
Ezra Phillips funeral took place at Trinity Church on Middle Street. Rev. Dwight Cart conducted the service in the place where Phillips had long been a deacon. He was assisted by the former pastor, Rev. Dr. Albert A. Madsen and Rev. Dr. Edmund A. Burnham pastor of the Essex Congregational Church.<br />
<br />
It is fitting that Rev. Cart quoted from Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr, "The Chambered Nautilus" beginning with "Build thee more stately mansions, O my soul".<br />
<br />
He went on to describe Phillip's life as "well designed with nothing cheap and shoddy in its building. A life founded upon faith, built upon quiet service, enhanced by joy and humor, active, alert, community-minded, true to friendship, honest and sincere. One who loved many things and served many interests tirelessly, but whose first love was still his last...his home, and those who have made these wall live by the constancy of their service and affection.<br />
<br />
Few of us have realized that in almost any neighborhood in the City of Gloucester one could look around and probably see the fruit of the three hundred sets of plans designed by him and his partner. But thanks to the museum, they have developed a master list and the buildings can be identified. His buildings are everywhere in Gloucester. Ezra Phillips did change the face of Gloucester.<br />
<br />
Here is an example of how he can still contribute eighty years after his death.<br />
<br />
The Sawyer Free Library is in the midst of discussions concerning the expansion of the library or complete replacement. One of the sections of the library, the stacks section, was built in 1913. It's future is up in the air. The building committee turned to the Cape Ann Museum and of course, it was predictable that they would have the plans for the "fireproof" building. In ascertaining its value this new information about its fireproof construction adds another element in the evaluation and worth of the building. Fireproof? Who knew?<br />
<br />
After the plans arrived in Gloucester at the museum I had the pleasure of trying to track down his descendants. After making calls to places in Vermont and in New York state I finally found his grandson in Northbridge, MA. Although in his eighties, William Christopherson was still very active.<br />
<br />
When I reached him I asked him if he had any heirlooms or trinkets that had come down to him from his grandfather. He told me that he had one thing that belonged to Ezra. I should have been sitting down when he said, "I have his last automobile." One could predict after looking at that early photo of Ezra in front of Balmaha that he would have a special car. It was a name I had never heard. It was from the late 1920s and a rare and expensive roadster. His grandson was perhaps seven or eight years old when Ezra died but he begged his mother to keep the car. She did keep it and can you believe that it is in perfect condition and still on the road! I don't think it gets driven much but the fact that he still has it makes me smile. Now if I could only think of the name.<br />
<br />
We must remember Ezra Phillips for his contributions to his hometown and for all he accomplished in and for the City of Gloucester.<br />
<br />
He quietly changed the face of the City, one building at a time.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #274e13;"><img src="https://enduringgloucesterdotcom1.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/ezra-phillips.jpg?w=264&h=419" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #274e13;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #274e13;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-92186795389600174192018-01-07T15:32:00.001-08:002018-01-07T15:32:24.998-08:00ANOTHER UPDATE ON HANNAH JUMPER'S HOUSE<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
COULD IT GET ANY WORSE?<br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfOeA_Wc6FUeRYoYpIHw8Kv4tdlrjg2PFfnnTW2ryem7yxKlT1Nlsiw-Ygh1UmXgu5UiNZpfEy08bjd2ji8cntObOOomA7wkSqZ-CmVRIteCesUA25Jpy4-tSLa8AupZt-UNyXCssLAyk/s640/Hannah+Jumper+house+2+%25281%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Wherever you are you probably know that New England along with other parts of the country have been putting up with severe cold temperatures compounded by high winds pummeling the area.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The last time I went by the Hannah Jumper house it looked worse than ever. It was jacked up high in the air and more sheathing boards had been removed. I was shocked as there was a wide open view of Rockport Harbor where the house should have been snuggled down close to the ground. Unfortunately, I was not able to take a picture.<br />
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ZVn6XlObL_oZgUi9Ecl58eNVnr9u_uhSYzVIrhfhGbwZL4I-w95WhxEDOSdGKByEK1su5ORPEqiBcAkVd-_LjCSYH_CimiuQuA37AVz7xXTx4T59MrFgJNZCXS387bmZqSOY_JD77Y8/s640/DSC01731%255B1%255D.JPG" /><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Things took a turn for the worse on Thursday when a blizzard struck. As it approached there was a frantic move to lower the house. The snow blew and the wind raged on flooding area that had never been flooded before and people evacuated. I would guess that Hannah Jumper's house clinging there on the edge of the water must have been battered by the water. It probably ran right under the house and out to the street.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Anyway, Rockport held its collective breath. The contractor for the project was frantic.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
But guess what? It is still there. Shaky, pathetic, a shadow of itself, it is still standing after being exposed to nearly hurricane force winds and sub zero temperatures. The old bones of the house are still hanging on. It has been tested.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I think it wants to remain right where it has been since circa 1738 and I hope it does. So far it is a survivor, sort of, but much the worse for wear and what it has been through. It is almost at the point where even the die hard preservationist might say, "Is it really worth it?".<br />
<br />
The blue gate in front of Hannah's house is almost as famous as the house and has been painted by many, many artists. I just noticed that it is still there behind the orange mesh fencing. That's good!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I will keep you posted and crossing my fingers that it turns the corner soon and begins the long road back before the house is buffeted by the winds of another northeaster winter storm.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-78636541007873039482017-12-18T05:51:00.001-08:002017-12-18T13:31:54.989-08:00HANNAH JUMPER'S HOUSE REVISITED!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">YOU WON'T BELIEVE YOUR EYES!</span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfOeA_Wc6FUeRYoYpIHw8Kv4tdlrjg2PFfnnTW2ryem7yxKlT1Nlsiw-Ygh1UmXgu5UiNZpfEy08bjd2ji8cntObOOomA7wkSqZ-CmVRIteCesUA25Jpy4-tSLa8AupZt-UNyXCssLAyk/s1600/Hannah+Jumper+house+2+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="356" data-original-width="640" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfOeA_Wc6FUeRYoYpIHw8Kv4tdlrjg2PFfnnTW2ryem7yxKlT1Nlsiw-Ygh1UmXgu5UiNZpfEy08bjd2ji8cntObOOomA7wkSqZ-CmVRIteCesUA25Jpy4-tSLa8AupZt-UNyXCssLAyk/s640/Hannah+Jumper+house+2+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">Hannah Jumper house in better days.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;">If you haven't read my blog post called "Hannah Jumper's House by the Sea" dated September 22, 2017 maybe you should take a look at that before proceeding with this post. The original post has had a huge number of viewings and comments so I know you will be interested in what happened next.</span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #073763;">The September post left with the house a precarious looking shell. Was it too far gone to save? "Not at all", said an expert who looked at it and still found much to recommend it for preservation.</span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #073763;">A huge problem was that the house had virtually no cellar and was just a humble cottage sitting right on the ground; sills, if there were any, left right in the dirt. It needed a foundation because it had never had one if you can imagine. How did it last for nearly 300 years with its sills right on the dirt and its additions practically sitting on the seawall with rough waters in the harbor lapping at it?</span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #073763;">So it was determined that there must be a foundation built if the house was to remain and be preserved. Our friend, Jim, the expert, suggested a company from out of town capable of performing the work. Building a foundation meant that the house had to be raised up. That made perfect sense but I never imagined just how high it would be raised.</span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #073763;">I had not been back to the Rockport site for quite some time during this busy time of year. But yesterday I was going to attend a nearby Christmas party and knew it was the perfect time to take a look at the progress and take some pictures. </span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #073763;">There have been extremely strong winds blowing around here lately and several had mentioned to me that they feared for the house in its more than fragile state and worried about collapse. </span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #073763;">It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words so without further adieu here are the photos taken December 17th. </span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="color: #073763;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"></span><span style="color: #073763;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRy-Bf17CgVK8gQYuFS9AFO2kper9imxYSrMaxz8Ua9_klbOJBOZIKN2hFNNIbasIceFtSm_pIP7UA8ccYle8mrbfxGlG1P0NlX-FSrvs_elEouJG57AW237Jq66XhbObHIKUxuWXFG58/s1600/DSC01732%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRy-Bf17CgVK8gQYuFS9AFO2kper9imxYSrMaxz8Ua9_klbOJBOZIKN2hFNNIbasIceFtSm_pIP7UA8ccYle8mrbfxGlG1P0NlX-FSrvs_elEouJG57AW237Jq66XhbObHIKUxuWXFG58/s640/DSC01732%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><br />Here is Hannah Jumper's house high and dry with the blue waters of Rockport harbor plainly visible.</span><br />
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">What a shocker. I couldn't believe my eyes. The house was all but blowing in the breeze! The height to which it had been lifted was astonishing.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">As is now plainly seen the right hand end of the house was clearly added to the original center chimney cape built circa 1738, only 20 years shy of being 300 years old.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ZVn6XlObL_oZgUi9Ecl58eNVnr9u_uhSYzVIrhfhGbwZL4I-w95WhxEDOSdGKByEK1su5ORPEqiBcAkVd-_LjCSYH_CimiuQuA37AVz7xXTx4T59MrFgJNZCXS387bmZqSOY_JD77Y8/s1600/DSC01731%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ZVn6XlObL_oZgUi9Ecl58eNVnr9u_uhSYzVIrhfhGbwZL4I-w95WhxEDOSdGKByEK1su5ORPEqiBcAkVd-_LjCSYH_CimiuQuA37AVz7xXTx4T59MrFgJNZCXS387bmZqSOY_JD77Y8/s640/DSC01731%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">It would seem as though there is not enough left to save. Notice the old wood shingles on the roof that had been covered with asphalt shingles in modern times.</span></div>
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTR1_hXIC2XWhQARO2rKpOviGVgIK8XvBsdYA8n-vS1_2uQk9RdFiSnPdvt1TJjCR_hbuDKJsNUp-UQ2q3ekd37k4M6tdbvryaeczY5JEL0yRzmfO4jeTkqnp0TwZwVNCWO8uEhWZBhUk/s1600/DSC01730%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTR1_hXIC2XWhQARO2rKpOviGVgIK8XvBsdYA8n-vS1_2uQk9RdFiSnPdvt1TJjCR_hbuDKJsNUp-UQ2q3ekd37k4M6tdbvryaeczY5JEL0yRzmfO4jeTkqnp0TwZwVNCWO8uEhWZBhUk/s640/DSC01730%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Looking at the addition from this angle it does appears that perhaps this added on building may have been a barn. It is also obvious that a door was crudely patched over when the other door on the left was added.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you look to the right of the Hannah Jumper house you will see another old house that appears to be ripped apart. This was the antique home of a prominent Rockport artist </span></span><span style="color: #073763; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">who passed away recently. The Rockport Historical Commission called in the expert in time to head off mistakes that were about to be made in the restoration/remodeling of this antique house.</span></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAdONrxX88kjnr-wShvg2VALqFS3HTc7DLzif0p9GYdzP6kr0NVUQqCx-Ct_hqPiAdPLUfrJ6EKDBlApnjx7xnjX462xmvErbjIdUDSvsYC9Q2r5SuGBFtWtAx0A0ZXWKK6IVyO3Mk4Co/s1600/DSC01733%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAdONrxX88kjnr-wShvg2VALqFS3HTc7DLzif0p9GYdzP6kr0NVUQqCx-Ct_hqPiAdPLUfrJ6EKDBlApnjx7xnjX462xmvErbjIdUDSvsYC9Q2r5SuGBFtWtAx0A0ZXWKK6IVyO3Mk4Co/s640/DSC01733%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="text-align: left;">It does seem that we haven't seen the final chapter to this story. And I hope not. Fingers crossed that the final chapter will not be of the house collapsing during a storm into the harbor. I will keep you posted and let's hope it survives the northeast storms of the winter. Rockport can't escape enduring some rough weather in the winter. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifxwlcFv0QJv0RxuEXjQo0MM5O7oOfLLLzv9gjfu7BSZci9_z3fPp1JYFbLYDb_jCEdc9FYixl8fzRO7ZzHqJFGN99qBL8jYzRH3NBQv7E-QhUsYQoGzLsgxwufIr91TdblR4c6yhg0Ag/s1600/Motif+number+one.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="326" data-original-width="483" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifxwlcFv0QJv0RxuEXjQo0MM5O7oOfLLLzv9gjfu7BSZci9_z3fPp1JYFbLYDb_jCEdc9FYixl8fzRO7ZzHqJFGN99qBL8jYzRH3NBQv7E-QhUsYQoGzLsgxwufIr91TdblR4c6yhg0Ag/s320/Motif+number+one.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After the blizzard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzq47fVpFwQ7FY6Ahx-p4J-MobLVAe4Z8A-G92UoHU4oqe4Mw3gBaEtDz1n1vobaf_2A9-o_QEkJr874ytGnAQ6x00SYRN6zfmuMb_32slOQhJ5-C9jYEuDuawbTMkVXL_Y2icGns9XHk/s1600/Motif+One.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzq47fVpFwQ7FY6Ahx-p4J-MobLVAe4Z8A-G92UoHU4oqe4Mw3gBaEtDz1n1vobaf_2A9-o_QEkJr874ytGnAQ6x00SYRN6zfmuMb_32slOQhJ5-C9jYEuDuawbTMkVXL_Y2icGns9XHk/s320/Motif+One.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">Quickly reproduced and back to normal</span> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br />Here is the sad picture of Motif # 1, Rockport's famous red fish shack as it slowly toppled overboard into the harbor during the famous blizzard of 1978. It was quickly reproduced and folks have almost forgotten that the much painted shack is not the original built in 1840.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="text-align: left;"> The Hannah Jumper house looks pretty frail but maybe those huge framing beams from which it was built so long ago can withstand a little more abuse before the house is stabilized on its new foundation.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="text-align: left;">I wish I could hang a Christmas wreath on the front door to show that we care but that is impossible. The door is now out of reach and being on the short side I would need a ladder. And being well aware of the reputation of the Rockport police who don't miss a trick, I would never get away with it. But I do hope the new year is a better one for Hannah's old house.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="text-align: left;">Merry Christmas to all readers of my blog, many of whom are doing their part toward saving our architectural heritage. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="text-align: left;">To be continued!</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="text-align: left;">Pru</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<br /></div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-14496263877573199872017-12-05T06:02:00.002-08:002017-12-07T09:10:21.096-08:00LITTLE ANTIQUE CAPE, LOST AND FOUND Part 2<br />
This post will be brief compared to recent posts but I have some more information about the old cape and its odyssey around New England.<br />
<br />
It was 1988 when the Kenyon's abandoned the idea of getting the little house put back together for their new home. They had built their new post and beam house on their land in Gloucester so they advertised the old cape for sale all numbered and ready to go for $19,500. It was advertised in Maine Antique Digest. Obviously, it didn't sell. I would guess that at the time of the advertising it was in the cellar of the new house which is where I saw it for the last time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRLIlCP8Ra4xRucP8baSsaVURgqeuyqrGuS3PAaEI6jBxtTIyVdG3lsNns7RUGbDO9u54JBLYVis2TTSLGScYY29SCIkLJ0gaiqgJRmBw01QgjyYKWwRwzuMTsHSpy_Z0cDuwLhe4yCeU/s1600/Ad+for+the+Georgetown+Cape.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1268" data-original-width="848" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRLIlCP8Ra4xRucP8baSsaVURgqeuyqrGuS3PAaEI6jBxtTIyVdG3lsNns7RUGbDO9u54JBLYVis2TTSLGScYY29SCIkLJ0gaiqgJRmBw01QgjyYKWwRwzuMTsHSpy_Z0cDuwLhe4yCeU/s640/Ad+for+the+Georgetown+Cape.JPG" width="428" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
It was finally sold to Tom Farmer from Falmouth, Maine. The Kenyon's had taken it from Massachusetts to Northport Maine in a school bus. Tom Farmer probably had it for quite some time but that is just a guess.<br />
<br />
The new owner bought it from Tom Farmer as recently as the spring 2014 and they moved it to Casco, Maine a distance of 35 miles.They had looked at it in the previous fall of 2013 but did not buy it at that time.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXmiVqiRuO6_R3MgT93FGO2KCFwKJAXLQRXl0UcBCL9lOWfM7awo-VYPga4wI96jSDPB2MwFWASpPLq-9tssevXCjoqBbo5JGY4o4u_kP0JfABAbCju9E-6Xt7c3Mr-cEoittxRhtw8zA/s1600/Cheryl+in+from+of+her+MA+mantel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1104" data-original-width="828" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXmiVqiRuO6_R3MgT93FGO2KCFwKJAXLQRXl0UcBCL9lOWfM7awo-VYPga4wI96jSDPB2MwFWASpPLq-9tssevXCjoqBbo5JGY4o4u_kP0JfABAbCju9E-6Xt7c3Mr-cEoittxRhtw8zA/s400/Cheryl+in+from+of+her+MA+mantel.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">Here is Cheryl, the owner, in front of her fireplace mantle<br />
that was salvaged from another house in Massachusett.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
In 2014 Tom Farmer revealed that it was about to be moved to Ohio.<br />
<br />
Others had hesitated to buy it because the Kenyons had marked all of the pieces with oil based paint. Potential buyers must have thought the removal would be a problem. Cheryl, the new<br />
owner bought a Quonset hut in which to store the old house and the rest went into her cellar. Like deja vous for the traveling house.<br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cheryl belongs to a reenactment group where she depicts the 1760’s - 1820’s with the Ancient Ones of Maine (a living history group)</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Here is what she said about her purchase and what she did with itl</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">"<i>I was in love with the gun stock posts so they were high on my priority list. </i></span></span><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> In the end I needed a garage/barn more than I needed a full size Cape so I opted to build a barn and a mudroom addition onto my retirement home. The mudroom was made using various parts of the Georgetown Cape."</span></i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">So now the work began using the parts of the old house.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">"The mudroom was made using as many of the gunstock</span></i></span><br />
<i style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"> posts as I could! The ceiling was made w boards from the Pine trees removed to make way for the barn and mudroom. </span></i><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSV6dk5Gud_SdYMtX-LYX9zrfcUNfgbM2fbmUFpYlu8d3JPwm2tzh3wSbW9VfnsV3buzDMIgXnmHJb724AwNg0pQQiwmO0flmCqAaKBNON9zfvBYGVOkBjTLARYCb_Db7rztqYdThfkYY/s1600/Georgetown+gunstocks+again.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1104" data-original-width="828" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSV6dk5Gud_SdYMtX-LYX9zrfcUNfgbM2fbmUFpYlu8d3JPwm2tzh3wSbW9VfnsV3buzDMIgXnmHJb724AwNg0pQQiwmO0flmCqAaKBNON9zfvBYGVOkBjTLARYCb_Db7rztqYdThfkYY/s640/Georgetown+gunstocks+again.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heavy framing, gunstock corner. Is that a chamfer on the beam? Great gunstock post.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br />The wainscoting boards were about 22” wide and the mop board is 12” tall. </span><br style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;" /><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">You can see the painted labels on the beams. I left them visible to reflect part of the history. I am not sure if the posts are oak or chestnut but they sure are heavy and solid!</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_vBbxzUJBbrzDHIfKajJPjqJR-xzKvy6FuHXdx1DGTTXLFUvcUNmSSzO-DmIAXe4Xb9BpH4zt-VEcuYjmrHRnSk7n781zfN-99FL2TmhOmPs8LEMSTDBwBvuWcTX_6Bj3nna3AnL1e8E/s1600/Georgetown+heavy+framing.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1104" data-original-width="828" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_vBbxzUJBbrzDHIfKajJPjqJR-xzKvy6FuHXdx1DGTTXLFUvcUNmSSzO-DmIAXe4Xb9BpH4zt-VEcuYjmrHRnSk7n781zfN-99FL2TmhOmPs8LEMSTDBwBvuWcTX_6Bj3nna3AnL1e8E/s320/Georgetown+heavy+framing.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">"A friend and I plastered the walls. It is still a work in progress but I have no immediate plans to do any but use the room as is! </span><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">I hope to incorporate other parts into my home as time goes on."</span></i></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja-MACPTOpIV7KpJ7dsoYBZ9_0o6sJIi5MZpPuoucPrWp_hXd-_lFafywOE_atHheradovMO1LOCvRT4XE9afw1UC7CWjUylJQom6IRCnp7Fpj0l4aJw7mH5ZT5Vl0bQpFrDxicru9sPI/s1600/Georgetown+cape+materials.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1006" data-original-width="1341" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja-MACPTOpIV7KpJ7dsoYBZ9_0o6sJIi5MZpPuoucPrWp_hXd-_lFafywOE_atHheradovMO1LOCvRT4XE9afw1UC7CWjUylJQom6IRCnp7Fpj0l4aJw7mH5ZT5Vl0bQpFrDxicru9sPI/s640/Georgetown+cape+materials.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGf6usCUPTTLrJ7mTHN5rWmf2yoJCXCM38i2WIjFGQG5EsYQUZpDvy1VRIznlMCWVvI4uiXV9Y9uw0PBCQETp21kAk6saCkQd16wmmLqGstLRglPXznLYhGWdWhsb2b8gZCzaHoDyH3gs/s1600/Georgetown+boards+reused+in+the+living+room.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1104" data-original-width="1472" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGf6usCUPTTLrJ7mTHN5rWmf2yoJCXCM38i2WIjFGQG5EsYQUZpDvy1VRIznlMCWVvI4uiXV9Y9uw0PBCQETp21kAk6saCkQd16wmmLqGstLRglPXznLYhGWdWhsb2b8gZCzaHoDyH3gs/s320/Georgetown+boards+reused+in+the+living+room.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wide sheathing boards with layers of paint.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibAm2xmEZmAVConnddNTh1FuGMV9zudSuA9-3Gv96az4Epz8TbgqwrwmKR38dfg37tXJGaiZJ_wC0DOg5BIhyphenhyphenjcSWaaGcKap3_Ypal8HuqsZyT7iAME15cZXjDfpKVdg45sGo7jubaJnE/s1600/Wide+Boards+fromGeorgetown+Cape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibAm2xmEZmAVConnddNTh1FuGMV9zudSuA9-3Gv96az4Epz8TbgqwrwmKR38dfg37tXJGaiZJ_wC0DOg5BIhyphenhyphenjcSWaaGcKap3_Ypal8HuqsZyT7iAME15cZXjDfpKVdg45sGo7jubaJnE/s320/Wide+Boards+fromGeorgetown+Cape.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Wide Boards from Georgetown</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
When it didn't seem as though the cape would be re-erected in its entirety, Cheryl made good use of many of the parts and will collectively use more as time goes on and other uses come along<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpji6bMpSt3yV0fORVUIbjoQEiVEQ2wxdggFBAszRNACIAeCKrTvEKck4eslqHec2JQ0xsZLWobEftjg57IKcadlRsbmlII3DAJX5u46Y27OcmNV0bkohbm7hrPMAh7b7La-v5-HI91Gk/s1600/Georgetown+material+in+barn.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1104" data-original-width="828" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpji6bMpSt3yV0fORVUIbjoQEiVEQ2wxdggFBAszRNACIAeCKrTvEKck4eslqHec2JQ0xsZLWobEftjg57IKcadlRsbmlII3DAJX5u46Y27OcmNV0bkohbm7hrPMAh7b7La-v5-HI91Gk/s640/Georgetown+material+in+barn.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Newly constructed barn.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></i></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYyik-kxY7liKX38zHfqS0gCseBeo9r9bZ2IMKrKQkZhvQUyGuY3KCWFBcnRYmzTvR-ceGyX_INI2B02ZSEqG34ATw9fTVq56WZop0lrdqJPNLEcUmk7tTmSkXySdLxcZHeewr9lBsPf8/s1600/Georgetown+room.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1006" data-original-width="755" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYyik-kxY7liKX38zHfqS0gCseBeo9r9bZ2IMKrKQkZhvQUyGuY3KCWFBcnRYmzTvR-ceGyX_INI2B02ZSEqG34ATw9fTVq56WZop0lrdqJPNLEcUmk7tTmSkXySdLxcZHeewr9lBsPf8/s640/Georgetown+room.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A new room but showing plenty of antiquity.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN5SGeMfDLoKpc0hYCUWQO6TGrjizjm0nD6fu_yUVlxtG8Pfjhvcs1YK-iNvF_IvtaBYXy_KuOYavGq1vILofm73Q3pAEqLM9HrDnxwVSK7GlGnhZ1fUS9wZL-GheyhAcAAgGBu9QntKo/s640/Georgetown+potting+shed.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Potting shed using some old material from the Georgetown cape.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">This is where I will end for now but if I can possible get one of the earlier names on the house from its old location I will endeavor to discover its history going backward rather than going forward as we have be doing.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">I hope you enjoyed the strange tale of the old Cape from Tenney St. in Georgetown, MA. The final photo is of the entire property. It's all here, not in its original form but utilized and loved. That's what is important. It is a miracle that any of it survived after thirty years "on the road"</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpqQ6MsfWR1yZHPKojZEBOl4wKPEyVe3XCoTGAzC_-m4l-EifEkqMR3TgSyrO4-4RC_K_dwPyzen7RWIW9BW6NQThK1GYCuG3MQ0p_otCOjtR9rpLSz6i7A9O6eY7EQ71XqPxxxcf7LY/s1600/Georgetown+addition.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1104" data-original-width="1472" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpqQ6MsfWR1yZHPKojZEBOl4wKPEyVe3XCoTGAzC_-m4l-EifEkqMR3TgSyrO4-4RC_K_dwPyzen7RWIW9BW6NQThK1GYCuG3MQ0p_otCOjtR9rpLSz6i7A9O6eY7EQ71XqPxxxcf7LY/s640/Georgetown+addition.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter in Maine!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></i></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></i></span>
</div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-77889139422634611492017-12-03T13:08:00.001-08:002017-12-05T05:35:32.731-08:00OLD HOUSES THREATENED BY FADS <span style="color: #990000;">HAVE YOU NOTICED THESE TRENDS?</span><br />
<div>
<span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
Times are changing! Antique houses and historic building are in jeopardy. Here are examples of what is impairing them, some much more serious than others. If only cosmetics are involved...OK. When original fabric is involved it is not so OK.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For nearly fifty years I have gone on antique house tours from Maine to Florida and elsewhere in between. They followed the same scenario. Visitors were greeted at the front door and admired the hall and staircase before being directed into the front rooms. The visitors admired traditional parlors usually with a fireplace, a Chippendale sofa, wing chairs and Martha Washington lolling chairs. Oriental rugs covered the floor; swags and jabots adorned the small paned windows.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In the dining room the table was usually set fit for a queen with the fine china, sterling silver tableware and maybe some Waterford crystal glasses. Sometime you were allowed upstairs and sometimes not but the entire first floor was on display. Often less formal country kitchens welcomed you to the rear of the house. Occasionally there was an antique cast iron Glenwood or Crawford range or cook stove that was the pride of the homeowner especially if it could be used. Butcher block was often the counter of choice in an old house kitchen.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After many years of being inspired by lovely and interesting houses, not all of them as formal as I just described I would return home; sometimes inspired and other times with feelings of hopelessness, thinking everything I owned in my house had to go.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Once when I lived in Newburyport, MA my own house was on a tour. It was a lot of work but heart warming too as people admired things and for a number of years afterwards when I would be introduced to someone they would remark about things they had seen in my house and remembered. It was mostly a positive experience.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After so many years of touring I became less eager to go. Maybe it was really my worn out knees and I didn't want to admit that all of the stairs and in and out of the car were killing me.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Recently, for the first time in years I agreed to go on a tour of mostly antique houses. Some of the houses I was familiar with and others I would be seeing for the first time.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As a friend and I approached the first house we were directed around to the back of the house but with lovely landscaping it was a treat. When we entered the house we had to take off our shoes which was not a treat but a real pain. I had not worn shoes that I could kick off easily but I complied. We then entered the kitchen. Treacherously shiny, slippery floors greeted us. But here is the thing. We were in the kitchen! The back wall of the house had been opened up and an addition built in the rear. We were in a huge space with the best of everything relative to cabinetry, appliances and granite counter tops. This was the centerpiece of the house. The dining room and parlor were anti climactic after seeing the "swell" kitchen. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Both my friend and I were bored with the house. It had lost its patina. If I hadn't known better I would have thought I was in a reproduction house. It was pristine! And was billed as a 17th century house which it was not. The given date would have made it one of the five oldest houses in America. Not!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We continued on to the second house. Once again we were shuffled around to the back door. What was going on? More of the same. Walls had been removed to create the ultimate kitchen. Everything was expensive and sparkling. What the parlor and dining room looked like I hardly noticed.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
On to the next house and the same scenario again. In the back door, walls removed to create a large space, appliances nearly commercial grade. Was this the quaint old house I had always admired?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We didn't finish the tour. It was disturbing to hardly recognize these houses with their shiny surfaces, not an imperfection to be found. How can that be in an almost three hundred year old house?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Open spaces, missing walls, and scraped, sanded and polished spaces are in. Guests enter by the kitchen door because the enlarged kitchens have taken center stage. Antique houses are being threatened by this latest craze. As I predicted elsewhere, the day will come when the hostess or the housewife will get tired of everyone hanging around her while she prepares a meal and surely closed kitchens will have their day once again but how much damage is being done? Sanded and urethaned floors and expensive stoves with enough burners to run a restaurant are the style of the day! If that's what you want, folks, build a repro.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The experience was disturbing and I came home, not feeling inspired, but feeling troubled. The houses is saw could have passed for repros and I wished that the owners had built themselves new houses and left their antique houses alone.<br />
<br />
I must not leave out the fad for exposing beams in the ceiling never supposed to be seen by human eyes once the house is built. Old time housewrights must be rolling in their graves to see their rough adzed beams being displayed in an otherwise nice room. Most houses were not rustic cabins but refined houses. I covered that subject in a blog post recently and there was an unprecedented number of readers and responders. Here is the link to that blog post in case you didn't see it.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
https://prudencefish.blogspot.com/2017/08/beams-beams-and-more-beams.html<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6XkiZm0EhQwP2SlH1OmaN-3lhyphenhyphenRJYvaldZJBp1t2BklJQ_GDmxRH3IBhj8oHWZ79TnzNlUADAAkYO-FSH0AQFg-THShN4zH1GPwIQ9haNlMwTisKFooSnY_4AbW5z3Wo37uuMNWozqZs/s1600/8c41861b0ddb9ccb_6146-w550-h440-b0-p0--farmhouse-dining-room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="550" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6XkiZm0EhQwP2SlH1OmaN-3lhyphenhyphenRJYvaldZJBp1t2BklJQ_GDmxRH3IBhj8oHWZ79TnzNlUADAAkYO-FSH0AQFg-THShN4zH1GPwIQ9haNlMwTisKFooSnY_4AbW5z3Wo37uuMNWozqZs/s640/8c41861b0ddb9ccb_6146-w550-h440-b0-p0--farmhouse-dining-room.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A fairly formal dining room but where is the plastered ceiling? These crude beams were not meant for human eyes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Another threat to old houses presents a much more serious dilemma. It is lead paint.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For many years removing lead paint posed more of a threat than leaving it alone. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anyone born in the late 1970s or before has probably been exposed to lead paint. New England houses are very apt to be a lot older then the 70s. I have not been very sympathetic to those calling for the removal of lead paint in our houses. It is disruptive, expensive and is a real threat to antique houses. I have sincerely doubted that children were chewing on any part of the house. It has always seemed to me that painted furniture or other old or antique objects that people have lying around or accessorizing their homes were much more apt to be the culprit. A toddler might bite on the arm of a chair or any antique ornament on a low table such as families of old houses collect.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I just heard that a family I know with a precious one year old baby have discovered that the baby has elevated lead levels. These are very conscientious parents and they also love their 200 year old house. They are going to be moving out of their house for six weeks while their lovely old center chimney house has all traces of lead paint removed. This is drastic and tragic for the interruption in their lives and the assault on their house and the expenditure. But I understand the pressure they feel to remove harmful elements from their baby's environment especially if the state gets involved.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This couple think that the threat is coming from the painted floors. When I mentioned the situation to a friend whose middle aged children are the same age as mine her immediate response was that we kept our kids in playpens and they didn't crawl around on the floors. And most rooms had some sort of rug. I really hadn't thought about play pens and if they are no longer in use why not? Checking online I see that they are available. Since these days I am not usually in houses with babies I'm curious if there has been a decline in the use of playpens as my friend suggests leaving more babies to crawl around on the floor investigating their surroundings.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Children must be protected but deleading an entire house is a drastic measure. Perhaps I don't know how many children have high levels. Surely most of us and most of our kids if born before lead paint was outlawed didn't even consider that our children were in jeopardy and I'm not convinced that they were. Would it not be more likely that a child would mostly be apt to put an object in their mouth that they could pick up and hold in their hands? Any object that is painted could be a culprit. And what about novelty items that have come from other countries and sold here that aren't antique?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Once a child has been diagnosed something drastic has to be done and it is somewhat out of the homeowner's hands. Going the route of encapsulating the painted surfaces seems a better way to go but perhaps there is no choice once the state is involved.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There is another threat to an old house and it doesn't have to be that old!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Everywhere I go I can usually see an insulator's truck parked at yet another house that is getting insulation blown into the walls. Without a vapor barrier which old houses do not have the home owner could be headed for trouble down the road. Without a vapor barrier the insulation gets wet, holds water and becomes a soggy mess and it's just a matter of time until it starts to impair the integrity of the framework of the house as the wood is constantly exposed to the wet insulation.<br />
<br />
A house with no vapor barrier and no insulation is able to breath. We have huge numbers of old houses in New England that might not still be here if they had blown-in insulation suffocating them. One inspector claimed that 80% of the houses he inspected with blown in insulation had damage. </div>
<div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdnKrwctxcvaQZmSKYWDUiKNDByhyr0iBumpqLJDsBhogMcPN6XBLuG2Hhpp-4m1u2kWTVogZWsHP8GZlm9DcMCOzjhgOzxLu0fgCQb1tk9WmS0T1iqfA56uMppLuKKTNFcgiB5O-yBek/s1600/Blown+in+insulation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="235" data-original-width="390" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdnKrwctxcvaQZmSKYWDUiKNDByhyr0iBumpqLJDsBhogMcPN6XBLuG2Hhpp-4m1u2kWTVogZWsHP8GZlm9DcMCOzjhgOzxLu0fgCQb1tk9WmS0T1iqfA56uMppLuKKTNFcgiB5O-yBek/s320/Blown+in+insulation.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This guy is insulating an attic floor. That is good. Walls are bad.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
Another current trend is only temporarily detrimental because it is cosmetic. It is when changes can't be reversed that there real trouble. Here I'm talking about wallpaper and that obviously is cosmetic and not really damaging to the house.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
By the 19th century there were numerous paper stainers and wallpaper was readily available. Here in New England in the 19th century wallpaper decorated most rooms. I have been told that in warmer climates there is an insect problem with wallpaper and its paste thus not seen in the South as frequently. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Wallpaper, for the most part, is out of favor. It has been replaced by white paint throughout the house. Not only is this not accurate treatment in an old house but it is boring. "Less is More" promoted by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in the 20th century has nothing to do with period decorating in an old house. The white on white treatment has found its way into the decorating fads of the our country perhaps in part inspired by HGTV. I will be so glad when this fad becomes history which it will.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy1qAjo7wJUeW0fFs_9nQwaIVbfjJuc-IgFHAuiuKHlrdyGbqK3HBu4H3xbWs8Grbc10lVn1JO35g8zdd3vpbWRyis5P43RSVi2lEStv5UZg7ezPCSRDHwxBjCFexUpgplrmd6e3cn49Q/s1600/Antique+room+with+wallpaper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1000" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy1qAjo7wJUeW0fFs_9nQwaIVbfjJuc-IgFHAuiuKHlrdyGbqK3HBu4H3xbWs8Grbc10lVn1JO35g8zdd3vpbWRyis5P43RSVi2lEStv5UZg7ezPCSRDHwxBjCFexUpgplrmd6e3cn49Q/s640/Antique+room+with+wallpaper.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is a wallpapered room in Hamilton House in South Berwick, Maine. What could be more charming. No white walls here. I love this room!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia3H79Ukvt_Avpl7rDVH35Sp-TsZmStFz44aFVNVdkt93G9q3eMsDyNeJ0RVJu-1QlUMmbmZ3aD30JJiDIcQn4QUrL57CPZ5Fa9qvsWaZoDIE-XrwwCz6bm2F7h6aeO9GUvlCpSwdwjac/s1600/White+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="643" data-original-width="550" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia3H79Ukvt_Avpl7rDVH35Sp-TsZmStFz44aFVNVdkt93G9q3eMsDyNeJ0RVJu-1QlUMmbmZ3aD30JJiDIcQn4QUrL57CPZ5Fa9qvsWaZoDIE-XrwwCz6bm2F7h6aeO9GUvlCpSwdwjac/s320/White+room.jpg" width="273" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White paint prevails everywhere.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There is one other color in vogue that you may not have heard of but it is making a fashion statement these days in houses of all ages and styles. The word is"griege" It is defined like this.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">The name might sound exotic, but greige is actually an amalgamation of two words; </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">gray</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> and beige. Most shades of greige are stronger on the </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">gray</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> than beige. But if you look closer, you will notice brownish undertones merging with the neutral </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">gray</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> color.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></i>So now you know what greige is, but will you know it when you see it?<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span>
But here is what is <i>really</i> getting my dander up these days! Three times in the last week or two while looking at listings of antique houses for sale I have been floored by broker comments.<br />
<br />
These listings describe beautifully the features and details of what appear to be great "turn-key" houses until you get to the last sentence in the description. "This house needs total renovation" That is the conclusion of the broker for the house at 325 Main St. in historic Concord, MA and the same sentiment expressed for a beautiful brick house built at 1 Metcalf St. in Worcester, MA in 1939.<br />
Here they are.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3ntUTkq89X9ZWswNhZ0v_aEJwTADqFVAA6df4hXVf3kTTN9Sm4IcFeGKCEH0dbKlY8Q3kCMvPU6JkINbRsdvyYJFn4-dqwl1Do6thn8hV1JbQ2i_JYQLvHOuiestdhHM4_euJzh5ap8/s1600/Main+St%252C+concord%252C+ma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="550" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3ntUTkq89X9ZWswNhZ0v_aEJwTADqFVAA6df4hXVf3kTTN9Sm4IcFeGKCEH0dbKlY8Q3kCMvPU6JkINbRsdvyYJFn4-dqwl1Do6thn8hV1JbQ2i_JYQLvHOuiestdhHM4_euJzh5ap8/s400/Main+St%252C+concord%252C+ma.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Concord, MA 1767</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "gotham" , "gotham" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;"><b>"Bring your creative eye...this property needs a complete renovation." </b>says the listing. What in the world are they talking about. A kitchen island with granite?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "gotham" , "gotham" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyo_4yLQMEPoK3ixm7owEU9ibvjdw53nj0eombe3z7vJXtimbYrwxpiNt9ZFhuXxtYYYDgoj5vhHkFVGyzg8cSU7-ZW4kPzss8ucUpSxhsPVoc4EAN6d0_G3dNpq7ncgQlC3xptfHTXDw/s1600/Metcalf+St.+Worcester%252C+ma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="763" data-original-width="1020" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyo_4yLQMEPoK3ixm7owEU9ibvjdw53nj0eombe3z7vJXtimbYrwxpiNt9ZFhuXxtYYYDgoj5vhHkFVGyzg8cSU7-ZW4kPzss8ucUpSxhsPVoc4EAN6d0_G3dNpq7ncgQlC3xptfHTXDw/s640/Metcalf+St.+Worcester%252C+ma.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Worcester, MA 1939</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "gotham" , "gotham" , "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "roboto" , sans-serif;"><b> "A Total Rehab"</b></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "roboto" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> claims the listing agent. Does total rehab mean sanding a couple of oak floors and taking down some faded wallpaper?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "roboto" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR673k9cuwAaYdMbzdypLafRTYWVa8hzu8_JIAOnEkdYjnhhN-oYQR3MkN-HE2ySg3Vrt7VvliWiX3Bxg_ZSzXBZ2TOhNDUZJPVEazEcob1Kl7MPv-avI9Ta-PVYJgcpXuwWZbUVuY_sY/s1600/Washignton+St.%252C+Riverdale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR673k9cuwAaYdMbzdypLafRTYWVa8hzu8_JIAOnEkdYjnhhN-oYQR3MkN-HE2ySg3Vrt7VvliWiX3Bxg_ZSzXBZ2TOhNDUZJPVEazEcob1Kl7MPv-avI9Ta-PVYJgcpXuwWZbUVuY_sY/s320/Washignton+St.%252C+Riverdale.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gloucester, MA, Mid 18th century</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><b><br />"Raze the existing dwelling and rebuild upon 13,000 square feet" <span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></b><span style="font-size: x-small;">proclaims this Gloucester listing. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This house is tired but does it have to be bulldozed? It is an historic house. To read more about Cape Ann Cottages, follow this link.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">https://prudencefish.blogspot.com/2014/03/the-18th-century-cottages-of-cape-ann.html</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">This has to be just the tip of the iceberg. What a senseless attack on our inventory of traditional and antique houses. When the "throw away society" that we live in comes down to throwing away significant houses something needs to be done.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">For a long time I ran classes for real estate "professionals" trying to educate them to recognize period styles and how to go about selling them. I reached a lot of people but it wasn't enough and what they learned didn't always stick. And with the high attrition rate of real estate brokers many of the ones I did reach have moved on to other careers or retirement. If you sell cars or pots and pans you have to know your product. Not so in the real estate industry. Just about everything else involving the sale of the house takes priority over the age and the history. Misrepresentation is rampant when it comes to describing the house and particularly dating the house.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">The Concord house comes with this glowing description before the announcement, the grand finale, that it needs complete renovation. Read this about the house:</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "gotham" , "gotham" , "verdana" , sans-serif;">Offered for the 1st time since 1949 & paired w a generous 3/4A lot coupled w a Concord Ctr location, this Samuel Jones House c. 1767 provides exciting opportunities to bring a pure, unspoiled antique gem back to life. Tracing its roots to the dawn of Independence, this property is steeped in history (see attachment). Residents include famed poet & journalist William Ellery Channing, friend & 1st biographer to Henry David Thoreau as well as Franklin Sanborn, educator & ardent</span><span class="" id="util_TextFold_toggleArea" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-family: "gotham" , "gotham" , "verdana" , sans-serif;"> abolitionist who offered safe passage to fugitive slaves along the Underground RR.<b> Current owners have painstakingly restored the house to reflect its original roots.</b> Hndmade nails & hardware, original millwork, exposed beams, charming window seats, built-in cabinet & striking raised paneling over fp. Bring your creative eye..<b>.this property needs a complete renovation.</b> Possible 2nd dwelling exists w approvals.</span></i><span class="linkToggle expanded" id="util_TextFold" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-family: "gotham" , "gotham" , "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">I am not even going to start in on the subject of replacement windows and the ensuing damage to the integrity of the antique house. This could be called a scam. They have no business being installed in an antique house. Windows could be the entire subject of a post maybe left for another day.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">So don't get taken in by these fads and trends. They will pass and you don't want to be left with an impaired house because some salesman talked you into insulation or new windows. As I have already said, if you succumb to a fad that is reversible no real damage is done. It is when original fabric is removed that changes become more serious.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Meanwhile, what can we do to stop this craziness and what do people really want in an old house. Or in their heart of hearts maybe they don't even want an old house with its inevitable idiosyncrasies.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Enjoy the quirkiness of your old house, protect it and do thorough homework before you make changes. And when you are no longer comfortable living in an antique with creaking floorboards and steep staircases, and not really devoted to that lifestyle, give yourself permission to move on to something that is more to your liking. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><b>Post Script</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Shocker of the day! They seem to be turning up everywhere. Once again, this is from Concord, MA, one of America's most historic towns, not only from its role in the Revolution ("the rude bridge that arched the flood") but also for its literary contribution to America. </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Henry David Thoreau, </b></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Ralph Waldo Emerson, Louisa May Alcott, and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow </b>who didn't live in Concord but memorialized the 19th of April, 1775 in "Paul Revere's Ride". These greats are associated with Concord and are the names that quickly come to mind when you think of this town.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH0NUZ7pDoxKuI_8PB3D7xZ-_zuQnfbkhax-6zp_FfvVRvWZqEMMJt-vi8T89BqTCWx20UmhyphenhyphenxCANjq_F82nEe87FAD3NhOCSlz6IHw0Gi-yCuCgAQKsgHgCUNkAGfdFPTDHxPQ_nhFpU/s1600/House+in+Concord.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="664" data-original-width="1000" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH0NUZ7pDoxKuI_8PB3D7xZ-_zuQnfbkhax-6zp_FfvVRvWZqEMMJt-vi8T89BqTCWx20UmhyphenhyphenxCANjq_F82nEe87FAD3NhOCSlz6IHw0Gi-yCuCgAQKsgHgCUNkAGfdFPTDHxPQ_nhFpU/s400/House+in+Concord.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This fine house is priced at $1,565,000</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "muli" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br />The real estate ad describes it like this:</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "muli" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "muli" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">"Majestically sited on 2 buildable lots, this iconic Concord property is yours to </span><b>renovate or start from scratch with your visionary design." </b><span style="font-size: x-small;">The price tag is $1,565,000. </span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: black; cursor: pointer; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; white-space: nowrap;"><br /></span></div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-27865624104866833842017-12-01T08:57:00.000-08:002017-12-04T15:59:40.891-08:00LITTLE ANTIQUE CAPE, LOST AND FOUND Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #660000;">THE LITTLE HOUSE THAT COULD</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmK0QDUnFDu-wOAC2ixKetX2dvqcAPZTUSN91OZud-42C8DMfbEh9c-8TOq2MemOu1lXxeRfXksdh0EvGpgjnx0LMIvn74Ar2PDJ4gIN-x0dZCksyInTn2xESmGFgRDqDezZ3ex5sHDlk/s1600/Tenney+St+story+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="187" data-original-width="359" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmK0QDUnFDu-wOAC2ixKetX2dvqcAPZTUSN91OZud-42C8DMfbEh9c-8TOq2MemOu1lXxeRfXksdh0EvGpgjnx0LMIvn74Ar2PDJ4gIN-x0dZCksyInTn2xESmGFgRDqDezZ3ex5sHDlk/s320/Tenney+St+story+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
"<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">This house has more miles on it than my 26 year old Saab Convertible!"</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">These were the words spoken by someone who had just heard the story of this old house for the first time. You will also be dumbfounded by the strange odyssey endured by this tired house, so quaint and charming; that had stood for so many decades by the side of a country road, with its big chimney in the middle until so-called progress intervened. The incredible journey of the house goes like this.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBLbFr9RbWc1h7YqPBSLv48bdYRG-oBIkTNO5TOo6ZKWXyEVcZfFxYjKbAjk87fYE7oJBlg27L8FuVxQFzR1oJBMq9L15yoDny7INzRtsLd8qYjBf8MFU1m-OdfCgwigFKRXagQAj3_Y/s1600/Tenney+St+house+before+demolition.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="297" data-original-width="464" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBLbFr9RbWc1h7YqPBSLv48bdYRG-oBIkTNO5TOo6ZKWXyEVcZfFxYjKbAjk87fYE7oJBlg27L8FuVxQFzR1oJBMq9L15yoDny7INzRtsLd8qYjBf8MFU1m-OdfCgwigFKRXagQAj3_Y/s400/Tenney+St+house+before+demolition.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiny antique cape that formerly stood on a large lot of <br />
land at 107 Tenney Street in Georgetown, way out in the country.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br />In the 1970's and into the 1980s an old man lived with his dog in the little house according to a friend who lived nearby. She used to stop to talk to the old man but was never inside his house.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">By 1985, the owner, assumed not to be the old man, no longer wanted it and the house had to go. Enter Mark Phillips.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Mark Phillips was a fire fighter in West Peabody but with plenty of time off and with a passion for old building materials he roamed the countryside looking for run down, empty houses where he could get salvage rights to the old material.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Mark discovered the old house on Tenney St. in Georgetown, MA and obtained the rights to the house only, not the land. I'm not sure how long Mark Phillips tried to sell the entire house himself but eventually he listed the house with me, a Realtor, in nearby Ipswich who specialized in selling historical or antique houses. This all happened in 1985 so the details are a little fuzzy after more than thirty years.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGLjwSf6Z6N9qQIz4sqKZQheBt2eZG0G9_SOicFVqg5q9uGrovU4kmu_jzjRUYPgXoPnYbnm0qXAJJUwGnO5ceRsLovaprwmRNd1g5Ebyw_HLVnoEIYVyq3btw6R40P_DgVJv2WmHgzBY/s1600/Tenney+St+story.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="849" data-original-width="647" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGLjwSf6Z6N9qQIz4sqKZQheBt2eZG0G9_SOicFVqg5q9uGrovU4kmu_jzjRUYPgXoPnYbnm0qXAJJUwGnO5ceRsLovaprwmRNd1g5Ebyw_HLVnoEIYVyq3btw6R40P_DgVJv2WmHgzBY/s320/Tenney+St+story.jpg" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This ad for the old house must have appeared<br />
somewhere but I don't know where. Perhaps<br />
it was in the Maine Antique Digest.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">The house was shabby but had some integrity as an antique with a large center chimney and three fireplaces, one of which was a fairly large cooking fireplace with a bake oven. It appeared to have all of its original pieces and parts but in a sad condition. From one of the photos it appears to have had a small building behind it that looks like a "ten footer". It had already been torn down by the time I got there. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Ten by ten (or similar) shoe shops dotted this neighborhood in the Georgetown and surrounding area where people in outlying neighborhoods supplemented their incomes by working on shoes for the Lynn shoe industry especially in the winter. In fact, my friend who lived around the corner had a ten footer in her yard which was taken and saved by the local historical society. By the time I saw the house there were no outbuildings remaining. They had already been demolished.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">(If you love old building take a look at these ten footers that dotted the landscape in Essex County, Massachusetts.) </span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
http://primaryresearch.org/ten-footer-shoe-shops-of-essex-county/<br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">So the salvage man advertised the house with no results before he listed it with me. It was just prior to the summer of 1985.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">I was known for being the broker more interested in saving old houses than looking for the big commissions so I took the listing for this house. I don't remember the price but it was well under $10,000. I certainly didn't list it in anticipation of a big pay day.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #f6f7f9;">When buyer brokerage first came into New England a broker in my office said, "Pru doesn't work for the buyer or the seller. She works for the house." I guess there was a kernel of truth in that because I sold the oldest, the shabbiest and most interesting houses finding satisfaction researching their history, giving them an identity and in locating a buyer who would breath life back into these old wrecks. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Along came Peter Kenyon from Gloucester. He had a house lot in a beautiful spot in the Annisquam section of Gloucester on which he dreamed of re-erecting the old cape. He would spend the summer dismantling the house with the help of his family especially his school aged sons.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">The sale took place and the Kenyons proceeded with the task of taking down the house. with a deadline of August 30th to have the house removed. It was a family project.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEnIqlXurD7spKDrxp-Or9ArBnAwTLgEbBBV8ItE4GyI9mKzcLlFTLv7UEtk0HCihWPiD6RG8oKZEm8BzSWIWY-xmO3tK_uV_N77eZRE1kHkH_PWVI1Lm3qbJDaKZ07JQCpYNKpChoX-I/s1600/Tenny+St.Bill+of+sale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEnIqlXurD7spKDrxp-Or9ArBnAwTLgEbBBV8ItE4GyI9mKzcLlFTLv7UEtk0HCihWPiD6RG8oKZEm8BzSWIWY-xmO3tK_uV_N77eZRE1kHkH_PWVI1Lm3qbJDaKZ07JQCpYNKpChoX-I/s400/Tenny+St.Bill+of+sale.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Bill of Sale for the house in lieu of a Deed because there was no<br />
land involved in the transaction. It became personal property.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
Because they were buying just the house with no land it required a Bill of Sale for personal property rather than a deed. It was legally the Kenyon's house now and had to be removed by them.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
They worked diligently on the project carefully identifying and numbering each and every piece of the house which they removed. I have no memory of where they stored the pieces and parts of the house but the following photos will give a idea of what went on and how they identified the pieces of the house with their floor plan to assist when it was re-erected.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUD9utZdFVFw23oVjXyquAKJ1-TaADGME8H2ue0caFmVClMSTekFH-c82oJNDMW8bqeT7QQouMt4N5P_RIaBzFi4osL7PbijmjMBfeQBmg38qQDR941RETFje4KYiJXd-TY8ObQRCJELI/s1600/Tenney+St.+new+owner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="305" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUD9utZdFVFw23oVjXyquAKJ1-TaADGME8H2ue0caFmVClMSTekFH-c82oJNDMW8bqeT7QQouMt4N5P_RIaBzFi4osL7PbijmjMBfeQBmg38qQDR941RETFje4KYiJXd-TY8ObQRCJELI/s400/Tenney+St.+new+owner.jpg" width="252" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peter Kenyon working on the house.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
From time to time I would swing by in my travels to see how the work was progressing. On some of these visits I dug up old peonies and Solomon's Seal that were growing in the yard, evidence of better days when someone cared about the house. I still have those perennials.</div>
<div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: justify;">The job was completed and I didn't hear anything for perhaps a couple of years. That is when I </span>learned<span style="text-align: justify;"> that the Gloucester building inspector refused to give the Kenyons a building permit for building a house with old material. They were shot down! They had a lovely lot and a quaint house but the dream of the antique house on this piece of land was never to be.</span><br />
<br />
The Kenyons did what was about the only thing they could do. They built a new post and beam cape on the lot. It had a central chimney and 9 over 6 windows. It was also much larger than the antique cape but not what they had planned.<br />
<br />
They gave me a tour of the new house and there in the new basement, high, dry and safe were the pieces and parts of the old cape. That was the last time I ever saw the house.<br />
<br />
They later told me that they planned to take it to Maine where they could rebuild it without facing the problems they faced in Gloucester.</div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq3GVPvn5vgpUIkIuYdTO9x4WXp1NwI96a1BXlsfxWx1Ctu53xgC9aesTYHu-5Q668iKYBNdJyYzYszbHCGVOfFKtxE71u4zY2uNG6wJACq94K7FrY-RkgRenm2afhS1vQJ5l7xaV3mSg/s1600/Tenney+St+floor+plan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="677" data-original-width="909" height="475" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq3GVPvn5vgpUIkIuYdTO9x4WXp1NwI96a1BXlsfxWx1Ctu53xgC9aesTYHu-5Q668iKYBNdJyYzYszbHCGVOfFKtxE71u4zY2uNG6wJACq94K7FrY-RkgRenm2afhS1vQJ5l7xaV3mSg/s640/Tenney+St+floor+plan.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plan of the antique cape formerly at 107 Tenney St., Georgetown, MA. You can see the labels on every piece to correspond<br />
with the labeling on the actual piece so that the house could easily be put back up with every piece accounted for.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgouGFmWYC83_O2AxELphzqR_y1Eone9PgTtpSGsbLmlo2b7Q0n8sO2dmXw-CW6TehSB4_ueqIOM_BqiA4mjMJuesZwkcYeNjO1QqUxZVAazxB_l-eKwOi87TqpUDDF2GBL5EA4JtEFoH8/s1600/Tenney+St++8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="870" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgouGFmWYC83_O2AxELphzqR_y1Eone9PgTtpSGsbLmlo2b7Q0n8sO2dmXw-CW6TehSB4_ueqIOM_BqiA4mjMJuesZwkcYeNjO1QqUxZVAazxB_l-eKwOi87TqpUDDF2GBL5EA4JtEFoH8/s640/Tenney+St++8.jpg" width="580" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near the entrance door you can see the debris from<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">outbuildings that were demolished and not saved.</span><br />
It looks as though a ten footer shoe or cordwainer's <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">shop was lost in the demolition. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">(I just noticed the </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">old </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">knife box on the right, or is it a box for carpenter's tools?)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF4xt3ikSFTO5COtOT1cyx57giBJ0GgDFAAUQPMUCE0hNpR0modRZIEsa989ReH-QcAOKE8O2VHaYqWdZyIA02iZJSfReMZKPa2NkL1QNGt7xMyitnzMV7OSWAnLHvQW7prx_uOuPEw_0/s1600/tenney+St+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="290" data-original-width="519" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF4xt3ikSFTO5COtOT1cyx57giBJ0GgDFAAUQPMUCE0hNpR0modRZIEsa989ReH-QcAOKE8O2VHaYqWdZyIA02iZJSfReMZKPa2NkL1QNGt7xMyitnzMV7OSWAnLHvQW7prx_uOuPEw_0/s640/tenney+St+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is a view of one of the front rooms after it was stripped or as we usually say, "gutted".</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij9GB4pekdu1zAqkehm0VirEUEIUpvvzWKvZSeK3r0FiARlEcFa7jX_Dqj4uPsLFkdm6PPHhd0Cm7bvJKGGmbv29iK2KBrO0TO_9PEvcqnoGeZJg2I5gKQSOJmaAkMY73gbixxt6Pu1F0/s1600/Tenney+st.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="316" data-original-width="454" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij9GB4pekdu1zAqkehm0VirEUEIUpvvzWKvZSeK3r0FiARlEcFa7jX_Dqj4uPsLFkdm6PPHhd0Cm7bvJKGGmbv29iK2KBrO0TO_9PEvcqnoGeZJg2I5gKQSOJmaAkMY73gbixxt6Pu1F0/s640/Tenney+st.2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This mess is, I believe, the kitchen cooking fireplace with evidence of a bake over on the right.<br />
<span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;">A year or so ago I joined a private </span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;">Facebook</span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;"> group called Colonial Home Owners. Many people post stories about working on their own antique houses, seeking advice or calling attention to great houses for sale. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Recently a member of Colonial Home Owners from Maine submitted information about part of her old house reconstructed from an old cape from Georgetown, MA. </span><span style="font-size: small;">I quickly contacted her saying that I thought it probably was the house I had sold thirty two years ago. She was doubtful that it was the same house but would search for the photos and documents she had saved.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">After she located her old saved photos and documents there was no question. It was the little cape taken down in Georgetown so many years ago.</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD0gJLVA_2ly3zbji7EifBNolI30WWtegiPI77MqHfxMbrLQFw0gW2Z7WfOnqSkzKE5HIno60U2X7jYWHgy1rfdCWvfZqzB1DljhQu3yQR4-MchtmkYzKSI4RkGONkMvUN8t0wEFG-s_c/s1600/Tenney+St.+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="277" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD0gJLVA_2ly3zbji7EifBNolI30WWtegiPI77MqHfxMbrLQFw0gW2Z7WfOnqSkzKE5HIno60U2X7jYWHgy1rfdCWvfZqzB1DljhQu3yQR4-MchtmkYzKSI4RkGONkMvUN8t0wEFG-s_c/s640/Tenney+St.+10.jpg" width="448" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sheathed partition interior wall separating rooms.<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5cG-TqAVRNFMhXAOgyoj2PmSvna5m3v7jOni4aA7GOonxA2kRtheqvnbfR6uc0jnsHEaitZWiCHxOxC7Pkdc0NpwyS335BAw9IKVF3100qjNZ4GcMTz6QFMDgWtYAgvv8E2dUgevGL98/s1600/Tenney+St.+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="324" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5cG-TqAVRNFMhXAOgyoj2PmSvna5m3v7jOni4aA7GOonxA2kRtheqvnbfR6uc0jnsHEaitZWiCHxOxC7Pkdc0NpwyS335BAw9IKVF3100qjNZ4GcMTz6QFMDgWtYAgvv8E2dUgevGL98/s400/Tenney+St.+11.jpg" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This view, probably the old parlor shows that it had<br />
wainscoting in addition to a wide mop board.<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
Continuing this strange odyssey of the traveling house, it turns out that the Kenyons had packed the pieces of the house in an empty school bus and drove the house to Northport, Maine. Here Peter Kenyon began de-nailing and cataloging the house until suddenly interrupted when Ann Kenyon developed health problems. The project was abandoned.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
From wherever it was at that point it was now moved to a barn in Falmouth, Maine where it remained until seen by our Colonial Home Owners member, Cheryl Wilson Callahan. Why did it need to be rescued right at that time? Believe it or not it was in danger of being taken to Ohio.<br />
<br />
Another bizarre twist to the story of the house is how Cheryl, the present owner discovered it? Are you ready for this? It was listed on Craig's List, of all places, under "Salvage!" and purchased from a middle man named Tom Farmer.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Thanks to the present owners the poor old thing was spared the insult of being uprooted to the mid West and has remained on New England soil where it belongs!<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Now you know why another Colonial Home Owners member was moved to say, </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">"<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129;">This little house has more miles on it than my 26 year old Saab Convertible!"</span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129;">To which I responded, </span></span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">"No kidding!" Who else can say their house was salvage on Craig's List?</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Like the "The Little Engine That Could" if these walls could talk they would be saying, "I think I can. I think I can."</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The story of the house now moves on to the final chapter in the hands of its new owners.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I hope, with the help of the present owner, I will be able to post again perhaps with photos and a story or two from the owners that rescued it. </span></span><span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Here is what Cheryl, the owner, said about the house,</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">"Unfortunately some parts were gone so it was not practical to put it back in its entirety... but it is still loved today!"</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">To be continued as a new post or a post script!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Thanks for reading,</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Pru</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
</h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><div style="font-size: medium; text-align: start;">
<span style="background-color: #f6f7f9; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-22501438992513386442017-09-22T02:46:00.001-07:002017-09-24T10:29:50.222-07:00HANNAH JUMPER'S HOUSE BY THE SEA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h3>
</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;"><b>DOES THIS STORY MAKE YOU SAD?</b></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIFochuRoESmF3EdKSqLxvw9-d7uOfoqhVvQCF1pSfS3EzgiUBUHX_Y3OoIvXmM0frXg7x3pAcFSPnkDCW_uDk2AoryopuqoYFfkKTez-g-YZMaiBGYfU4XQAeIWQe_MGxt28JTQHUPS0/s1600/David+Hatfield+blue+house+exii.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIFochuRoESmF3EdKSqLxvw9-d7uOfoqhVvQCF1pSfS3EzgiUBUHX_Y3OoIvXmM0frXg7x3pAcFSPnkDCW_uDk2AoryopuqoYFfkKTez-g-YZMaiBGYfU4XQAeIWQe_MGxt28JTQHUPS0/s320/David+Hatfield+blue+house+exii.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rockport's Hannah Jumper house dooryard with its<br />
famous blue gate.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If a tourist or resident of the quaint New England Town of
Rockport at the very tip of historic Cape Ann happens to peek between the row
of three nice old houses located between the old Blacksmith Shop and Atlantic Ave. on
Mt Pleasant St. they will be looking at an old red fish shack called Motif #1.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Motif 1, when I was young was called “Motive Number One” a
typical idiosyncrasy as often found in an old New England town. Motif 1 is familiar to people around the
world. It has been called the most
frequently painted and photographed building in the world and it is a rare
person who hasn’t seen its picture on a calendar or in a TV or Internet
ad. It has almost been forgotten that
the original iconic building at the end of Bradley Wharf fell into the harbor
during the blizzard of 1978. It was
quickly reproduced and life went on.<o:p></o:p><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_cSGE4TcBOkG96cxU2CUBTSIUDkQkigW0P0wq0qYMe8-Y385JiP_ExtYQIp5UKHKGdWNHK4jjzpL17XisuBHBfJ5OmETry2oG0yZrUQv2cfYr3gWQypkkPUo3f-XeSBpvlR-VV3slxQ/s1600/Motif+One.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_cSGE4TcBOkG96cxU2CUBTSIUDkQkigW0P0wq0qYMe8-Y385JiP_ExtYQIp5UKHKGdWNHK4jjzpL17XisuBHBfJ5OmETry2oG0yZrUQv2cfYr3gWQypkkPUo3f-XeSBpvlR-VV3slxQ/s320/Motif+One.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Motif #1 in Rockport. Often called the most photographed<br />
building in the world.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Conversely, if one were to go out on Bradley Wharf for a closer look at the red fish shack and looked back toward the town and Mt Pleasant Street they would be looking back at the row of houses mentioned above. And looking to the left at this row of houses they would be looking at the back of Rockport's number two icon, the former 19th century home of Rockport folk hero, Hannah Jumper.<br />
<br />
These two iconic buildings have drawn the attention of residents, tourists, artists and photographers since the 19th century and are familiar to people around the world but the attention these days is drawn to the Hannah Jumper house.<br />
<br />
The perfect old apple tree in the front yard of this snug house on the harbor adds the perfect touch. But beyond the quaint scene admired by passersby, the Hannah Jumper house has a story to tell. It was made famous not only for it charm but
for the lady that lived there in the 1850s; Hannah Parsons Jumper, seamstress
and house cleaner who moved into town in the early 19th century from the "Farms" on Witham Street, an outlying area of Gloucester near Good Harbor Beach.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTngFt3g-oAgn2gbPOtD_DfXvfJFm_u0K9e7R5cwM5BX5buu0zfxUnLc1C0lT8BiRFLJrg5H7VimPLQKzq_uB9e05klfZBM8YzZVmrvJJP5OHh_6OybPXI0Iq-08ssxtEB-GC0CPoKDlk/s1600/Hannah+Jumper+house+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="356" data-original-width="640" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTngFt3g-oAgn2gbPOtD_DfXvfJFm_u0K9e7R5cwM5BX5buu0zfxUnLc1C0lT8BiRFLJrg5H7VimPLQKzq_uB9e05klfZBM8YzZVmrvJJP5OHh_6OybPXI0Iq-08ssxtEB-GC0CPoKDlk/s640/Hannah+Jumper+house+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is the Hannah Jumper house in the spring, probably April with the forsythia in <br />
bloom. The apple tree is not leafed out yet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At this time Rockport was called Sandy Bay, the fifth parish of Gloucester. Its independence and the name Rockport didn't occur until around 1840.<br />
<br />
Here is the story of Hannah and her rise to fame as reported
by the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce in their Rockport USA blog.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<i><span style="color: #1d1d1d; font-family: "inherit" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">July 8, 1856, is an important date in the history of Rockport.
On that summer morning, 200 wives, mothers, daughters and assorted supporters
gathered in Dock Square to take part in an event that would have repercussions
to this very day.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2gyhYmJGyuReDmjsEjVggrQ0nEl8pj5cjC6gT7syou2F7clcK0MY3INRYtGpX7EB18ijNdFvntjFh66IOYUg7tgUjUb6MTMijxwt76o2cjhYVf3LW6kAn5tl1jB95xkqwM4sPW3UBMpU/s1600/Hannah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="245" data-original-width="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2gyhYmJGyuReDmjsEjVggrQ0nEl8pj5cjC6gT7syou2F7clcK0MY3INRYtGpX7EB18ijNdFvntjFh66IOYUg7tgUjUb6MTMijxwt76o2cjhYVf3LW6kAn5tl1jB95xkqwM4sPW3UBMpU/s1600/Hannah.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hannah Jumper looking like a proper lady but with<br />
a determined look on her face!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<i><span style="color: #1d1d1d; font-family: "inherit" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Brandishing hatchets, led by Hannah Jumper, they began their
raid. In the words of Ebenezer Pool. an eyewitness. “…On finding any keg, jug,
or cask having spirituous liquor in it…with their hatchets broke or other ways
destroyed it…” Who was Hannah Jumper? How did so many law abiding. homemakers
find the courage to follow her’?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<i><span style="color: #1d1d1d; font-family: "inherit" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Hannah Jumper, a tall, redheaded, 31 year old seamstress, left
her family’s farm in Joppa and came to Rockport in 1812. Her talent with a
needle and thread, along with her abilities to grow herbs and make medicinal
brews from them, helped her to build a pleasant life in the small fishing
community. Thus established, Hannah began to form lasting friendships with many
of the women who would later join her in the rebellion against “demon rum”.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<i><span style="color: #1d1d1d; font-family: "inherit" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Fishing was the mainstay of Rockport. However, the weather only
permitted this activity for nine months of the year. Instead of finding other
employment during their enforced three month “vacation.” the men idled away
their time and consumed enormous amounts of liquor.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<i><span style="color: #1d1d1d; font-family: "inherit" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Year after year, the economic deprivation caused by those
periods of inactivity was worsened by the money spent on spirits. The women of
the town grew increasingly frustrated and their patience wore thin. Hannah
Jumper not only shared their feeling and their concerns, but she also became
very outspoken on the subject.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<i><span style="color: #1d1d1d; font-family: "inherit" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Finally, in 1856 with the rise of the temperance movement and
the early rumblings of women’s rights being heard, the women of Rockport met
secretly to plot their historic raid. Only three men were considered
trustworthy enough to be taken into their confidence.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<i><span style="color: #1d1d1d; font-family: "inherit" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">On the morning of July 8, 1856 women from every corner of
Rockport rallied around Hannah and five other women who had assumed leadership
roles. Even at age 75, Hannah Jumper was still a formidable figure!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<i><span style="color: #1d1d1d; font-family: "inherit" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Secreting their weapons beneath lacy shawls, the protesters set
out to destroy every drop of alcohol located in places they had marked (under
cover of darkness) with a small white cross. Howls of outrage and threats of
recriminations followed the progress of the “hatchet gang”.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<i><span style="color: #1d1d1d; font-family: "inherit" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Five hours later the weary but victorious women ended their
revolt and went home to fix supper for their families.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<i><span style="color: #1d1d1d; font-family: "inherit" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">One disgruntled target of the raid, Jim Brown, took the matter
to court. The verdict, in favor of the women, was appealed time and time again.
In the end, the original verdict was upheld and Brown was ordered to pay the
court costs of $346.25 to the defendants.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<i><span style="color: #1d1d1d; font-family: "inherit" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Subsequently, Rockport became a ‘dry’ town, and remained so
until 2005, when voters approved the sale of alcoholic beverages in local restaurants.</span></i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipcAoPhudXO1g4fwN9NaxeiErNxXO-ZwOzdcdkSqhCHc9JWDWEsc19GIBTcsUQ8dLbFIkUzfI1Gx9asf2scHNbb6RTfGaYC3E0h1XtcZ7yYlJ6rgm_zaf9PRVcCnKakcYKBbme_RnaJWo7/s1600/Hannah+House+w+ABC+sign+04-09-05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; color: #29aae1; float: right; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipcAoPhudXO1g4fwN9NaxeiErNxXO-ZwOzdcdkSqhCHc9JWDWEsc19GIBTcsUQ8dLbFIkUzfI1Gx9asf2scHNbb6RTfGaYC3E0h1XtcZ7yYlJ6rgm_zaf9PRVcCnKakcYKBbme_RnaJWo7/s320/Hannah+House+w+ABC+sign+04-09-05.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border-radius: 0px; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2) 0px 0px 20px; padding: 8px; position: relative;" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">
<b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14pt;">Hannah Jumper’s house in Rockport.</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 10pt;">This photo, shot in 2005, shows the sign promoting a vote to restore sales of liquor in Rockport—right in Hannah’s front yard! She actually launched her raid while living in this house, right down next to the harbor on Mount Pleasant St. From "The Personal Navigator" blog.</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="color: #1d1d1d; font-family: "inherit" , "serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><br /></span></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Several years ago Hannah Jumper’s house came on the market
for sale. I went through it more than
once. The tiny crooked staircase, the
paneling in the parlor around the fireplace contrasted with the view of Motif 1
from the large picture window in the rear of an added on living room. The house was furnished with
traditional furniture and antiques that invited you to sit down and linger for
a while. I was thrilled and considered it a great treat to have had the
opportunity to cross its timeworn threshold.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Four or five years have passed and I have not paid attention
or noticed any particular activity there until this week. I live in Lanesville (a village in Gloucester) about four miles away so don’t often have reasons that would take me into this neighborhood until recently. A Rockport friend alerted me that the old clapboards on the house were removed
and she wondered about the necessity of doing this. I went to take a look at what she was talking
about and my heart almost stopped. Every
clapboard was gone revealing the wide sheathing boards of the house. But that is not all. The fairly wide cracks between the sheathing boards revealed an interior completely stripped of all
woodwork, plaster, paneling, mantels and doors.
It was an empty shell. Even the
ancient chimney with its fireplaces including the original cooking fireplace
with bake oven was gone.<o:p></o:p><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGdS1myBe6jQ0EfnFwWzNqueLqUCivE03gAGZrzw8dBuKf1-bO0JdBCqno2XO2E_qemLyuzbR6GpfudRkFNQKzaYTdoTfzZtIL-1pWhaJDhfA8CEeLz8uG6u1tbVp14FuPF533tAvr6ZY/s1600/DSC01473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGdS1myBe6jQ0EfnFwWzNqueLqUCivE03gAGZrzw8dBuKf1-bO0JdBCqno2XO2E_qemLyuzbR6GpfudRkFNQKzaYTdoTfzZtIL-1pWhaJDhfA8CEeLz8uG6u1tbVp14FuPF533tAvr6ZY/s320/DSC01473.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hannah Jumper house as it looks today, only a shell<br />
with no chimneys or fireplaces.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My reaction was first of sorrow turning to anger that
this could happen right under our noses just about obliterating Rockport’s (in
my opinion) icon number two. Even worse
it is located in the Rockport Historic District. (In defense of the Historical Commission it has to be understood that
they only have jurisdiction over the front façade of the house or any part seen from
a public way.)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
They had no authority over
the interior. With the main chimney, the heart and soul of an old house, also
removed should that not have been under their jurisdiction? It could certainly be seen from the public
way, Mt Pleasant St. and also from Motif 1 out on the wharf and from Bearskin
Neck. Was there a permit and approval from the Rockport Historical Commission
for that demolition?<br />
<br />
By happenstance several months ago in another ancient Gloucester house I met a man who told me he was working at the Hannah Jumper house painting and stripping the wood around the fireplace. At that time I gave him the name of a restoration mason to give to the owners and stressed how important it was to have the chimney evaluated and restored by a restoration mason. The message was delivered to the owners but as far as I know was not acted upon.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I really don’t know what has transpired since the day I
visited the house other than painting and normal maintenance . Apparently, there
were some structural problems to the underpinning which are always repairable
even if difficult in that waterfront location.
I want to know why the paneling wasn’t saved (if it wasn't) or the bricks from the
chimney or the old doors. I want to know
how such an important antique house came into the possession of an owner with
so little sensitivity to the house for which he had paid $750,000 dollars. Maybe the problem was not lack of sensitivity but simply bad advice of from workmen, neighbors or tight lipped townspeople who like to mind their own business by not saying anything or getting involved.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrcuLHYuD9GdxQU6XsTaroZF-lutiKY20QMtM634glDbA96DAitOWhuUIT5BnZG4ML7Qs9sy8ZQ-0ctI95LnrktL8WHavYIh3EBUpqiLyMuh-hdwt0YIV_rT8AeDxfyONgDr_l63hYQcA/s1600/Hannah+Jumper+clapboards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrcuLHYuD9GdxQU6XsTaroZF-lutiKY20QMtM634glDbA96DAitOWhuUIT5BnZG4ML7Qs9sy8ZQ-0ctI95LnrktL8WHavYIh3EBUpqiLyMuh-hdwt0YIV_rT8AeDxfyONgDr_l63hYQcA/s400/Hannah+Jumper+clapboards.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Demolition uncovered a section of early skived<br />
clapboards with rose head nails. Jim Laverdiere photo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Back in Gloucester my friend, Peggy Flavin, went to work researching the deed. It appears that the house dates to about 1738. It is of an unusual form. After 1730 or so all of the cottage houses on Cape Ann had the newer style gambrel roof. Hannah Jumper's house has a steep pitched roof, the only one from that period that anyone remembers seeing on Cape Ann where the gambrel roof style prevailed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The house was a hall and parlor house which means a chimney and front door in the middle and a room on each side, one a hall (kitchen) and the other a parlor. There were two chambers (bedrooms) above, one over the hall and one over the parlor. The house was only one room deep and probably four room in all. At the right hand end of the house a small barn was added or moved there at an early date. Other additions were added onto the rear of the house.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The house was carved up from time to time as portions of the house were sold. It would be expected that the apartments would be side by side as they were in recent years. Surprisingly, in this case it was the little second floor rooms with slant ceilings that were sold off from time to time with the right to pass through other parts of the house. One deed even suggested that the front door had been moved but might be moved back to its original position. So architecturally it is a cape style house with a pitched roof and a chimney in the middle; a real hall and parlor house of the early second period.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK3OXqsWDRmaFz_mhNvTi1zAmQJufLZyuuo3pGK4Jwsy0Y_IhcEpoxy_1iqny-cCncgutE6TNiMls9ZQri-gwnBubEdQzadRNety2zPKfZvYOro2ddjp6nBIOpyxOoU8d8RxslssAHO5I/s1600/DSC01476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK3OXqsWDRmaFz_mhNvTi1zAmQJufLZyuuo3pGK4Jwsy0Y_IhcEpoxy_1iqny-cCncgutE6TNiMls9ZQri-gwnBubEdQzadRNety2zPKfZvYOro2ddjp6nBIOpyxOoU8d8RxslssAHO5I/s320/DSC01476.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here it is as it looks today, Sept. 2017. The apple tree is<br />
thriving but not much else.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is too late to put Hannah's house back together. Too much of the original fabric, actually every inch of it, is
gone. But the interior could be
reproduced. According to the Gloucester
Times a demolition crew from out of town was hired to complete the destruction
of the house, an endeavor which took three weeks to complete according to the
newspaper. I would hate to think what that cost the owner but is probably why he can no longer afford to restore the interior and is planning a free-flowing, contemporary interior.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rockport has been plagued with other demolitions in recent
years. Will this deed be the event that
will galvanize the town to put the brakes on this heavy handed, inappropriate
approach to so-called “restoration"? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It would appear that there is little regard for preservation
here or anywhere and yet I know that this is not true. Almost one year ago I wrote a post in this blog about
the gutting of houses. In the first
twenty four hours after the posting 1,000 readers had viewed the blog so I know
it hit a nerve. People from all over the country were responding.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I wrote this story I received an email from a Rockport resident
who said, “<span style="background: white; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I can't stand the decimation of the Hannah Jumper House - -
just awful!</span>”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I ask, when will this demolition stop and what will you
do in your community to prevent a scenario as upsetting as the demolition that has taken place at Hannah Jumper’s house?<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Maybe the spirit of Hannah Jumper will once again galvanize the community to act and defend preservation in Rockport.<br />
<br />
<br />
POST SCRIPT<br />
The response to this post has been HUGE. I think the destruction of landmarks is really beginning to hit a nerve and elicit strong reactions. People just don't like it and resent seeing familiar icons disappear or be irrevocably altered in the name of progress or improvement. Don't hesitate to add your voice when you see bad things happening to places you love and respect. <br />
<br />
This charming painting of the Hannah Jumper house was posted today (9/24) by Bing McGilvray. It was painted by Roger Elliot Gilson, 1960s.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX19oZhkagD9CrnFgURU_DIVUF2p5xgWOsQ3Qg8pzotbOPKs5nYmWXMpwy_v1vG7E4K4aQIBk7opNdjKcSxwuHvIgyfvVHLutdIDewmKG24YoFa3q5DpNd7CRk4_jjktKQtAuz2cvKvLY/s1600/Hannah+Jumper+old+painting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="746" data-original-width="960" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX19oZhkagD9CrnFgURU_DIVUF2p5xgWOsQ3Qg8pzotbOPKs5nYmWXMpwy_v1vG7E4K4aQIBk7opNdjKcSxwuHvIgyfvVHLutdIDewmKG24YoFa3q5DpNd7CRk4_jjktKQtAuz2cvKvLY/s400/Hannah+Jumper+old+painting.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_830122091"></span><span id="goog_830122092"></span><br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-9321491534363082102017-08-21T16:47:00.000-07:002017-08-21T17:10:45.038-07:00ANNOUNCEMENT<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">ABBOTT LOWELL CUMMINGS</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">On June 20th I reported the death of Abbott Lowell Cummings, a man who was an inspiration to those of us who are dedicated to the study and well being of early houses. Here is your opportunity to express your appreciation for his tremendous contribution to the history of New England houses.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">https://prudencefish.blogspot.com/2017/06/abbott-lowell-cummings-mentor-to-many_20.html</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><u><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A MEMORIAL SERVICE
FOR ABBOTT LOWELL CUMMINGS<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Thursday <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">October 12, 2017<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">3:00 P.M.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Old West Church<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">131 Cambridge Street<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Boston<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">(<i>next door to the Harrison Gray Otis House</i>)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reception to follow at <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The Colonial Society of Massachusetts
<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">87 Mount Vernon Street<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">A trolley
will be available to shuttle participants up Beacon Hill<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">to the
Colonial Society</span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For further
information:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Donald Friary<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<a href="mailto:donaldfriary@comcast.net"><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">donaldfriary@comcast.net</span></b></a><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">978-745-0184<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-70369005456757227532017-08-07T19:10:00.000-07:002017-08-07T19:17:55.283-07:00DON'T YOU TELL ME WHAT COLOR TO PAINT MY HOUSE!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
LIVING IN AN HISTORIC DISTRICT</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Right off the top let me assure you that there are very few places that tell you what color to paint your house. You probably won't ever have to deal with that although I can't make that promise. Paint is cosmetic and I don't believe in dictating color. I would like to say that regulating color is a myth but you would probably tell me that in some places it is real and I would believe you. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
First of all there are two kinds of historic districts and it makes a difference which one you live in or in which you might buy property. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A National Register District is a Federal District. Buildings in the area are designated as contributing to the district if they are truly important or non contributing if they are newer or insignificant in some way. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places is not based solely on age or condition. Other qualifications are not architectural but based on who lived there. Did someone famous or important in some way live there? Other qualifying criteria can be linked to an important event in history that took place there and distinguishes the house.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In spite of these designations there are no rules governing the National Register District and no restrictions whatsoever on any of the buildings. You can tear them down unless there are other local regulations that prevent that. So just being in a district does not restrict a homeowner whatsoever.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Many times I have heard people state that they would never live in a National Register District because you have to open your house to the public one day per year. That rumor persists! I have heard it over and over. It simply is not true and never was.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Another but more stringent form of historic district is a local historic district; an area or neighborhood determined by the city or town in which you live to be significant and it does come with restrictions. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This means that if you are going to alter any exterior part of the house that can be seen from a public way you must go before an historic district commission for approval before the local building inspector can issue you a building permit. This is much more serious oversight than what comes with living in a National Register District. But remember it only pertains to the exterior including the front facade of the house and maybe the sides if they are visible from your street or another street in the area. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you already live in a local district or yearning to buy a particular house in the district you need to be accepting of the fact that there is another layer of supervision over your house. The requirements are not that restrictive but if you have a "don't tell me what to do" attitude toward property ownership in it may not be the best place for you to settle in. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
On the positive side living in a local district insures you that your neighbors are under the same supervision and covenants and nothing terrible is going to change that will bring down the value of your house or deteriorate the neighborhood. Living outside the district leaves you much more vulnerable. Personally, I would love to live in an historic district protected from disastrous changes in the area. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So before you make a decision to move into a local historic district here are some of the things that will be expected of you.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Improvements or changes can be OK. But a general rule of thumb is that if you replace any parts of the exterior know that you will probably have to replace them with like materials which in many instances will be wood. Again, remember that this does not pertain to the entire exterior but only what is seen from a street.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If your house was adversely treated before the district was designated you will not be forced to change anything. However when you do decide to correct and upgrade you will have to do it appropriately.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Big items are siding, windows and doors. If you bought the house with vinyl siding or older aluminum siding or asbestos you will not be forced to remove it. If you do remove it you will either restore what is underneath or replace the exterior with wood clapboards or shingles, whichever would have been on your house previous to the siding.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Windows should be restored. Replacement windows such as vinyl windows with snap in grids have no place in the historic district and cheapen a house whether it is in a district or not. Homeowners have been sold a bill of goods by window companies, lumber yards and building supply houses. Original windows, sometimes with wavy glass can be restored. Rotted sections can be replaced as needed, glass can be replaced pane by pane or the whole window re-glazed. Windows and doors can last for hundreds of years. They really can. A replacement window has a life expectancy of 20 to 30 years! Wood window sash that are working properly and have a good storm window inside or outside, are just as energy efficient as an unattractive replacement window that you will have to replace again down the road. If the neighbor's kids throw a rock that breaks your replacement window it cannot be repaired. You will have to buy a complete new window at great expense. <br />
<br />
Nothing is prettier than a small paned, true divided lite window with individually set panes of glass. When the sun reflects off the old panes set at slightly different angles or perhaps old enough to be wavy these "eyes" of the house speak volumes. Please don't even consider relegating them to the dumpster in exchange for an inferior replacement even if your house isn't in an historic district and even if it isn't antique.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Doors in an historic district without a doubt will be wood. Repair the door if possible or replace it with a similar wood door. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Synthetic materials like vinyl or fiberglass are never going to be appropriate. Don't even think about it. You will waste your time if you live in a local historic district and try fight for approval of these materials. The same goes for steel doors which do not even come close to being acceptable and eventually rust out. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
There isn't much room for exceptions. If the commission goes out on a limb because they feel sorry for you it is the beginning of the end for the district. How can you turn down an applicant who points a finger at a neighbor who got away with an inappropriate change? There has to be a level playing field with no exceptions.<br />
<br />
For most admirers of old houses there is more beauty in a shabby but honest house than in a neat,and tidy house wrapped in vinyl with the hollow eyes of replacement windows with or without grids.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you are already living in a district you are well aware that there are rules and regulations governing your house. If you anticipate doing work on your house first have an informal conversation with the local commission to get input and a feel for what you can do before you invest money on an architect or purchasing new materials. When you do approach the historic district commission in your community come armed with photos or samples of the materials you wish to use.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you are thinking of buying a house in a local district and are resistant to the regulations think twice about living there and don't put yourself in a situation that will be contentious.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
One common myth is that historic districts have control over color. Perhaps some of the older districts were overly restrictive but most districts don't address color and they shouldn't. Color is cosmetic. It is somewhat temporary and will eventually be changed and therefore not anything worth getting too upset about. Color doesn't physically damage a house. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Landscaping is also exempt from control. The covenants can change from town to town and from one part of the country to another.<br />
<br />
Don't put the local commission on the spot by asking permission for siding, replacement windows or steel doors. It won't work. Don't ask. Not around here in New England anyway.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Living in an historic neighborhood should be a treat and something to be proud of. But if you think you can convince those in charge to make an exception and bend the rules for things you might want to do, perhaps living in an historic district is a mistake. If commissions were to begin making exceptions it would mark the beginning of the end of an historic district. Everyone has to be treated the same. If the commissions turns down your application they are not picking on you. They are doing their job to protect the integrity of the neighborhood historic district long after most occupants have moved on.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Each historic district has its ordinances and each commission is made up of individuals with different ideas or levels of knowledge. But for the most part there is nothing being asked of the residents of an historic district that is unreasonable or hard to live with. Again, don't try to persuade the commission to break the rules. Just take pride in your house and neighborhood. Be happy knowing that you are protected on all sides and enjoy your good fortune in being able to live in a special place.<br />
<br />
If you live in the New England area and have deteriorating true divided lite windows, before you throw them in the dumpster consider a call or a visit to the Window Woman of New England, centrally located in Amesbury, MA.<br />
<br />
https://www.facebook.com/WindowWomanNE/<br />
<br />
If you are considering replacement windows, Allison Hardy will change your mind!<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading. And please think twice before you invest in replacement windows, vinyl siding or steel doors. You will save money and your house will be good for another hundred years!<br />
<br />
Pru<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-53388326335893018782017-08-02T10:45:00.002-07:002017-08-02T10:45:46.580-07:00BEAMS, BEAMS AND MORE BEAMS <div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">A TERRIBLE FAD THAT HAS BECOME THE NORM</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This is an open letter to owners of old houses and prospective owners of old houses. This post is about BEAMS!<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Every homeowner, especially new homeowners, take much pride in their new home ownership. At least that is my observation. Certainly all want to beautify their houses and in doing so express their taste as they make their new house their home reflecting their interests and style. I can't believe that they would deliberately damage the biggest investment of their life. They wouldn't knowingly choose to decrease its monetary value, beauty or integrity by hurting the house would they?<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So why do so many do damage to their new house anyway?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnpCOGFi6G3OqRXFkic3n7RJZbU8EbBHGXT7TlHWxgUwV9IHm6p9Y9W9Eogaz1DkKOhNVKo_k63KvkJB52KNKKQ1fWDhYHhV1Xhp1zzu3TJvt8Ti6zCy8GponxJrFS3nEgpMg9rZZPYFw/s1600/Beams+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="579" data-original-width="607" height="610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnpCOGFi6G3OqRXFkic3n7RJZbU8EbBHGXT7TlHWxgUwV9IHm6p9Y9W9Eogaz1DkKOhNVKo_k63KvkJB52KNKKQ1fWDhYHhV1Xhp1zzu3TJvt8Ti6zCy8GponxJrFS3nEgpMg9rZZPYFw/s640/Beams+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crude brown beams in an otherwise nice room.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It has to be because they don't know any better and are jumping on a destructive band wagon. No one has cautioned them and so they follow so many other owners of antique houses and do as they do, like sheep. They assume that what they are doing is restoration; clueless that they are making grave and irreversible mistakes. Removing any of the original fabric of the house is a mistake.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
For forty years people have said to me, "Pru. You have to see this house! It is all restored. You're going to love it. The owners have exposed the beams and...." "Stop right there", I want to scream at them. "I don't want to see another house with exposed beams...ever!" (unless it's first period, of course)<br />
<br />
From the earliest building dates in the 17th century the houses in the New World were post medieval. That doesn't mean crude. Early settlers brought their building style with them from England.<br />
<br />
From the mid 1600s until the 1720s, approximately, the time at which the earliest houses appeared, they were built with very heavy framing and this framing was exposed. This is called the "First Period" architecturally speaking. These houses were not rough. There were no adz marks showing. All the edges of the beams, especially the summer beams were dressed with chamfers. There were no sharp edges. A 17th century house would have dramatically large beams dressed with fine and bold chamfers. We call these decorated frames.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDHw7dYe26D4CFrbCbJ-aiupwnDibKgdp3a12nK2reopyebD2HGI1NOvA-GPGTy5WEbnWznzFYtUfz84RjvZffL8glJ5_1NjwUxXf_H3eVI-tLp-InRHoxrS3Eugxcnp115ryJTEBMh8/s1600/beam+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDHw7dYe26D4CFrbCbJ-aiupwnDibKgdp3a12nK2reopyebD2HGI1NOvA-GPGTy5WEbnWznzFYtUfz84RjvZffL8glJ5_1NjwUxXf_H3eVI-tLp-InRHoxrS3Eugxcnp115ryJTEBMh8/s640/beam+7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This photo clearly shows the decorated edge, (chamfer) on the summer beam. This is a first period room<br />
and is of the period when the framing of the house with its chamfers was meant to be seen. After this period<br />
the framing members of the house were carefully hidden away and not meant to be seen by human eyes. This is<br />
a room from Ipswich, MA removed to the Metropolitan Museum in New York. Ipswich has the largest collection<br />
of early houses.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
That really concludes the story of correctly exposed beams in America and it is only circa 1725! So unless your house is about 300 or more years old don't even imagine that it ever has had exposed beams and don't go looking for them! Perhaps some did; there are always exceptions but don't count on it.<br />
<br />
There are not too many houses remaining that were built before 1725. That means there should not be too many appropriately exposed beams. Period! Where I live in Gloucester, MA, a town settled in 1623, there are only about ten houses remaining from the first period and perhaps as few as two date to the 17th century.<br />
<br />
In the first period when exposed beams were legitimate they were white washed, not left brown. So beamed ceilings should be a rare feature. Right? And they should be whitewashed<br />
<br />
Moving into the second architectural period from let's say from about 1725-1730 to the 1790s, depending somewhat on where you live, many, many houses were built. If there were protruding framing posts in the corners or a summer beam above, all were covered (boxed) with smooth boards with beaded edges. These boxes were painted the same color as the rest of the woodwork in the room. Plaster covered the floor joists above.<br />
<br />
After 1725 (as well as before) refinement was what builders and home owners were striving for. Practically all woodwork was painted or would be as soon as finances, time or choices were arranged. There are occasional exceptions but we are talking about the norm.<br />
<br />
Somewhere along the way the error of exposing rough hewn beams with adz marks and rough joists became synonymous with restoration. Nothing could be further from the truth. It is wrong, wrong, wrong<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbPCIbSrTlDGXxUD_EKDNHW-DViDa1eTB2EiMdBVlfaRIinI4Vawkdon-c7uAiX_sfL4CMjJF9HjtDzX0E-O0Xrx_gMU6zOHFh3xneT3IcrDC338gsriiMIMcCOAtiFTvp7Pv4YJ5FlgU/s1600/Beams+4.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="598" data-original-width="800" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbPCIbSrTlDGXxUD_EKDNHW-DViDa1eTB2EiMdBVlfaRIinI4Vawkdon-c7uAiX_sfL4CMjJF9HjtDzX0E-O0Xrx_gMU6zOHFh3xneT3IcrDC338gsriiMIMcCOAtiFTvp7Pv4YJ5FlgU/s640/Beams+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovely room but why the rough beams?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: left;"> The imagined necessity of exposing ugly brown overhead has caught on and taken off much like the destructive movement to get rid of your old wood window sash in order to buy cheap replacement windows that cost a lot of money and have to be replaced again in twenty to thirty years. Homeowners have fallen hook, line and sinker for these destructive fads. When I see brown splintery beams and the underside of the second floor floorboards I want to cover my eyes. It is painful to look at a destroyed ceiling knowing the plaster has been hauled off in the dumpster.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Whether on the Internet or in Realtor ads it is obvious that a smooth plaster ceiling is an endangered species.This damage is evident when you see the photos of otherwise nice old houses restored with love by a caring owner with a lot of hard work and a lot of money who has not done their homework.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCrZ4hh5cALXMLGEVkeImeLDAbE4qDXTxnlyYxcn9xGQrwr14fqD0unAfBcbgDMIL4ouGgAcufa4hJYbUqwkIlRiNC6BLHveoQm38Np1AwyFT6V4E8dYdoQDo4d7N3tEmyuRUBB_OxeNA/s1600/Beams+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="800" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCrZ4hh5cALXMLGEVkeImeLDAbE4qDXTxnlyYxcn9xGQrwr14fqD0unAfBcbgDMIL4ouGgAcufa4hJYbUqwkIlRiNC6BLHveoQm38Np1AwyFT6V4E8dYdoQDo4d7N3tEmyuRUBB_OxeNA/s320/Beams+6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A nice old house from the 1830 until they did this. Ugly ceiling<br />
unpainted mantel, stripped and urethaned floor, and bricks<br />
surrounding the firebox that should have been parged. <br />
Unfortunately rooms that look like this are everywhere and they<br />
should not be considered restored</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
Save the integrity of your house and do your pocketbooks a favor. The worst plaster ceilings can be saved.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you live in an antique house and still have plaster ceilings, for Heaven's sake, leave those plaster ceilings alone! Rough beams belong in the barn.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This concludes the rant that has been percolating in my mind for some time. You will all probably think of exceptions, I can think of some myself, but don't dwell on them. They are few and far between.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
Thanks for reading and thanks for putting up with my tirade. Everywhere I look lately at what I think should be a lovely old house I am disappointed when I find that the house has already fallen prey to the ceiling wreckers.<br />
<br />
Pru<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-50822413481336973112017-07-16T11:51:00.000-07:002017-07-22T05:03:14.717-07:00THE RETURN OF THE SOUP TUREEN<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<o:p><br /></o:p>
<o:p><br /></o:p>
<o:p> <span style="font-size: large;">WHERE, OH WHERE HAS IT BEEN?</span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is an amazing and convoluted story of an interesting 19<sup>th</sup>
century family and the adventures of their heirloom soup tureen.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNxvE0pEzbrXuh-XPraMUcQZnPvr-UGPqa4dvtrR6ImFmd85icao0NS1mmjY-oQK92YKgyRWQ126ixCxIk9Mvk0p5YLrJb4UUvhjhpajIjG7cIFjF7jVJs0Ujm-3NdS7bL7uFaMzdJRbU/s1600/restored+soup+tureen+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNxvE0pEzbrXuh-XPraMUcQZnPvr-UGPqa4dvtrR6ImFmd85icao0NS1mmjY-oQK92YKgyRWQ126ixCxIk9Mvk0p5YLrJb4UUvhjhpajIjG7cIFjF7jVJs0Ujm-3NdS7bL7uFaMzdJRbU/s400/restored+soup+tureen+002.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Victorian Soup Tureen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On February 1, 1869 Herbert Small of Boston married Sarah
Elizabeth Morton of Newton called Lizzie. They were
married in Boston. He was the son of
Samuel Small, a manufacturer of black keys for pianos, and Ann (Morley)
Small. Sarah was the daughter of William
Morton and Elizabeth (Kurtz) Morton an affluent couple from Newton, MA.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXNB9wV1B45UUI2mMrFD-nomyJGGUb5inkEoUPCUntNnh2hxP8XvcmdTjXSucHB4B1CzsZzEmq_dXbd3dkVMi4qrkqip54S1ENX01JlGhrP8TZMdSiC_RZ92t_LqvN4gCggD4yeAaQ0p0/s1600/Morley+family+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="829" data-original-width="1047" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXNB9wV1B45UUI2mMrFD-nomyJGGUb5inkEoUPCUntNnh2hxP8XvcmdTjXSucHB4B1CzsZzEmq_dXbd3dkVMi4qrkqip54S1ENX01JlGhrP8TZMdSiC_RZ92t_LqvN4gCggD4yeAaQ0p0/s320/Morley+family+tree.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Herbert Morley (1844-1935) and Elizabeth Morton Morley (1843-1929)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Within a few years with the help of a loan from William
Morton this young couple moved to the village of Baldwinville in central
Massachusetts, in the town of Templeton, where Herbert Small built a paper mill on the Otter River. He
also built a large Italianate house on a hill overlooking the mill that
ultimately had 14 rooms for their growing family of five boys.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTA4EUybsvVqKGAdGTkyFFaGc_pC50SGUEYrNLbaUyAKxKKA6n0azqXMidUHFNRLz1m0ev_17yGJ6OKRZh27LG3v8_n-p-cFUW0BqTGwnhZ3Mfg1QGbIHWduWP-c2sdrjQwNafWXa0wJY/s1600/Back+of+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="678" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTA4EUybsvVqKGAdGTkyFFaGc_pC50SGUEYrNLbaUyAKxKKA6n0azqXMidUHFNRLz1m0ev_17yGJ6OKRZh27LG3v8_n-p-cFUW0BqTGwnhZ3Mfg1QGbIHWduWP-c2sdrjQwNafWXa0wJY/s320/Back+of+house.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVrBxvKAX46lBgWxnGsPHBmk_qDj72ogBCSWjjeTDPTj3-l-S4kvE7ytk3eN__2IwaXvtQCfoQta5LG87xXK9_oUEaE6l6FZFrvNqF6fIeYhfHlBqPLZrEHfE7KXQFtuC98a1iNrVxcGU/s1600/Morley+photos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1041" data-original-width="1600" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVrBxvKAX46lBgWxnGsPHBmk_qDj72ogBCSWjjeTDPTj3-l-S4kvE7ytk3eN__2IwaXvtQCfoQta5LG87xXK9_oUEaE6l6FZFrvNqF6fIeYhfHlBqPLZrEHfE7KXQFtuC98a1iNrVxcGU/s640/Morley+photos.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Morley house in Templeton, MA in the village of Baldwinville. That interesting roof on the left is the well house.<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzkn1ItbNNUOAYREhDXf5J4LmJvDkPNuUTgdWmYC1G2kRp5cuAMhQIbpTiTBRfF-FCPWzTCd9-t4Ow6O_TtHz9qrtYiCDJ2gW5IvNxJYjfdagk7l8DtW_6G7vNxxX4S8a8NVLJoEMqroA/s1600/Morley+family+tree+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1488" data-original-width="954" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzkn1ItbNNUOAYREhDXf5J4LmJvDkPNuUTgdWmYC1G2kRp5cuAMhQIbpTiTBRfF-FCPWzTCd9-t4Ow6O_TtHz9qrtYiCDJ2gW5IvNxJYjfdagk7l8DtW_6G7vNxxX4S8a8NVLJoEMqroA/s640/Morley+family+tree+-+Copy.jpg" width="409" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Five Morley brothers. My mother's husband,<br />
Sumner, is at the bottom. (1886-1920)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This somewhat well-to-do family was extremely
intellectual. Mr. Small graduated
from Amherst College in the 1860s. Their
house was home to a large library. They were active in the community and the
children were well educated. All
attended Goddard Seminary in Barre, Vermont and most went on to Tufts becoming
professors and teachers. They were home schooled
in their earlier years by teachers who lived with the family. As the children grew older they traveled to Europe frequently with their father.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Strangely enough, in the 1890s Mr. Small decided to do away
with their last name: Small. He decided
that he would take his mother’s maiden name: Morley. So the entire family kept Small as their
middle name but took Morley as their surname. Some say they changed their name
because all being well over six feet tall didn’t appreciate being called Small. Others said that the name Morley had more
cache and that is probably more like it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This move confused many who thought Mr. Morley had taken his wife’s
maiden name: Morton, and concluded that he was so hen-pecked that he was forced
to take her name which was really not the case although the rumor persisted. But their
last name became Morley and not Morton.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My mother who had moved to this village to teach the second
grade. She soon <span style="text-align: center;">fell in love with the youngest son, already a widower, whose young wife had died in a terrible train wreck in Bridgeport, Ct. in 1910. By this time (1914) the Mortons in Newton had died and with the children grown Herbert Small Morley and his wife went to Newton to live in the Morton’s commodious house leaving the big house in Templeton (Baldwinville) for my mother and her new husband to live in.</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibPNalQ1ioTx3GR2aw9GP4pSsrI22ROsOOPkMbJnian6YvNPyEDh94EGP4uM_PaxBlnkVfrQWDqTGZJY5iPvxQ5ZDtoTOVM7BlWeBtySiYY9eZzl8HRaoOdywEDBzaIrAZQWxEvAfjJhw/s1600/B%2527ville+2nd+grade+circa+1912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1129" data-original-width="1600" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibPNalQ1ioTx3GR2aw9GP4pSsrI22ROsOOPkMbJnian6YvNPyEDh94EGP4uM_PaxBlnkVfrQWDqTGZJY5iPvxQ5ZDtoTOVM7BlWeBtySiYY9eZzl8HRaoOdywEDBzaIrAZQWxEvAfjJhw/s640/B%2527ville+2nd+grade+circa+1912.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My mother with her second grade class, about 1913</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBlT3ikmYsbkGHpxzimcr-olsMx6H5ZJmGIAJnNQyfDUvcd9j_aQUa2bI2f7daMGVP39w24zKWa2DGsS7_afuLkF2lSg6BlT-lLObrHLqNt6Idw2qsersO-Cz3w-pmWPTFfPH8cWEHQhw/s1600/Newton+House.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="260" data-original-width="423" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBlT3ikmYsbkGHpxzimcr-olsMx6H5ZJmGIAJnNQyfDUvcd9j_aQUa2bI2f7daMGVP39w24zKWa2DGsS7_afuLkF2lSg6BlT-lLObrHLqNt6Idw2qsersO-Cz3w-pmWPTFfPH8cWEHQhw/s640/Newton+House.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Morton house at 119 Cedar Street in Newton, MA. Demolished in the 1930s for a subdivision.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sadly, only five years into the marriage my mother’s husband died suddenly but she was able to stay on in the house for many years before
remarrying. She ultimately came into possession of numerous items some of which
were inscribed with an “S”, possibly wedding presents for the Smalls in 1869.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In my childhood I was very much aware of the big Morley
house, now unoccupied but a perfectly intact example of an 1870s Italianate house, a time capsule with all
the furniture, appointments and decorations still in place. My mother, being the only Morley relative left in the area became caretaker of the house for her former in-laws. Frequently she would take the big brass key to the double front doors off its hook and would go to check on the house with me in tow. In that way, although very young, I became acquainted with this great place as we moved through the house from room to room making sure everything was in order.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In our dining room was an item of interest perhaps dating
to the marriage of Herbert and Sarah Elizabeth.
It was a large silver plated soup tureen. The finial on the lid was a cow and the
handles on the sides of the tureen were cows’ heads. It was a product of the Reed and Barton
silver factory and quite a curiosity to all who saw it, made at a time when
there were silver items for every possible use. There were many figural pieces with animals or
birds as part of the design. But a cow of all things takes the cake.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqDaSyZ8VbBQcoAYv7xudw0E-hHV0g0a8F55Zr4nMgYdN64D_5V6g6r3CDAx4tEaTOkYVa0NsJ9_YMb7yI_mBTNF64bpCsSuyjZ7y9V6A_1QoP_rXHSJdbwnGCOK6YV5P2zrm2sRlSA_s/s1600/Morley+Tureen+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqDaSyZ8VbBQcoAYv7xudw0E-hHV0g0a8F55Zr4nMgYdN64D_5V6g6r3CDAx4tEaTOkYVa0NsJ9_YMb7yI_mBTNF64bpCsSuyjZ7y9V6A_1QoP_rXHSJdbwnGCOK6YV5P2zrm2sRlSA_s/s320/Morley+Tureen+002.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The handle on the lid of the tureen was this cow!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It had another distinguishing feature. At some time in the 19<sup>th</sup> century a
Morley maid had placed the tureen on the back of the big black kitchen stove to
keep the soup warm. But at that time
silver plating was done on brittania or similar soft pewter-like metal. It was inevitable that the heat from the
stove would melt the pedestal base of the tureen leaving it warped and wobbly
with a rather big piece missing and that is exactly what happened. The tureen remained
unsteady on its base for all time.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiYXrfjAmUS4Yetbxo0M7LRHHE_5JGr00gHzUQtDEp0jrvm0gkrJcsHzMto6wHNQhU-MBmiNQaFAWZHyVmpEBzOgrZSYGNzzKVPTEQKTyoQNVZ4yvhVWHqTUeU5Uw_dcVnxjIC2T0n6Ss/s1600/Morley+Tureen+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiYXrfjAmUS4Yetbxo0M7LRHHE_5JGr00gHzUQtDEp0jrvm0gkrJcsHzMto6wHNQhU-MBmiNQaFAWZHyVmpEBzOgrZSYGNzzKVPTEQKTyoQNVZ4yvhVWHqTUeU5Uw_dcVnxjIC2T0n6Ss/s320/Morley+Tureen+004.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Badly damaged pedestal under the soup tureen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ultimately the tureen came down to me and went with me to Connecticut, then back to Massachusetts to our next house in Newburyport. In Newburyport it was not on display but stashed
in a closet. Although buried deep in the
back of the closet it was not overlooked by burglars who took it along with a
great deal of much better solid silver.
The loss was great. It probably
was a disappointment to the thieves to find out that the big tureen was not
sterling and could not be melted down for money.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fast forward to somewhere around 2010. As usual I attended a Sunday flea market with a friend. My friend purchased a large doll house and we
had to pick it up in my wagon. This
necessitated driving through the crowded flea market very slowly and
cautiously. The aisles were filled with
pedestrians and shoppers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Suddenly, much to the surprise of my passenger friend, I slammed on my
brakes, shoved my car into park and jumped out.
On one of the tables was a soup tureen!
And it had a cow finial! I knew
that if it had a melted pedestal it was mine...and it did!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The unsuspecting dealer said, “Have you ever seen anything
like that before?” “Yes”, I
replied. “It’s mine.” Perhaps I wasn't very tactful but he was not at all gracious about this. I ended
up paying him $35.00 for it. He was not
happy. I never thought that he was the
thief and he wasn’t. He had obtained it
from an antique “picker” named Brian.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After some searching I located Brian, the picker, from Hampton, NH who told me that he made it
a habit to stop by a scrap metal shop in Amesbury, MA where they would
sometimes set aside things that came in that were of interest and that is where
he found the tureen sitting on a shelf. This scrap yard was less than five miles from where it had been stolen more than thirty years
previously. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was in bad shape, dented and tarnished, no doubt left in
a cellar or barn to be kicked around when the thieves found out that they couldn’t turn it into
cash.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKIyIQ-wzWxZ3GpswMg_fxsHMlq28IMfv9ALKmckShKFsAlHzFJGpT2OuZOl8-aDVSpXP63bbjxajIxWcpPdv_VqfENmmPUWuSEevJyDxLcsTUU0GjiBAKriR_zG2Iy-Oa9-LQ78n4EZk/s1600/Morley+Tureen+007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKIyIQ-wzWxZ3GpswMg_fxsHMlq28IMfv9ALKmckShKFsAlHzFJGpT2OuZOl8-aDVSpXP63bbjxajIxWcpPdv_VqfENmmPUWuSEevJyDxLcsTUU0GjiBAKriR_zG2Iy-Oa9-LQ78n4EZk/s320/Morley+Tureen+007.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The melted pedestal on the tureen.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Off went the tureen to a repair and replating shop. At great expense it was brought back to
life. But what about the damaged
pedestal? To repair that ancient damage
would cost several hundred dollars more.
All agreed that the wobbly base was part of its history; part of the
story, and that I should leave it alone and that is what I decided to do. They did attach a small round leg to stabilize
it a bit but that is all. It won’t tip
over but it still wobbles.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirycLSlOyL05od9-zYzTiAGQYo3dTFBb8CbkwIR0SuLEXwgX2vhbNz8W__te7m4_BTIV18RQup9OvEGb03zBgaprilCl0dNaZRipnQoh_l5fWZHilXpDYMlfhxolKzs1NAG2PyRVdb7sU/s1600/restored+soup+tureen+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirycLSlOyL05od9-zYzTiAGQYo3dTFBb8CbkwIR0SuLEXwgX2vhbNz8W__te7m4_BTIV18RQup9OvEGb03zBgaprilCl0dNaZRipnQoh_l5fWZHilXpDYMlfhxolKzs1NAG2PyRVdb7sU/s640/restored+soup+tureen+006.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The restored soup tureen. Shining but still wobbling!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A year later at the flea market someone told me that a man named Brian was looking for me. I found
him along with his wife. It was the picker who had rescued the tureen from the scrap yard the year before.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
These wonderful
people presented me with a coffee table book; the history of Reed and Barton silver. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIRFccAZZl1qcNpDPyCWZN_Sa9m0-t0Kt2uhuq0h7m1PBF23oeiCCCAbbY34IrRivZ47BvwtCfI9eoUXF80eef25rE9hFklKAe9mj07jtaorME2H1mdA9hB4sJ0UE9j9US-BV5fzY4eJI/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1273" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIRFccAZZl1qcNpDPyCWZN_Sa9m0-t0Kt2uhuq0h7m1PBF23oeiCCCAbbY34IrRivZ47BvwtCfI9eoUXF80eef25rE9hFklKAe9mj07jtaorME2H1mdA9hB4sJ0UE9j9US-BV5fzY4eJI/s400/001.jpg" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The history of Reed and Barton silver</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Best of all in the book was a picture of the tureen.
They were so happy to have played a role in finding the tureen. It was a great contrast to the dealer who was such a sore loser than he hasn't spoken to me since although I see him nearly every week at the flea market.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWWH6kGVjwbNAFgsMs2DW2A3CnIWLy-Gf7npd0dF1vhv4eVUqrw2zxEu51v4V7KNK5aiz2C3Z4-7upOV7WFK1DBYNyOQa_uZ3BAydtJTy-tma2GLZevKqMXdMZW4w5-_O2g4DHeLJxqs4/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="914" data-original-width="1237" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWWH6kGVjwbNAFgsMs2DW2A3CnIWLy-Gf7npd0dF1vhv4eVUqrw2zxEu51v4V7KNK5aiz2C3Z4-7upOV7WFK1DBYNyOQa_uZ3BAydtJTy-tma2GLZevKqMXdMZW4w5-_O2g4DHeLJxqs4/s320/002.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the pages of "Sterling Classics: <br />
The Reed and Barton Story", Taunton,<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> MA 1998. The decorative band</span><br />
around the middle is more ornate than mine but<br />
out of the same mold!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small; text-align: left;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">As I polished the Morley soup tureen, circa 1870s, I thought about its history and
how it found its way back to me. It had been
gone so long that even my now middle aged children didn’t recognize it or
remember when we had it on display in our Connecticut house. They were too
young and it had been too long a</span>go.</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Not so for me. I remember
it in my childhood in our dining room and later in my own dining room
in Connecticut before it came with me back to Massachusetts and the house in
Newburyport from which it was stolen. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I will never know where it was for the intervening years but
I know it was not very far away. Now it
is in my dining room in Gloucester…safe and sound but not worth nearly as much
monetarily as I paid to have it fixed!!
I had to make it right and I’m glad I did. There are some things on which you just can’t
put a price tag.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After polishing the tureen and other items I decided to
continue this Sunday afternoon settling down<br />
comfortably with my lap top to record the story of my soup tureen. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJJDK8MwkaKYDp8RWQylWmStZC3ovKZB2rFWuuIBuK_ElHsaB6U7uLVI9yE6z5GsH2L2ANgtshACXeon1n-hjaAj8nUW9NsM7NY5FEJja3RXBNEX_dze2zQ1Ir6vVYY4982HOubfUKh8/s1600/Ma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1194" data-original-width="792" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJJDK8MwkaKYDp8RWQylWmStZC3ovKZB2rFWuuIBuK_ElHsaB6U7uLVI9yE6z5GsH2L2ANgtshACXeon1n-hjaAj8nUW9NsM7NY5FEJja3RXBNEX_dze2zQ1Ir6vVYY4982HOubfUKh8/s320/Ma.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarah Elizabeth Morton Morley</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I hope you find the story of the tureen's recovery as remarkable as I think it was. When you lose something I don't believe you ever stop looking. This time I was lucky but excited to have it back.<br />
<br />
Now if I could only find the impressive leather cased fish set with fork and fish slice so beautifully engraved by Farrington and Hunnewell of Boston or the matching leather cased soup ladle, also from the shop of Farrington and Hunnewell; or the eighteen Boston silver serving spoons, mostly from Newell Harding that came to me from my father's family or the twelve 1830 coin teaspoons in their original box and tissue paper and monogrammed with an H for Howard from an old house in East Templeton now torn down and replaced by a convenience store. The list could go on and on. Unfortunately, I'm sure their fate was to be melted down. <br />
<br />
It is doubtful that I will find anything else but I will never stop looking. You never know.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading,<br />
<br />
<br />
NOTES<br />
<br />
<pre style="background-color: whitesmoke; border-radius: 4px; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: Monaco, Menlo, Consolas, "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.42857; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 9.5px; white-space: pre-wrap; word-break: break-all; word-wrap: break-word;">MORTON STREET
Morton Street, from Mill to Homer Street,
is marked on the 1 848 map, though the
location is that of the present Cedar
Street. The street was probably William
Morton's private driveway. Both Morton
and Cedar Streets were accepted by the
City in 1908.</pre>
<pre style="background-color: whitesmoke; border-radius: 4px; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: Monaco, Menlo, Consolas, "Courier New", monospace; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.42857; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 9.5px; white-space: pre-wrap; word-break: break-all; word-wrap: break-word;"> Mr. Morton's estate described in King's
Handbook of Newton as a "gothic villa"
was just north of Cedar Street. He sold
ten acres of the estate to local
speculators in 1 847 with the following
restrictions: "that there shall not be built </pre>
<br />
<br />
Pru<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK8Y8VjEFK6kQwTjY60LkIADAF78PtdbYiFsreVIASv8k85n6M8f9GgWj7qfboNUwwPUL_gkLCjlXM5lyNghOZCcXOme-1ABle93h2oQ1iTxcTpNyWaarHjnHmLokY-uplQIKokNrMxbU/s1600/Morley+Parlor+newton.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1220" data-original-width="1600" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK8Y8VjEFK6kQwTjY60LkIADAF78PtdbYiFsreVIASv8k85n6M8f9GgWj7qfboNUwwPUL_gkLCjlXM5lyNghOZCcXOme-1ABle93h2oQ1iTxcTpNyWaarHjnHmLokY-uplQIKokNrMxbU/s320/Morley+Parlor+newton.bmp" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Victorian parlor in the Newton house.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-29211201182090878332017-06-26T13:27:00.000-07:002017-09-29T23:32:37.691-07:00THIS FIRST PERIOD ANTIQUE HOUSE COULD BE YOURS!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
AUTHENTICITY AND INTEGRITY PREVAIL HERE<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVhl9y_LHYPEkwXv77JmIrIXN9PU0jYmSnCn6zi_QuKYiyVZfrT8HB8yoj_xOeYOugihgxWluYQMuH0fwMeUsLlxRnBlf-ZR7Jyuv5M7KkdY6YS7f7tQ8TkSx2XgakU8-adLLXpPsdheI/s1600/Barbara%2527s+house+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="480" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVhl9y_LHYPEkwXv77JmIrIXN9PU0jYmSnCn6zi_QuKYiyVZfrT8HB8yoj_xOeYOugihgxWluYQMuH0fwMeUsLlxRnBlf-ZR7Jyuv5M7KkdY6YS7f7tQ8TkSx2XgakU8-adLLXpPsdheI/s640/Barbara%2527s+house+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pillsbury-Dickinson House, Georgetown, MA, Circa 1700</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
From the 17th century many families from England settled in New England where they established homes and families and put down deep roots. Many of the names of the early settlers still prevail in Rowley and in all of the other towns that originally were part of the vast area referred to as "Ould Rowley". As time went on they built their homesteads. Many family members remained in that part of Ould Rowley that is now Georgetown, Groveland or Byfield. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
An early settler in this region was Rev. Ezekiel Rogers who claimed the land between Newbury and Ipswich. This tract of land extended all the way to Andover and included Bradford. His plantation, as it was called, was established in 1638. Previously Rev. Rogers was pastor of the church at Rowley, Yorkshire, near Hull.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Rogers requested of the General Court a tract of land between Ipswich and Newbury which was granted. The settlement was begun in the spring of 1639. The area was referred to as the "new plantation". The house that is the subject of this story was located in the Byfield Parish of Rowley but as the large tract of land was further subdivided into new towns this house became part of the newer town of Georgetown.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The present owner of the house has owned it for nearly 40 years and throughout this time has carefully preserved the old house. There has been no attempt to make it look brand new, an approach that has cost many old houses its best and original fabric. The Dickinson-Pillsbury house has escaped the "gut jobs" that so many early houses have fallen prey to in recent years. There are no granite counter tops or phony beamed ceilings. The exposed beams are original. Likewise, no brick has been uncovered unless it is original. The owner has studied every aspect of restoration and preservation and has adhered to rules of integrity. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRduUIpY06wU7bZPz-o_I3u5NxlPcay-R7pN72jrUvsroDjYlJuNWlU9bgu44XsX-C392REC4BxUbo6J0I4Jjd_TjRVtdbInLj3c7T-Ak7LTH6aglH3vGaIHX6INa1MIiFAWwKchOCKQo/s1600/18Barbara+P%2527s+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="179" data-original-width="282" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRduUIpY06wU7bZPz-o_I3u5NxlPcay-R7pN72jrUvsroDjYlJuNWlU9bgu44XsX-C392REC4BxUbo6J0I4Jjd_TjRVtdbInLj3c7T-Ak7LTH6aglH3vGaIHX6INa1MIiFAWwKchOCKQo/s400/18Barbara+P%2527s+house.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pillsbury -Dickinson house in horse and buggy days.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Having escaped many of the alterations that have become fads in recent years, this house remains intact and retains as much integrity as humanly possible.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The house, the Dickinson-Pillsbury house, c.1700, is on the National Register of Historic Places and the following taken from their report supports the integrity mentioned above.<br />
<br />
See National Register report below.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<i>The Dickinson-Pillsbury house retains First Period integrity of location, design, workmanship, setting and feeling to a high degree in its surviving frame and simple features and fittings. During restoration, the archaeologist owner did not remove early paint from the plaster walls or ceilings, nor the soot blackening the ceilings over the fireplaces. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHINLWxgUwM3X92afB20_kqkjG8BM1QEsBUKczsvDcn5PhYUoEtl_Mx7Bm-i1qX2qfe6acGYKk9xTOFOIGEtQWeMcX-C_RwQqapqJ3CcwVZ7FZarxYNCM_YVQbkSGJibHyecQUE7S2sBo/s1600/Barbara%2527s+Walkway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHINLWxgUwM3X92afB20_kqkjG8BM1QEsBUKczsvDcn5PhYUoEtl_Mx7Bm-i1qX2qfe6acGYKk9xTOFOIGEtQWeMcX-C_RwQqapqJ3CcwVZ7FZarxYNCM_YVQbkSGJibHyecQUE7S2sBo/s320/Barbara%2527s+Walkway.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The way to the barn</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In addition, the house retains many simple fittings -wooden latches and pegs, hardware, cupboards and a shelf hung from the </i><i>back of the chimney with wooden hangers - which combine with the unaltered finishes to more accurately portray the feeling of a First Period farm building than most of the houses surveyed.</i><i><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_VR4uJjk4vnRDc-R8DuETSRko6PXvTT-ZYFdCi3EKb0tCmOC2EbmI7IsM1jzpYoHAb7DbwRjxXhEo1e4hTMqfS1pWNdVq-NdWjV_gs3mzVKmawAl3Dkgc-jzDkrDXTiS-7AsnGf3knzQ/s1600/Barbara%2527s+house+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="338" data-original-width="600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_VR4uJjk4vnRDc-R8DuETSRko6PXvTT-ZYFdCi3EKb0tCmOC2EbmI7IsM1jzpYoHAb7DbwRjxXhEo1e4hTMqfS1pWNdVq-NdWjV_gs3mzVKmawAl3Dkgc-jzDkrDXTiS-7AsnGf3knzQ/s400/Barbara%2527s+house+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The large cooking fireplace in the original great "hall. 19' x 19'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0hzjhAi4EGX8OwuPC8APJqWiUB5qDCx1GYZO9wacAzQv4zdEnJ1Lu1fU7B_-WC4Yz4KEEjyjV_2Ou__j7le5LMFtG4nypy4Laic9FVZHUEn7la1H0JUzUD0nf7455DeA26GbCuEd4xyc/s1600/Barbara%2527s+house+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0hzjhAi4EGX8OwuPC8APJqWiUB5qDCx1GYZO9wacAzQv4zdEnJ1Lu1fU7B_-WC4Yz4KEEjyjV_2Ou__j7le5LMFtG4nypy4Laic9FVZHUEn7la1H0JUzUD0nf7455DeA26GbCuEd4xyc/s320/Barbara%2527s+house+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front entry with closed staircase.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The very simplicity of the interior is probably representative of the great body of simple First Period farmhouses now lost to us. The analysis of paint and plaster evidence on the walls and ceilings may yield information important to our understanding of this type of building. The unusual piecing of the </i><i>right end girt is also worthy of future study.</i><br />
<i><br /></i><i>The Dickinson-Pillsbury house is a 5 bay wide 2 1/2 story, </i><i>central chimney structure with clapboards on the front and shingles </i><i>on the sides and rear wall. There are hewn overhangs on the front </i><i>and at the left gable end. The house began as a single cell 2 1/2 </i><i>story structure to the right of the chimney bay. , The left-hand rooms </i><i>were added within a generation. The ell projecting from the rear </i><i>right-hand end was attached 1856.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
<i>MAJOR FIRST PERIOD FEATURES</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
<i>This simple farm dwelling has escaped major remodeling over the </i><i>years and retains much of its original First Period construction and </i><i>finish. The growth of the house is visible primarily in the attic. </i><i>Abbott Lowell Cummings has found evidence of brick nogging in the </i><i>walls up to the window sill which confirms accounts in early </i><i>family records.</i><i>The owner found evidence during restoration that the original windows </i><i>were of the type in which sills and headers were let into the studs. </i><br />
<i><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYTblGtYrCWhmWhcGNuRNtvMnwpa9_Sb_pl4fhifjiOsRizMomMny87u71i9tdKPy2nHIdsfb2Y9iL_NkLl7AUUjg8manbmy0weYVXcQIb8JkP9B9fAqHU7yzIqtXuVuZCFOFtk3OWmuE/s1600/Barbara%2527s+house+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1229" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYTblGtYrCWhmWhcGNuRNtvMnwpa9_Sb_pl4fhifjiOsRizMomMny87u71i9tdKPy2nHIdsfb2Y9iL_NkLl7AUUjg8manbmy0weYVXcQIb8JkP9B9fAqHU7yzIqtXuVuZCFOFtk3OWmuE/s640/Barbara%2527s+house+11.jpg" width="490" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The large parlor, the second stage of the house. Ceiling was always exposed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</i><i>The stylistic similarity of the two halves of this clearly two-stage </i><i>house suggests that it was enlarged relatively soon after its initial </i><i>construction. In the right hand room, the substantial hard wood</i><br />
<i>longitudinal summer beam has a flat chamfer with plain, coved </i><i>(semi-lamb's tongue) stop at the outer wall and full lamb's tongue </i><i>stops at the chimney girt. Joists are spaced 20-21 inches on </i><i>centers. The chimney girt is covered with a box which has a crude </i><i>quirked bead along the edge. </i><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbms2ZtpWuNYiMcY3lrXKDNQb36A3EvDUXA3HhNsnZKxfG6AalHjK9NG_JZ3QnsgdkrFmsauotPflwUYKH1JX2xF3OITB-TtWiw8Z20Q7792Lo7EpgvzOxN0kB_78IPzbC6NExBkmni3g/s1600/Dickinson+bedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="418" data-original-width="600" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbms2ZtpWuNYiMcY3lrXKDNQb36A3EvDUXA3HhNsnZKxfG6AalHjK9NG_JZ3QnsgdkrFmsauotPflwUYKH1JX2xF3OITB-TtWiw8Z20Q7792Lo7EpgvzOxN0kB_78IPzbC6NExBkmni3g/s400/Dickinson+bedroom.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The hall chamber</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><br /></i>
<i>The house is important for its association with Paul Pillsbury, who </i><i>purchased the house in 1801-2. Pillsbury was a prolific inventor who </i><i>patented in 1863 a corn sheller which stripped the kernels from ears </i><i>of corn. The principle behind his bark mill is still used in mills </i><i>made today. He also invented the first shoe pegging machine, which </i><i>was used in his house in Georgetown.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
There is more! <br />
<br />
In 1856 a small cape was moved to the lot and attached as an ell at the right hand side of the house up against the oldest end of the dwelling. It is more Greek Revival but offers more rooms and a back staircase to the second floor.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjY3g2KmfccuNE-RpqtMozz7HxAnWYCzMsDsjFjdmfVMTk_1llTDRFvjAKIKnYvCoqGYd9_Aiona1qysbzWX0Fniz7GjcXZwL40RfvYeQN3UgOJbyLEg8R10HvdoRY-mlwT49o_417QAs/s1600/Barbara%2527s+house+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="765" data-original-width="1020" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjY3g2KmfccuNE-RpqtMozz7HxAnWYCzMsDsjFjdmfVMTk_1llTDRFvjAKIKnYvCoqGYd9_Aiona1qysbzWX0Fniz7GjcXZwL40RfvYeQN3UgOJbyLEg8R10HvdoRY-mlwT49o_417QAs/s400/Barbara%2527s+house+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is one of the 1856 rooms in the ell, used <br />
by the present owner as a breakfast room.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-n_IxbUPZ2-EQwKaTjVAMmw5EemRqDPIznlxHBeDvzrP1Cy23fsBG55zi5fLmAYmuFBTuyUsnOMss50RaQgDbybPT3pcRMHgaLur6mD7cUYUjdWIsHTJXZ0GEmMqeYu7sZIFTUHVFUFc/s1600/Barbara%2527s+house+7+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="762" data-original-width="1020" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-n_IxbUPZ2-EQwKaTjVAMmw5EemRqDPIznlxHBeDvzrP1Cy23fsBG55zi5fLmAYmuFBTuyUsnOMss50RaQgDbybPT3pcRMHgaLur6mD7cUYUjdWIsHTJXZ0GEmMqeYu7sZIFTUHVFUFc/s400/Barbara%2527s+house+7+-+Copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is the back entrance through the 1850s part of the house.<br />
With landscaping and stone walkway it is particularly pleasing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The back door of the house enters<br />
into the 1856 section of the that was added.<br />
<br />
<br />
A short distance from the house is a commodious 18th century barn! It could be suitable for horses.<br />
In addition there is a garden shed, perennial gardens.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="599" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstPv2JGzASzO_uqISkrPlS7200Vs3j1a9oFqpeuSsAhs5ixkXAE9eMscnu4FWknLPH3d_q2fJtVPHlctk_Fr3Wb6C7nD52yGU1dyAfo9zjCJ8TboN8a8EFi34OsJvnyWa49BOjDtxbUE/s640/Barbara%2527s+house+8.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garden Shed </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhucUrfd3C218Tp9i-a1llhyJ_Xnh1aOJkYElWwfJ4N74B0KVJfdXWf0eTi0_rzF4awgZKTbhkkBEC7_-MG6iVWKdJYoCJZRBsxKWp_77957EgHIGzFoBKM3qyX45toCkabJ6VfihiDzWU/s1600/Barbara%2527s+house+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: 12.8px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="599" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhucUrfd3C218Tp9i-a1llhyJ_Xnh1aOJkYElWwfJ4N74B0KVJfdXWf0eTi0_rzF4awgZKTbhkkBEC7_-MG6iVWKdJYoCJZRBsxKWp_77957EgHIGzFoBKM3qyX45toCkabJ6VfihiDzWU/s640/Barbara%2527s+house+9.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foxgloves near the barn.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The chain of title to the house is not clear. Paul Pillsbury, the first of the Pillsburys to own the house, was actually a descendant of the Dickinson's so that although there is a different name it is still in the same family.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It has been called the James Dickinson house. James Dickinson died in 1698. Here is the inventory of his estate. It is not clear whether he lived here or whether it was built after his death by his son, James.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVTaPy4rNGDnw9plMhhC77hJJjVTZgYCEsck7ufiT3Kt_qnU0IW5wWxragVqyQsZQadMfpZ0Mk31emjrWiJmTyKl01dqeTNGzbza7LK6ym2xhi7P6KzjRcRoQaakNj-UjhBtbIC-RpO-c/s1600/Will+of+James+Dickinson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1094" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVTaPy4rNGDnw9plMhhC77hJJjVTZgYCEsck7ufiT3Kt_qnU0IW5wWxragVqyQsZQadMfpZ0Mk31emjrWiJmTyKl01dqeTNGzbza7LK6ym2xhi7P6KzjRcRoQaakNj-UjhBtbIC-RpO-c/s640/Will+of+James+Dickinson.jpg" width="436" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
By 1704 the house belonged to Samuel Dickinson, son of James. Perhaps it was Samuel who added the early second stage of the house which is still clearly in the first period with a decorated frame. He also acquired land from his brother, George, and his mother, Rebecca Dickinson Dresser, formerly the wife of James Dickinson, deceased.<br />
<br />
This Samuel had a son, Samuel, Jr. The house descended down through the Dickinson family until Samuel Dickinson's daughter,Sarah, married Parker Pillsbury in 1774. This couple had a son, Paul Pillsbury, a significant inventor. Paul made the old Dickinson-Pillsbury house his home. <br />
<br />
Paul first invented a corn shelling machine and then a bark mill. <br />
<br />
Next he invented a machine for cutting shoe leather and a shoe peg system which revolutionized the shoe industry, so important in Essex County. He was nicknamed "Peg" Pillsbury. Pegged shoes became the standard for shoe construction and Paul Pillsbury made machinery for making the pegs which he sold throughout the area, the center of the early shoe industry.<br />
<br />
Now the long-time owner of the Dickinson Pillsbury house has relocated to a smaller in-town house and the old Dickinson house is on the market for the first time in forty years. It is a rare house and a rare opportunity for the purist to discover the practically untouched house of their dreams.<br />
<br />
Although very authentic the house has all the conveniences of a new house. It has a real kitchen, 2.5 bathrooms, and 21st century comforts. Sitting high on a knoll, it is further protected by almost nine surrounding acres.<br />
<br />
The Dickinson-Pillsbury house just might be the authentic first period house you waited years to find. If you would like to know more about this property please leave a comment for me and I will put you in touch with the owner.<br />
<br />
And, by the way, the asking price is $649,900, not bad for a large antique house, acreage and antique barn!<br />
<br />
It's waiting for you and ready for occupancy.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
This house has had two price reductions and is now $549,900. 9/28/2017<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYB02EHh0r6vVc7ST4bYbv6ptCQ6lr7soZEe1aLICThyphenhyphen-7bpJmlI9sJXuqHMpYArKL068F_glkq1-e4J0iNQdp9bs7MGSwfmKO88gbukABASQyKkOIdGEcXSl1pxRlqKNg_usP7IsrmNE/s1600/Dickinson+Pillsbury+witham+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYB02EHh0r6vVc7ST4bYbv6ptCQ6lr7soZEe1aLICThyphenhyphen-7bpJmlI9sJXuqHMpYArKL068F_glkq1-e4J0iNQdp9bs7MGSwfmKO88gbukABASQyKkOIdGEcXSl1pxRlqKNg_usP7IsrmNE/s640/Dickinson+Pillsbury+witham+house.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An historic door yard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-68425286399253133462017-06-26T03:28:00.000-07:002017-07-17T14:07:05.114-07:00TRAINS, BUSES AND SUMMER ON CAPE ANN<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
MY HOUSE IN A SEASIDE VILLAGE</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My blog has centered around antique houses of Gloucester, Massachusetts and some beyond recalling stories of other old towns in Essex County.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In the many months during which I have neglected my blog I did submit some stories to a local blog site called "Enduring Gloucester".</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Here is one of my submissions from a year ago as I reminisce about coming to my house in the 1940s as a little girl for my summer vacation not knowing that I would ever own it or live here year 'round. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This house is now one hundred and fifty four years old. I never thought of it as being antique because it didn't have a big timber frame and it didn't have fireplaces for heating and cooking so in my opinion it wasn't much of an antique. Now I think perhaps I should rethink my definition of antique house. It is an old house!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My introduction to this house was happenstance. My mother was concerned about my summer cold that would not go away. I was a preschooler when she took me to a doctor whose diagnosis and remedy was this; "She has hay fever. Send her to the seashore."</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So that is how I was suddenly shipped off to spend time with my mother's friend in the seaside village of Lanesville, part of the City of Gloucester. And that was the pattern every year from then on. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Now the house is mine and coming here to cure hay fever, the best thing that ever happened to me. No one ever mentioned that the ragweed to which I was allergic likewise grows here in abundance! That little detail was never mentioned and never reared its head to spoil my summers in Lanesville.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Here are my recollections of those long ago summers at the sea shore posted here on June 26, 2017 after having first been posted on ENDURING GLOUCESTER, June 29, 2016 just about a year ago.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h1 class="entry-title" style="border: 0px; clear: both; color: #666666; font-family: "Droid Serif", Georgia, serif; font-size: 1.6153rem; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.4; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
TRAINS, BUSES AND SUMMER ON CAPE ANN</h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="wp-caption aligncenter" data-shortcode="caption" id="attachment_2380" style="background-color: white; border: 1px solid rgb(238, 238, 238); clear: both; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px auto 1.5em; max-width: 100%; outline: 0px; padding: 8px 0px 10px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 562px;">
<img alt="Children on the Beach. Edward Henry Potthast (1857-1927)" class="size-full wp-image-2380" src="https://enduringgloucesterdotcom1.files.wordpress.com/2016/06/children-on-the-beach-edward-henry-potthast-1857-1927.jpg?w=665" style="display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 98%;" /><br />
<div class="wp-caption-text" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 0.923rem; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-top: 10px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
Children on the Beach. Edward Henry Potthast (1857-1927)</div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
The Boston and Maine trains played an integral role in my summer vacations in Gloucester. Trains seem to have played a memorable role in the lives of many of my generation.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<img alt="1Pru - Train Depot" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2372" src="https://enduringgloucesterdotcom1.files.wordpress.com/2016/06/1pru-train-depot.jpg?w=665" style="clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%;" /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Each summer my mother and I would take the train from my small hometown in central Massachusetts to rendezvous in Boston at North Station with “Auntie” with whom I would spend my long awaited summer vacation days in Lanesville and Folly Cove.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
While in Boston we shopped at Jordan Marsh and Filene’s for a new bathing suit for me and a new dress and shoes for the first day of school in September. Then if I was lucky enough we might visit Jack’s Joke Shop before riding the subway back to North Station and the Rockport line at Track 2. There I would say good-by to Mother and board the train to Gloucester with Auntie. In the early years engines were formidable, behemoth locomotives belching clouds of black smoke, later replaced by streamlined diesels.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<img alt="2Pru - Train" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2371" src="https://enduringgloucesterdotcom1.files.wordpress.com/2016/06/2pru-train.jpg?w=665" style="clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%;" /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
My happy anticipation grew as we left the cities of Boston and Lynn behind and approached the Salem station. At that point in our journey the lights were turned on in the passenger cars. I knew what that meant. We were about to enter the tunnel. How exciting that was to a four or five year old!</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
That event was followed by a sharp change in scenery. After leaving the Beverly station there were glimpses of big houses, and blue ocean water. And what was that funny sounding station…Montserrat? That stop was followed by Beverly Farms and Pride’s Crossing; then Manchester with sail boats in the harbor.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
After passing the Lily Pond and the West Gloucester station, none too soon for me, the conductor would call out, “Gloucester, Gloucester.”</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
As we alighted from the train the familiar sights, sounds and smells left no doubt that we were really in Gloucester. Auntie and I then proceeded out to Washington Street to wait for the bus with me sitting on my suitcase in front of the Depot Café to wait for those big orange buses of the Gloucester Autobus Co. We must watch for the bus that said “Lanesville, Folly Cove.” That was very important. <img alt="3Pru - Orange bus" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2373" src="https://enduringgloucesterdotcom1.files.wordpress.com/2016/06/3pru-orange-bus.jpg?w=665" style="clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%;" />Heaven forbid that we get on the wrong bus!</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
While impatiently waiting on the sidewalk I stared at the big house on the corner of Commonwealth Avenue and thought it was quite wonderful. It was almost new then. It is still wonderful but, like me, showing its age.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
The landscape soon became more and more familiar. As the bus made its way along Washington Street, Auntie, always a teacher, pointed out the old Ellery house and, on the opposite side of the road, the big yellow Babson house. The construction of the rotary, Route 128 and the A. Piatt Andrew Bridge were still a distant idea. Little did I know that these historical landmarks pointed out to me as a child would be so important to me as an avid preservationist many decades later.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Way down the road we traveled under the Riverdale Willows, saw the abandoned Hodgkins Tide Mill and crossed the causeway to Annisquam. After a few more miles we passed the Consolidated Lobster Company at Hodgkins Cove. I was told with a slight tone of disapproval that their lobsters came from Nova Scotia and not as good as our Ipswich Bay lobsters. Our lobsters would come from George Morey at Lanes Cove.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Shortly thereafter we went down one last hill and there was Plum Cove and the sandy beach! Oh happy day! We’re almost there.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
After stops in Lanesville the big orange bus traveled down Langsford Street until it approached Butman Avenue and Ranta’s Market. It was extremely important to pull the overhead cord at just the right moment to tell the driver we wanted to get off, not too soon and not too late.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
From there it was a short walk with Auntie dragging my suitcase (without wheels of course) up Butman Avenue to Washington Street after which it was downhill to Auntie’s house. The magic of my summer vacations was about to begin.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Every day was filled with fun at Plum Cove or Folly Cove. Cloudy days were fun, too, with hikes through the woods on the Rockport Path to the Paper House in Pigeon Cove, picking blueberries, walking to Dogtown or a bus trip to Rocky Neck. On Rocky Neck there was a wonderful shop that I loved called the La Petite Gallery. Other trips to Bearskin Neck or shopping in downtown Gloucester filled the long summer days. One trip to downtown each summer always included a stop at Gloucester’s vast City Hall so Auntie could pay her taxes.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
It was with great sadness that at the end of August the trip by bus and train was reversed. I huddled by the window hiding my face so no one would see my tears. Next summer was such a long way off.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Every detail is forever burned in my brain. Little did I know that Gloucester would become my permanent residence and that I would be living in Auntie’s house or that my children and grandchildren would also know the magic of summer in Lanesville.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Little did I know that in the warmer months I would be standing in the now so- called 1710 White-Ellery house, no longer across the road from the old yellow Babson house. The ancient house is now located behind the Babson house and here is where once a month in the summer I tell visitors about the construction of the house and explain to them how it was moved across the road in 1947 to save it from demolition as Route 128 became a reality..</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
And that is where I was on the first Saturday in June as another summer on Cape Ann begins. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
(And that is where I will on the first Saturday of every month through October meeting and greeting people who have an interest in a three hundred year old house.)</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Thanks for reading!</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Pru</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #404040; font-family: "Droid Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-75876422840634466432017-06-20T10:43:00.000-07:002017-08-21T17:03:50.771-07:00ABBOTT LOWELL CUMMINGS, MENTOR TO MANY<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="320" src="https://www.antiquesandthearts.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/abott_l_fotor.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="247" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Abbott Lowell Cummings</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
Students of New England architecture, preservationist and lovers of early Massachusetts houses were saddened recently to learn of the death of Abbott Lowell Cummings, a man who had a great influence on so many people especially in my circle of preservationist friends.</div>
<br />
After relocating in Newburyport, MA in 1971 just as urban renewal was getting off the ground, we soon found ourselves in close contact with others, like us, who had been drawn to Newburyport for its collection of decaying 18th and 19th century houses that had been languishing for years, shabby, run down but with mouth watering features and historic integrity just waiting to be rescued.<br />
<br />
From time to time I would hear someone say something about someone I didn't know. " Abbott says....." was heard from time to time. Who was Abbott?<br />
<br />
I soon found out that Abbott Cummings was the undisputed expert on early houses and also Federal period houses inspired by Asher Benjamin of which Newburyport had many.<br />
<br />
In 1979 he published his great book, "Framed Houses of Massachusetts Bay", the bible for early houses then and still the best reference book out there. An amazing book!<br />
<br />
As time went on and I knew he would be speaking somewhere, I attended. One memorable talk was one that he gave in the late 1980s at the New England Historical and Genealogical Society in Boston (NEHGS) at one of their "Come Home to New England" summer programs. The subject was "The Homes of Our Ancestors". Tapes of his talk were sold and I played mine over and over in the car soaking up what he had said as I drove around.<br />
<br />
Another memorable event was when my son, Bob, and I took a tour with Abbott through the Gedney house in Salem; an early, mostly shell of a 17th century house of four rooms. The tour took hours! I left the house with my brain on overload, dizzy from what I had absorbed or tried to absorb. How could there be so much to learn in an empty house? <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://scontent.fbed1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-1/c26.0.320.320/p320x320/10339661_563150767139643_4893763631807465434_n.jpg?oh=76ba94002cb00b399acae3c5187ef2f3&oe=59D7CDAD" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gedney House, c 1665</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/01/c7/8c/1e/view-into-the-attic-of.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interior of the Gedney House, Salem, Ma</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It was there that I first heard Abbott talk about dendrochronology as he pointed out the tree rings in a girt above a doorway. That was long before dendro became available in New England.<br />
<br />
In 2007 I was to be involved in a rare opening of the 1710 White-Ellery house in Gloucester. It is open on a regular basis these days but prior to this event had been closed up for many years. I wrote to Abbott and asked him if he would come and perhaps say a few words about the house. Much to my joy he accepted the invitation.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="White Ellery new claps and cornice.JPG" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0b/White_Ellery_new_claps_and_cornice.JPG/250px-White_Ellery_new_claps_and_cornice.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White-Ellery House, Gloucester, MA 1710</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
He had previously been in the house in the 1950s with Alfred Mansfield Brooks, president of the Cape Ann Historical Association. Not only did he come but he had the notes that he had originally taken when viewing the house nearly fifty years before. He spoke in front of a large crowd, too many to fit in the house, the rest of us listening through the open windows.<br />
<br />
I was fortunate to visit him several times after he retired to Deerfield and discuss features that had left me puzzled. Those visits were truly memorable events.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpP9Pw0IWitVrxjZjs4rdgH60qjbANPRcKCZ2iYaTRwMl61n0fBv46xk-uKF4uloBUQmSTFsa_T5V7xDZ7BCSBF7AI_PlzpnnlyaDi4LGLDTDBE9LuvecjLZ6wqqrJ8yNUGIL281EJ_C0/s1600/lunch+with+Abbott+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="712" data-original-width="840" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpP9Pw0IWitVrxjZjs4rdgH60qjbANPRcKCZ2iYaTRwMl61n0fBv46xk-uKF4uloBUQmSTFsa_T5V7xDZ7BCSBF7AI_PlzpnnlyaDi4LGLDTDBE9LuvecjLZ6wqqrJ8yNUGIL281EJ_C0/s320/lunch+with+Abbott+004.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch with Abbott Cummings in Deerfield, MA</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />In 1979 I bought "Framed Houses" and used it until it was shabby and falling apart but thanks to eBay I found another first edition online. Just as I had done with the first one I asked Abbott to sign it. When he did he commented that I was the first to have worn on my original book and replaced it for him to sign again just as he had with the first one probably 30 years before.<br />
<br />
He was 94 years old when he died and left legions of followers who relied on him as the ultimate authority.<br />
<br />
The following is an obituary written by he long-time associate, Richard Candee. It is perhaps the longest obituary I have ever read but there is no way to abbreviate his work and tribute to his life.<br />
<br />
Here is the link which is probably more efficient than copying the long obituary but I hope you will read it and appreciate the legacy of this man so important to those of us who love old houses. It was written by his long time associate, Richard Candee.<br />
<br />
https://www.antiquesandthearts.com/abbott-lowell-cummings-94/<br />
<br />
Abbott Cumming's scholarship and influence will always be remembered by those who knew and respected him...and there are many.<br />
<br />
Pru<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmZkeifeXZTywOLM6Xlbm3dkrKdiM1aJhe6wn1Vmr5qwbWPQQ-vsiJhrHpWSrpeYo8w-D9h5CUy_kzoTzP9rhjep2Czd8xWTkzfr_bu-kzq-ht-_Jlx6CzW17c6sQ7Ybetarh9T0NHpw/s1600/Abbott+Cummings+and+Harold+Bell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1110" data-original-width="1600" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmZkeifeXZTywOLM6Xlbm3dkrKdiM1aJhe6wn1Vmr5qwbWPQQ-vsiJhrHpWSrpeYo8w-D9h5CUy_kzoTzP9rhjep2Czd8xWTkzfr_bu-kzq-ht-_Jlx6CzW17c6sQ7Ybetarh9T0NHpw/s320/Abbott+Cummings+and+Harold+Bell.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three old timers. Abbott Cummings, Elizabeth Hough, benefactor of the<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Sargent House Museum in Gloucester and Harold Bell, then president </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">of </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">the Cape Ann </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Historical Association, now Cape Ann Museum. All</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">three made contributions </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">to preservation and all now passed on. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Pru Fish Photo 1990s</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-44620571709204934892017-06-20T09:07:00.000-07:002017-06-20T09:07:11.335-07:00TEAR IT DOWN OR SAVE IT - A TALE OF TWO CITIES<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
In late 2015 the City of Gloucester was threatened with the loss of several houses. In the end one was saved, one was demolished and one was gutted to the studs and turned into condos. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Gloucester is America's oldest seaport; a small city founded in 1623 where preservation should be paramount. Peabody, a short distance away, is a tired industrial city with less to preserve. A significant building, one that was familiar to me, in Peabody was also threatened with demolition.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The following story is taken from a piece I wrote at that time and submitted to Enduring Gloucester, a local blog, (enduringgloucester.com) some of which I will repeat here along with a follow-up. The date was October 13, 2015.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKj-pSARYfA9qyD7GaUp_jH-bFCqZi7n3IO39jkC0LTu1Rykp_zBH5T52-1tjt1sMZ-D5OMPDG7Ch_AX7kMfAi8sR4WvE8aUHQdLPzMZVuckDyBhvaXs_RDmPqdstig2KHXIG9Odp8_iU/s1600/Betterncourt+Furniture%252C+2+Washington+St.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="550" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKj-pSARYfA9qyD7GaUp_jH-bFCqZi7n3IO39jkC0LTu1Rykp_zBH5T52-1tjt1sMZ-D5OMPDG7Ch_AX7kMfAi8sR4WvE8aUHQdLPzMZVuckDyBhvaXs_RDmPqdstig2KHXIG9Odp8_iU/s320/Betterncourt+Furniture%252C+2+Washington+St.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
LEADING BY EXAMPLE</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We accept the fact that Gloucester is America's oldest seaport but it is easy to take this distinction for granted. In addition Gloucester has a rich history in the art world. The list of painters who came to Gloucester, drawn by the scenery and the special light, is a who's who in art. Throw in the history of the granite industry, the uniquely ethnic neighborhoods and last but not least, the architecture.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Switching gears, let's talk about the City of Peabody. Peabody? Of all the towns and cities on the North Shore what's so historic about Peabody?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The City of Peabody was separated from Danvers and was the scene of leather workers and tanneries. The tanneries are mostly gone and although that city is proud of its history few would compare it to Gloucester on any level. It is a city of malls, old factories, busy highways and a central square that is sometimes under water. Above all it doesn't have a harbor and any comparison to Gloucester, Le Beauport, would seem to be ludicrous.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Although Peabody doesn't have much going for it compared to Gloucester, in one respect it has Gloucester beat hands down. Here's why.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In the late 1890s J. B. Thomas built a house for his grandson. He spared nothing to create a beautiful house smack dab in the middle of the city on the corner of Main Street and Washington Street. It also had fabulous carriage house in the rear not to mention an enormous and beautiful old beech tree in the front.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The Thomas family lived in the house for 15 or 20 years before selling it to the O'Sheas. It then became known as the O'Shea house until sold around 1970 and converted into a furniture store. After the furniture store owners retired the house was sold to a social agency.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In recent years the house has fallen on hard times and was foreclosed. Bank owned, it was available for sale.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL79udCV5X5Gxe0KxTITvZPlcBKkh-96A9oRHL-X5hsgWT3qW4pzHgUdInak1rinIXfw0D1keSv66MPcDSq7tN5d5U77cQZFJIiEfo5yHM5DVWczU6XECq_oTBuaxB-PMm_r3kj0YKEGk/s1600/Bettencourt+furniture+front+door.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="306" data-original-width="463" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL79udCV5X5Gxe0KxTITvZPlcBKkh-96A9oRHL-X5hsgWT3qW4pzHgUdInak1rinIXfw0D1keSv66MPcDSq7tN5d5U77cQZFJIiEfo5yHM5DVWczU6XECq_oTBuaxB-PMm_r3kj0YKEGk/s320/Bettencourt+furniture+front+door.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In a scenario that is far too familiar, a developer from our own City of Gloucester eyed this high visibility site for redevelopment and negotiated to purchase it. He made it known that his intent was to demolish the old house. He was so taken with the site he had not, according to reports, even looked at its wonderful interior. This is when the story takes a remarkable turn.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Unlike Gloucester, this community, Peabody, has a demolition delay ordinance and has had one since 1986, more than thirty years ago. It was invoked in an attempt to save the O'Shea house. But when the City realized that the delay was not long enough to be effective the city council boldly extended the ordinance from 90 days to one year, 365 days, to buy more time, a lease on life for the old house in question.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The trend is for longer delay periods as towns where demolition delay has been tested understand that in order to be effective, longer delays must be enacted and are addressing this finding. Meanwhile, remember, Gloucester doesn't even have a demolition delay ordinance, still rolling out the red carpet for developers who care little for the historical value of the properties they would demolish. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
(Newburyport, a most beautiful nearby city, has found out the hard way that developers gutting their beautiful Federal period mansions for condo conversion leaving them a pretty shell with all of the original interior fabric, destroyed or scrapped. They are just now recognizing and assessing their loss.)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Determined not to lose this historic house, the City of Peabody, led by the mayor and supported by the Peabody City Council, made a second bold move. They announced they would take the house by eminent domain! The house will be saved and it will be interesting to see what happens next. The City can potentially recover their fair market value purchase price and will have the option to sell it with preservation covenants or easements to protect it into the future. This is what anyone caring about the house hopes will happen.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Perhaps eminent domain is a tool that Gloucester should invoke from time to time when a historic building is in jeopardy. How is it that Peabody can take such a decisive seep while Gloucester languishes totally vulnerable with no demolition delay and only a tiny historic district?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Who would think that Peabody would have the foresight and courage to act so decisively? Why is Gloucester so indifferent?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Is it because Peabody has so much less to save that they are galvanized into making such a bold move?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Regardless of what motivated them, I say, "Kudos to Peabody" May they lead by example!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
June 20, 2017</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I wrote the above story on October 13, 2015. Having heard no more about the O;Shea house I moved on and did not follow up. This morning's paper and the following article jolted me into the realization that I had taken for granted that the house was safe.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The developer, Michael Corsetti, who happens to come from Gloucester, is suing the City of Peabody saying that his civil rights were violated when the City took the property.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here is an unbelievably exquisite property now in the hands of a developer who is is determined to win this battle with the City of Peabody although he has no credentials and no background in preservation. He is typical of the developers such as those that have attacked the City of Newburyport to convert historic properties into money makers for themselves and then move on. When preservation easements are ignored they offer the community a sum of money to compensate the community in lieu of having respected the history, architecture or even the covenants on the property. This trick has worked in some instances.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It is a sad state of affairs and I hope Peabody keeps fighting this callous developer tooth and nail.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For more details here is a link to the updated newspaper story published today, June 20, 2017.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
http://gloucestertimes.cnhi.newsmemory.com/?token=3e8542161188ba0c2040ab51244b7882_59492045_8e6a&selDate=20170620&goTo=01&artid=art_0.xml</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also, related to this sad story is the piece I wrote in this blog called "Why Are You Gutting This House" October 13, 2016, exactly one year after the O'Shea house story. This piece addressed what was happening in Newburyport, a city that has a lot to lose.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Each community has its sob story recounting the loss of special properties. It is not an easy problem to solve but demolition delay and preservation easements can help. These historic towns and cities need to employ all the tools available to slow down the destruction of antique and significant properties.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Good luck to Peabody!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-43691401501705377702017-03-12T09:36:00.001-07:002017-07-26T08:01:15.376-07:00THE REMARKABLE 1764 SAUNDERS MANSION<div style="text-align: center;">
WHERE HAVE I BEEN?</div>
<br />
It has been some time since I have posted. I had several posts prepared and just about ready to go when my attention was diverted to what I perceived as an emergency here in Gloucester. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvIm2hf0eVoRHkXj2Lxhni3-uQY3vxGd1VgUPaL0gVCJ4iFI6HcCC0jr_y8XPBKcQAlEdJhddaKeIPbDqwm5Wj_DRr1Kk6xpSKbsIoCWjzVTGEiDBVHJo_d4YJmLm7az5BRhoKalN7-i8/s1600/Middle+st.+3+Dexter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvIm2hf0eVoRHkXj2Lxhni3-uQY3vxGd1VgUPaL0gVCJ4iFI6HcCC0jr_y8XPBKcQAlEdJhddaKeIPbDqwm5Wj_DRr1Kk6xpSKbsIoCWjzVTGEiDBVHJo_d4YJmLm7az5BRhoKalN7-i8/s400/Middle+st.+3+Dexter.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1764 Saunders Mansion. Became the Sawyer<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Free Library in 1884,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> a gift from Samuel Sawyer who deeded it to the trustees of the library</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">The deed stipulated that it would remain a library in sacred trust and </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">in perpetuity 1956 Dexter photo courtesy of CAM</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Ten years ago the Sawyer Free Library in Gloucester was seeking a grant to enlarge the library. The library, a very busy library with high traffic, consists of a Georgian house built in 1764 to which was added a stacks section in 1913. Finally in 1976 a large low key contemporary building was added which has become the main functioning part of this sprawling complex. This 1976 addition was designed by a local architect, Donald Monell. It was particularly pleasing and appropriate for the setting, the entire complex having high visibility and blending with City Hall and the Cape Ann Museum, the latter designed by the same architect.<br />
<br />
The library was awarded the grant but then was unable to get the override from the City that was needed to proceed so the plans were shelved.<br />
<br />
Ten years passed until this year when the library was once again eligible to apply for a 40% grant. The opportunity only comes around every ten years. An architectural firm looked over the job and advised the library board and building committee to bypass the 1764 house, physically cutting it off. Then they then advised that it was best to demolish the 1913 addition and to also to demolish the handsome 1976, forty year old main section designed by Donald Monell and start all over again.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihwzYcE9WYj8diZujS21BuYaW0eW9DG9XNNHT7smhs9uBduIo8lwYFTW1JS-wKdEJvrCXw-hujEh-qXjnMsomu2diTw0VT5QfSDkdAGcnnecBXbB7u-2CAWGUX8e7usewOq7k1TlA8_II/s1600/Sawyer+Library.jpg.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihwzYcE9WYj8diZujS21BuYaW0eW9DG9XNNHT7smhs9uBduIo8lwYFTW1JS-wKdEJvrCXw-hujEh-qXjnMsomu2diTw0VT5QfSDkdAGcnnecBXbB7u-2CAWGUX8e7usewOq7k1TlA8_II/s640/Sawyer+Library.jpg.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the left is the old Thomas Saunders House, 1764. A 1913 connecting link is next followed by the 1976 addition<br />
designed by architect, Donald Monell. The hipped roof reflects the hipped roof of the old house. The arched windows reflect the arched windows in nearby City Hall. P. Fish photo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A short distance away is the Cape Ann Museum also designed by Donald Monell and also attached to an old house, the Elias Davis house. The library and the museum perform as bookends flanking Gloucester City Hall.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCSg5IBAvN5QmM1eJ5MjPMghn8nDR1dF8HV2MgNz7cVIKgz7nz3TK3hRZBUr3ejDL75502lD61BNmCf5Db7WiAJXJTaZbUIt_wyaCpLFHGqRsaWhvUql9d0-YkcVvJ5r2tZe4Xq5o4Sc/s1600/Cape+Ann+Museum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCSg5IBAvN5QmM1eJ5MjPMghn8nDR1dF8HV2MgNz7cVIKgz7nz3TK3hRZBUr3ejDL75502lD61BNmCf5Db7WiAJXJTaZbUIt_wyaCpLFHGqRsaWhvUql9d0-YkcVvJ5r2tZe4Xq5o4Sc/s640/Cape+Ann+Museum.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cape Ann Museum attached to the Elias Davis house with a contemporary<br />
addition. The museum and the library face each other and were designed to<br />
work well together as they flank the centerpiece of the Civic Center, Gloucester<br />
City Hall CAM Photo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I recoiled at the threat to the library, rolled up my sleeves and jumped in to do what I could to save the library and protect the house. My first step after a scathing letter to the editor was to write a history of the old house which was published in a local blog called Enduring Gloucester. (enduringgloucester.com) This was followed by a history of the entire block in which the library is located. <br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/goog_757839733"><br /></a>
<a href="http://www.sawyerfreelibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/GDT-letter-12-22-2016.pdf">http://www.sawyerfreelibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/GDT-letter-12-22-2016.pdf</a><br />
<br />
Rather than reconstruct these two stories I am going to give you the links and urge you to read both pieces. The story of the house called the Saunders house will not disappoint you. It's history is right up there with the most interesting and most read stories I have previously published.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://enduringgloucester.com/2017/01/04/the-saunders-house-1764"> https://enduringgloucester.com/2017/01/04/the-saunders-house-1764</a><br />
<br />
Then please read the follow-up.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://enduringgloucester.com/2017/02/15/a-neighborhood-wiped-ou">https://enduringgloucester.com/2017/02/15/a-neighborhood-wiped-ou</a>t/<br />
<br />
I am happy to report there have been successes. After many meetings, publishing later discoveries on Facebook and joining a group of like minds there has been a positive outcome. At this point demolition is off the table. Architects are working on an alternate design that involves retrofitting the present library with the possibility of adding onto the back for more space. <br />
<br />
The old house has been decommissioned for library use because of lead paint and shaky handicapped accessibility. The idea now is to form a non-profit for the old house. The Historical Commssion has pledged to help find preservation or restoration money to appropriately restore the most remarkable rooms in the high styled Georgian mansion. The goal is to be able to eventually rejoin the Saunders house when it is free of lead and fully handicapped accessible.<br />
<br />
Our fingers and toes are crossed for a favorable outcome. There is every reason to believe that in the end Gloucester will have a beautiful library with a fabulous antique house combined with a state of the art 21st century library with all the bells and whistles and all within the shell of the 1976 Monell section which is so much loved by the community.<br />
<br />
And now I can step back and complete the new stories that were about ready to go when I was so distracted that I could only think of one thing: saving the library!<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading and know that with valid arguments and by speaking out, it IS possible to make a difference. You can fight City Hall! (or the library)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzfB_gNQdCMzuXbrqdgUfFI_BK7jLYl4kl-n477KHMdZqq2NMo7mvtW4m4K03gR4uh5js5W_Q3Of_gD11i-tTJuD3XMJvbnIaeHDhE1WGnMUFy_ug2qkfHP1dkVrpecjcMjc8TIyQ7h0/s1600/Gloucester+City+Hall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzfB_gNQdCMzuXbrqdgUfFI_BK7jLYl4kl-n477KHMdZqq2NMo7mvtW4m4K03gR4uh5js5W_Q3Of_gD11i-tTJuD3XMJvbnIaeHDhE1WGnMUFy_ug2qkfHP1dkVrpecjcMjc8TIyQ7h0/s640/Gloucester+City+Hall.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gloucester City Hall. <br />
Off to the left is the library and off to the right is<br />
Cape Ann Museum. Gloucester has a very handsome Civic Center. Removing<br />
the library and replacing it with s very contemporary building would interrupt<br />
the rhythm of these lovely compatible buildings and the streetsacpe. Web photo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
FOOTNOTE<br />
<br />
Last evening I spoke to the contractor who had done work on the Saunders house in the past and he told me something interesting that he had discovered.<br />
<br />
When Capt. Beach built the observatory in 1802 the roofing material that had leaked so badly was comprised of white canvas covered with a mixture of tar and sea shells instead of tar and gravel. Perhaps it's no wonder that it leaked but considering this is a seaport I found that information interesting. <br />
<br />
The contractor had discovered this evidence while working on the gutters.<br />
<br />prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-11312248710021514502017-01-07T09:38:00.000-08:002018-04-11T17:45:40.566-07:00STILL HATING FIG NEWTONS, STILL LOVING OLD HOUSES AND CHIPPENDALE FURNITURE<div style="text-align: center;">
FIG NEWTONS: YUK</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In the 1940s an older couple moved into the house next door to ours. I liked this husband and wife, the Norwoods, and even as a child was impressed by some of their furnishings and decorating.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For example, in their kitchen was a table surrounded by a set of four Mexican hand painted chairs with rush seats. They were in vivid blue, cheerful and quaint adding a warm friendly touch to the kitchen. I had never seen anything like those pretty chairs and thought they were wonderful.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrZNcJ1q1VJfec-aIr_bQA4-xeCYdgtkrVBx2rH-cG4WyKsXbFgC_EFnIIxnA_j6WBg2IDShWy935TqhxVOdxSevmE6chHr5eUEK_6ZTCEU3e8SLK88g8l2o_wKbvJh09SgjVwa1a1ZLQ/s1600/Mexican+chairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrZNcJ1q1VJfec-aIr_bQA4-xeCYdgtkrVBx2rH-cG4WyKsXbFgC_EFnIIxnA_j6WBg2IDShWy935TqhxVOdxSevmE6chHr5eUEK_6ZTCEU3e8SLK88g8l2o_wKbvJh09SgjVwa1a1ZLQ/s400/Mexican+chairs.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mexican chairs brightly hand painted with rush seats. The Norwoods,<br />
our new neighbors, had a set like these in their kitchen. They were bright blue.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
The set of dishes used in this charming kitchen were French Quimper ware. I adored these colorful peasant looking dishes with the quaint painted chairs. Most children wouldn't even notice someone's kitchen chairs or the neighbor's kitchen dishes but I did! And I wished we had some just like them. (either that or a chrome dinette set)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJI5gAjVMaLHGht3kmhzvxg4WxnYVlaysY60556loFVmFqWK7hVQe6Hf1kFSXQ-_xqVhNoYUb43KvNRv2BgfEX0XMUYSGnYhZi2Juvq1147QXAEy7xNIIW3_tEuOJsM1LD5hLKvpJHzY/s1600/Quimper+plate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJI5gAjVMaLHGht3kmhzvxg4WxnYVlaysY60556loFVmFqWK7hVQe6Hf1kFSXQ-_xqVhNoYUb43KvNRv2BgfEX0XMUYSGnYhZi2Juvq1147QXAEy7xNIIW3_tEuOJsM1LD5hLKvpJHzY/s320/Quimper+plate.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In the Norwood's dining room was a Chippendale lowboy with ball and claw feet. It was clearly vintage, but barely, and certainly not antique but I had never seen one before and I knew I wanted a lowboy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
In the living room was a so-called Governor Winthrop secretary bookcase. These were very popular and common but I hadn't seen one before. Like so many others those days, my mother had a Governor Winthrop desk purchased at Jordan Marsh Co. in Boston for $100 but it didn't have the glass doors and bookcase on top. So I added that to my list of favorite things, a must have for a beautiful home. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
During these years my best friend was Susan. (I hope you're reading, Sue) Her grandparents lived way out in the country at the top of a steep hill called Norcross Hill with sweeping views of the town and with Mt. Monadnock and Mt. Wachusett off in the distance. On summer days Susan and I would walk up there to visit. It was quite a long walk and toward the end we were climbing the terribly steep hill. On the side of the road was a stone watering through put there years before in the days of the horse and buggy for the horses to drink as they struggled up the hill with their wagon loads or buggies. There was also a brook that went under the road.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But back to the Norwood's. After several years as our neighbors they bought an antique house with fields around it. It was on the hill near Susan's grandparent's house and we would pass it just before we reached our destination at Susan's grandparent's big antique house in this old rural neighborhood.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One day on the way home we stopped at the Norwood's and Mrs. Norwood gave us a package of fig newtons to eat on our long walk home. I detested them and I believe Susan did too because my memory tells me that when we got to the brook we threw them in. I have never tasted another fig newton from that day to today.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Before too many years Mrs. Norwood passed away. Mr. Norwood was selling their things. My mother inquired about the Quimper dishes. My recollection is that they were $75 which my mother thought was too much for those post war days. So she passed on them and I don't know what happened to them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While I was away on summer vacation there was an auction. When I got home a neighbor told me that Mrs. Norwood's things had been sold at the auction. What happened to the furniture? The neighbor told me that the nearby antiques shop owner, Dave of Dave's Used Furniture, had been the successful bidder for the lowboy and the secretary.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6yZxOUaPj8fJmBRbWVkBSDSptrkXbjgHJiDGaO6oOp-jZM5_FXQH0xVp9mVrtaz4qk7JNUgrR4scTJLXhMBhd_smivn3E6JPICRcbgh7ySnBaMUaGWBBSnp85Awf_i0iy3htO-M_XdgM/s1600/secretary+bookcases+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6yZxOUaPj8fJmBRbWVkBSDSptrkXbjgHJiDGaO6oOp-jZM5_FXQH0xVp9mVrtaz4qk7JNUgrR4scTJLXhMBhd_smivn3E6JPICRcbgh7ySnBaMUaGWBBSnp85Awf_i0iy3htO-M_XdgM/s400/secretary+bookcases+2.jpg" width="387" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is an almost identical secretary bookcase to the<br />
one that so impressed me in my youth.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Over we went to this shop and there were the coveted pieces. My recollection is that the lowboy was $27.00. How could I ever get enough money to buy it? I didn't have any money. But wait. How about that $25.00 war bond for which I had bought stamps every week at school. Mother let me cash it in for the lowboy. Perhaps I had the necessary $2.00 to complete the sale or maybe my mother kicked in the $2.00. The lowboy was mine! My first piece of furniture in a long life of collecting and buying furniture.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2jo3e7O3L4f20TaQp1VvbYQQLSmZe5Qw64B-RhGvRBr77JNn6jXs09ySnFXOcgN5JWYnJ7iMihnwML89DrziJc_g_E_PcUuLzO6rs2Qkmoc39WUdz35lJN6-JRXi1WCF9cuNbJVa2NrA/s1600/lowboy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2jo3e7O3L4f20TaQp1VvbYQQLSmZe5Qw64B-RhGvRBr77JNn6jXs09ySnFXOcgN5JWYnJ7iMihnwML89DrziJc_g_E_PcUuLzO6rs2Qkmoc39WUdz35lJN6-JRXi1WCF9cuNbJVa2NrA/s640/lowboy.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This vintage Chippendale lowboy is very similar<br />
to the prized lowboy I purchased.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The lowboy was ensconsed in my mother's dining room with a tea set on top. It went with me to CT, then back to Newburyport, MA; always in my dining room. When my son bought a big house I passed it on to him because I had moved to a smaller house and needed to thin out quite a few pieces. It isn't period but it is still a handsome piece of furniture.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After practically a life time of buying property, selling property of our own along with many years as a Realtor I still can't resist looking at the ads and following new listings through Realtor.com. From time to time I check the listings in my home town.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A few days ago I did just that and there was a new listing. I recognized it instantly. It was the Norwood's old house on that country road. I looked at the photos and read the description claiming it to possibly be the oldest house in the town. That is very doubtful but it is still a nice country place, off the beaten path, with fireplaces, old stonewalls and pasture land on five acres.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicdkrJOEtlwy3wEGgPUQozHw0guRkdrJnk0JC5mPKbmMTbBRNFsS-ngynuVqJ3jvFmWnVSCCKmcipeo8u0mD8v1R5LW6vMrMScosCQQNp_lQ-b4O6LWwRK4T2Psq5_htHmoF-CIS_dnm4/s1600/Norcross+Hill+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicdkrJOEtlwy3wEGgPUQozHw0guRkdrJnk0JC5mPKbmMTbBRNFsS-ngynuVqJ3jvFmWnVSCCKmcipeo8u0mD8v1R5LW6vMrMScosCQQNp_lQ-b4O6LWwRK4T2Psq5_htHmoF-CIS_dnm4/s640/Norcross+Hill+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is an old picture of the house found on line. It is more as I remember it than the newer photos. It has a lovely Greek Revival door and <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">inside the house there are Greek Revival doors and mantels. The house is dated 1750 but it is probably closer to 1840. If it was 1750 it would be facing south and the front door would not be in the gable end of the house.The newer picture is easily recognizable but this is more the way I remember it. It was white not gray but had more detail than it does today.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Seeing the pictures of the house set me off down memory lane reminiscing about our hikes up Norcross Hill, my fond memories of the Norwoods and my introduction to Chippendale furniture. The only thing the Norwoods had that I didn't like was those awful fig newtons!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvvOxjdqk0a6gM9BYPZMQKZx2Xs4lVyjwMCGTMWCy5EOKsGxjtQO6odZrj7NLE1SdYB_80vtyvsZUUEhoJO8KLtLCJvEoEr1vDTOGE2QHffJgZ9bnDTHLD0Fuoz9723FS1kZDwBybt55M/s1600/Norcross+hill+pasture+land.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvvOxjdqk0a6gM9BYPZMQKZx2Xs4lVyjwMCGTMWCy5EOKsGxjtQO6odZrj7NLE1SdYB_80vtyvsZUUEhoJO8KLtLCJvEoEr1vDTOGE2QHffJgZ9bnDTHLD0Fuoz9723FS1kZDwBybt55M/s640/Norcross+hill+pasture+land.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old pastures and stonewalls add just the right touch to this country property.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Some things never change. I still love old houses and Chippendale furniture and I think I would still hate fig newtons, not that I have checked lately.<br />
<br />
Thanks for wandering down memory lane with me on a snowy January day.<br />
<br />
Pru<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-88465811375822920052016-12-21T17:33:00.000-08:002017-08-06T22:32:32.472-07:00REVISITING SOLOMON DAVIS' TEMPLE IN GLOUCESTER<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
SOLOMON'S TEMPLE REMEMBERED<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCxSBPosJApGF4GCkpGyjeSADYHjcj5K8MrkiKFXja6E7H6owscG57XSAgIJhlMitq5s8LFGl5NbSPN4xQ1-vqNu-ser2KkyJgJZp_Sv-lmG5F9b8H_80AvBexpMZQKkOGKadpGOwRvJY/s1600/Book+illustrations+001.tif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCxSBPosJApGF4GCkpGyjeSADYHjcj5K8MrkiKFXja6E7H6owscG57XSAgIJhlMitq5s8LFGl5NbSPN4xQ1-vqNu-ser2KkyJgJZp_Sv-lmG5F9b8H_80AvBexpMZQKkOGKadpGOwRvJY/s400/Book+illustrations+001.tif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Solomon's Temple in Gloucester, MA.Circa 1883. People on the portico are probably the <br />
descendants of Solomon and Mary Davis. Notice the arched trellis entrance into the garden.<br />
Photo property of Cape Ann Museum.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
Solomon Haskell Davis was born in Gloucester Sept. 3, 1803. His parents were Elias Davis and Lucy Haskell Davis. They lived on Pleasant Street in the house that became part of the Cape Ann Museum. That is where Solomon grew up. Here is a small family tree.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table class="t1" style="background-color: #fffff5; border-style: hidden; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; height: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; vertical-align: top; width: 580px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"><table><tbody>
<tr><td align="center" class="td6" style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; width: 139px;" valign="top"><span style="text-align: left;">.</span></td><td style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;" width="1"></td><td align="center" class="td6" style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; width: 139px;" valign="top"></td><td style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;" width="1"></td><td align="center" class="td6" style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; width: 139px;" valign="top"><br /></td><td style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;" width="1"></td><td align="center" class="td6" style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; width: 139px;" valign="top"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"><table><tbody>
<tr><td style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"><table cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr><td class="td6" style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; width: 139px;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td><td style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;" width="1"></td><td style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"><table cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr><td class="td6" style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; width: 139px;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td><td style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;" width="1"></td><td style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"><table class="t2" style="background-color: black; border-spacing: 1px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="td5" style="background-color: #f7f2e0; border: 1px; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; width: 139px;"><a class="a5" href="http://www.haskellfamilyhistory.com/database/41566.html" style="color: #2a2c05; text-decoration: none;"><span class="f5" style="font-size: 9.9px;">Dea. Francis HASKELL<br />(1722-1791/1793)</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td><td style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;" width="1"></td><td style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"><table class="t2" style="background-color: black; border-spacing: 1px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="td5" style="background-color: #f7f2e0; border: 1px; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; width: 139px;"><a class="a5" href="http://www.haskellfamilyhistory.com/database/48433.html" style="color: #2a2c05; text-decoration: none;"><span class="f5" style="font-size: 9.9px;">Elizabeth WHEELER<br />(1729-1804)</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td><td style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;" width="1"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="td1" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; height: 10px; line-height: normal; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; width: 580px;"><table border="0"><tbody>
<tr><td class="td3" style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; height: 10px; line-height: normal; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; width: 290px;"><table border="0"><tbody>
<tr><td class="td3" style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; height: 10px; line-height: normal; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; width: 290px;"><table class="t2" style="background-color: black; border-spacing: 1px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="td5" style="background-color: #f7f2e0; border: 1px; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; width: 139px;"><a class="a5" href="http://www.haskellfamilyhistory.com/database/2/48594.html" style="color: #2a2c05; text-decoration: none;"><span class="f5" style="font-size: 9.9px;">Capt. Elias DAVIS<br />(1758-1821)</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td><td class="td3" style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; height: 10px; line-height: normal; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; width: 290px;"><table border="0"><tbody>
<tr><td class="td3" style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; height: 10px; line-height: normal; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; width: 290px;"><table class="t2" style="background-color: black; border-spacing: 1px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="td5" style="background-color: #f7f2e0; border: 1px; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; width: 139px;"><a class="a5" href="http://www.haskellfamilyhistory.com/database/2/48724.html" style="color: #2a2c05; text-decoration: none;"><span class="f5" style="font-size: 9.9px;">Lucy HASKELL<br />(1761-1847)</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="td2" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; height: 10px; line-height: normal; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; width: 590px;"><table class="t2" style="background-color: black; border-spacing: 1px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="td5" style="background-color: #f7f2e0; border: 1px; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; width: 139px;"><span class="f5" style="font-size: 9.9px;">Solomon Haskell DAVIS<br />(1803-1866)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Chart found on Ancestry</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: #fffff5; text-align: center;">Solomon married Mary</span><span class="apple-converted-space" style="text-align: center;"> </span><span style="background-color: #fffff5; text-align: center;">Babson,
daughter of William Rogers</span><span class="apple-converted-space" style="text-align: center;"> </span><span style="background-color: #fffff5; text-align: center;">Babson,
Jr. and Mary Griffin, on February 22, 1830 in Gloucester.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="background: rgb(255, 255, 245);">Mary<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Babson<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>was born on June 13, 1804 in
Gloucester</span><span style="background: #FFFFF5;"> and died on June 13, 1881 in
Gloucester. </span><span style="background-color: #fffff5;"> She died of hemiplegia
which was probably a stroke causing paralysis. It appears that she died on her birthday.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: #fffff5;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
Their three children were Sarah Babson Davis; Solomon Haskell Davis, Jr. and Mary Louise Davis.<br />
<span style="background-color: #fffff5;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #fffff5;">On May 7, 1839 Solomon Davis, a successful shipmaster, purchased a houselot on Middle Street in Gloucester from Serena Dale, widow of Dr. Ebenezer Dale. This piece of land had been part of the grounds to the Dale house which was situated to the left side of the houselot.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fffff5;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #fffff5;">This circa 1840 house was imposing on the exterior. The inside was more restrained. Photos of the fireplaces show mantel that look rather Federal but are slightly plainer and a little heavier which is in keeping with the age of the house.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fffff5;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #fffff5;">This is the decade when fireplaces were declining and stoves were replacing the fireplaces. By 1850 it would be hard to find a fireplace in a new house.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fffff5;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #fffff5;">During this decade many houses had traditional mantels as did the Davis house but sometimes there was no fireplace but a thimble for attaching a stove. It is hard to tell but the Davis house may not have had fireplaces. The kitchen fireplace was the last to go but without a photo of the kitchen it is impossible to know what Mary Davis cooked on in her new 1840 kitchen.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fffff5;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcWQSgqI-TSZzkhGbkRCXxj4rP1AxYbh1AHnB3d0KRmw9de7MTT88dRLurShlV9btINb9ba3Qfn-vLguu24_24I8tYSz1oM7bjgY95k012UHtrd9nFzQNh7jFLzsgxl4YhniIWHZz7vHw/s1600/Davis+house+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcWQSgqI-TSZzkhGbkRCXxj4rP1AxYbh1AHnB3d0KRmw9de7MTT88dRLurShlV9btINb9ba3Qfn-vLguu24_24I8tYSz1oM7bjgY95k012UHtrd9nFzQNh7jFLzsgxl4YhniIWHZz7vHw/s640/Davis+house+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is one of the fireplaces with a thimble for connecting a stove. It doesn't look as though there is a<br />
hearth in front of the mantel. The doors are now four panel doors which prevailed from this period until<br />
the end of the 19th century. It is hard to tell if it had thumb latches on the doors. It probably did but they updated <br />
with door knobs. Photo courtesy of Dawn Dexter and Cape Ann Museum.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoLMqHaUMVfAx-TMVY8hYy90hnWywsbp_DkjkpqigCfexSljYgCkBJTrINcZUteNo7ZDMlE62plhuiEYtiw1DWRkNkXB1mBpeQ1Utkg3tuzl9v8H4VG_B7dHOjA1dp2Q6M7Hvw1lkvLDs/s1600/Davis+house+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoLMqHaUMVfAx-TMVY8hYy90hnWywsbp_DkjkpqigCfexSljYgCkBJTrINcZUteNo7ZDMlE62plhuiEYtiw1DWRkNkXB1mBpeQ1Utkg3tuzl9v8H4VG_B7dHOjA1dp2Q6M7Hvw1lkvLDs/s640/Davis+house+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">This another similar, simple but dignified mantel. It also is equipped for a wood stove, a feature of the</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Greek </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Revival period.. </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo courtesy of Dawn Dexter and CAM</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="background-color: #fffff5;">The Dale house next door was located on the corner of Hancock Street but its garden extended along Middle street until it came to the home of William and Mary Babson, parents of Solomon's wife, Mary Babson Davis. Their house was a modest but lovely Federal period house with elegant woodwork built by Jonathan Ober, housewright. whom I suspect may have also built the Ellery Dale House.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fffff5;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="background-color: #fffff5;">The Dale house had been built around 1790 and before being purchased by the Dales had been the home of John Stevens Ellery and his wife, Esther Sargent Ellery who had moved to Boston. Esther was the sister of Judith Sargent Murray whose house was just down the street and is now the Sargent house useum. These two grand houses belonging to the two sisters were very similar on the inside. The main difference on the exterior was that Judith's house had a gambrel roof when built and Esther's built about ten years later had a hipped room and was the first house built in Gloucester of the style which became very popular during the Federal period.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: #fffff5;"><br /></span></div>
<table class="t1" style="background-color: #fffff5; border-style: hidden; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; height: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; vertical-align: top; width: 580px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOsJTuOs7aWZ7Gv_9lY06YQsQkJv2Rm02VMwJ_JagLGDBDviwzEnLM8CE5mg2EffLhohHlvcfeDAWx4HdnvBa-5YDQKA5OcSbxHSYAyUMhQLVG53lnEwHveagJkxPrNcxkK0uRgd3XfWI/s1600/Book+illustrations+051.tif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOsJTuOs7aWZ7Gv_9lY06YQsQkJv2Rm02VMwJ_JagLGDBDviwzEnLM8CE5mg2EffLhohHlvcfeDAWx4HdnvBa-5YDQKA5OcSbxHSYAyUMhQLVG53lnEwHveagJkxPrNcxkK0uRgd3XfWI/s400/Book+illustrations+051.tif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">This is the Ellery-Dale house. On the right side just a littleof Solomon Davis's </span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">house shows. The very beautiful Ellery-Dale house was cut in half and moved to </span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">two</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> locations in order</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">to make way for the first building of the new YMCA as this </span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">street </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">became more commercial</span><span style="font-size: x-small;">. </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo property of P Fish</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />
<table><tbody>
<tr><td align="center" class="td6" style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; width: 139px;" valign="top"></td><td style="font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;" width="1"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table class="t1" style="background-color: #fffff5; border-style: hidden; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; height: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; vertical-align: top; width: 580px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 8.5pt;">Gloucester was not noted for having very many houses of the Greek Revival style and this house was probably the most pretentious of all of them with its stately columns and its wrought iron balcony inside the columns at the second floor level.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 8.5pt;">After the death of Solomon in 1866 and his wife, Mary, in 1881 the house was inherited by the three children. Solomon, Jr lived in Sacramento in the latter part of the 19th century and eventually his share transferred to the two daughters, his sisters, Sarah, wife of John Chamberlain and Mary Louise who never married.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 8.5pt;">It next went to another generation of Chamberlains; John, son of Sarah Davis Chamberlain and her husband, John Chamberlain. His wife was Elizabeth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 8.5pt; line-height: 13.0333px;">John and Elizabeth sold land to Alex Patillo as the street became more commercialized. Patillo built a large brick building that became a furniture store very close to Solomon's temple which was now hemmed in between two large brick buildings.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 8.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
</span><br />
<div align="center">
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 4.0pt 4.0pt 4.0pt 4.0pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOv36Hg8fkCL8FmdCbWWQcKCI5Yp9DwS51kaFvQAGuMCmjQi6sbFXBiAR72rxD9yuKFXmQLtPnmvuoRzwXhn8ZH8nryuVNQoBGI5lMEbfriSkVLlsQkxloY_NSWkZOrl0hGEXlqlR-ZF0/s1600/Book+illustrations+054.tif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="435" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOv36Hg8fkCL8FmdCbWWQcKCI5Yp9DwS51kaFvQAGuMCmjQi6sbFXBiAR72rxD9yuKFXmQLtPnmvuoRzwXhn8ZH8nryuVNQoBGI5lMEbfriSkVLlsQkxloY_NSWkZOrl0hGEXlqlR-ZF0/s640/Book+illustrations+054.tif" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: medium; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 8.5pt;">Th</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 8.5pt;">se was the William Babson house, in-laws to Solomon Davis.</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: medium; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 8.5pt;">Photo courtesy of Cape Ann Museum</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 2.65pt 4.0pt 4.0pt 4.0pt;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;">The Babson's piazza with the columns </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;">was a later addition. The columns were removed from the Universalist church diagonally across </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;">street. They were taken out when the church was remodeled and the box pews were removed. T</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;">he gallery was suspended differently. All those columns would have been a </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;">nuisance with the new arrangement of pews. The patches in the plaster where the </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;">columns were removed can still be seen. This house was later moved to a new location without </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: center;">he columns.</span></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="td1" style="font-stretch: normal; height: 10px; line-height: normal; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; width: 580px;"><table border="0" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><tbody></tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">The Davis house can be seen on
the left. The beautiful Dale house and the William Babson </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">house became like book ends to
Solomon Davis's temple until the bookends were replaced by the large brick bookends. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDe8RWsLM9O0rB8IiAzNpFsHoHHWgPL6O1UIOYN89zQHoWhJPZDF3wBJzs8_FMb4XwEQyNht-PI7VsXiH6Ir2vqeMfCVbiiVarznM-15tAgq9dSvTNFYF8OyFhJtGa1zTobfxXzmd7Xwo/s1600/Davis+house+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDe8RWsLM9O0rB8IiAzNpFsHoHHWgPL6O1UIOYN89zQHoWhJPZDF3wBJzs8_FMb4XwEQyNht-PI7VsXiH6Ir2vqeMfCVbiiVarznM-15tAgq9dSvTNFYF8OyFhJtGa1zTobfxXzmd7Xwo/s640/Davis+house+12.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Here is the house on the day it was demolished. It is shabby but in its need of</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> a new paint job it almost looks as though the house is made of granite. The </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">front facade of the house appears to be smooth boards to resemble marble. It is </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">December and there is an enclosure in front of the door that would be removed in </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">the warm months. Photo courtesy of Dawn Dexter and Cape Ann Museum.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Now it was all downhill for this once beautiful block on Middle Street. It had become commercial and the only residence left was the Solomon Davis house.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Then things really took a turn for the worse. The "Y" wished to expand and they wanted the now shabby but elegant Davis house. It would be replaced by an indoor swimming </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">pool. The "Y" prevailed. Solomon's Temple was doomed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwfYHZxMH8XMuz5Slljqx4QhkNod7uHP_Mvqo1rgaNFJxjU8hYaMUeAn4xeumzaVOXfyFPPfqNCVeN4STynKTmB_4IxiYwKUPbf8pBHrtovCJRiG1NLQdeoYqfX6WTPuAkOhZiw7R_3Q/s1600/Davis+house+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwfYHZxMH8XMuz5Slljqx4QhkNod7uHP_Mvqo1rgaNFJxjU8hYaMUeAn4xeumzaVOXfyFPPfqNCVeN4STynKTmB_4IxiYwKUPbf8pBHrtovCJRiG1NLQdeoYqfX6WTPuAkOhZiw7R_3Q/s640/Davis+house+13.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The last photo before the start of the demolition. Notice the French window on the </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">second floor left for access to the balcony behind the columns. See how the sun </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">glints off the old window panes. Replacement windows can never look like that these</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">windows with their true </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">divided lites of glass reflecting the light. Unidentified man near</span></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> the door. Photo c</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">ourtesy of Dawn Dexter and Cape Ann Museum</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">By this time one of the most significant poets of the 20th century had settled in Gloucester; Charles Olson. He was an enormous, imposing man and a preservationist. When the news broke that Solomon's Temple would be demolished Olson joined the fight to save it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">On December 3, 1965 Charles Olson wrote a letter to the Gloucester Times in poetry form. It was called "A Scream to the Editor". It wasn't enough to save the house but what he wrote has never been forgotten or overlooked. Because of Olson and the impact of his "Scream", the memory of the grand house has been kept alive.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Here are excerpts of Olson's words taken from his "Scream to the Editor of the Gloucester Daily Times.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i> Moan the loss, </i></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i> another house</i></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i> is gone</i></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i> which assumes</i></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i> its taste, bemoan the easiness</i></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i> of smashing anything.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSOw0gMwNtnLi3T6kjKE_H8ww3JLj1GJpFZBiDQbapuaNhaIGxrtFOAgBHeBpNZVbwdzdqiy_nD8us3EKzXSeeqgvHD1vtOvqW2_ROmwtYM2SdhS4nSiYXIFkvDRYo_AaQ8rg9h9elqwk/s1600/Davis+house+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSOw0gMwNtnLi3T6kjKE_H8ww3JLj1GJpFZBiDQbapuaNhaIGxrtFOAgBHeBpNZVbwdzdqiy_nD8us3EKzXSeeqgvHD1vtOvqW2_ROmwtYM2SdhS4nSiYXIFkvDRYo_AaQ8rg9h9elqwk/s640/Davis+house+6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The demolition begins. Hagstrom was hired to complete the demolition. </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Can't help but wonder who operated the equipment and how he </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">felt. He was just doing his job. Courtesy of Dawn Dexter and CAM</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i> Bemoan Solomon Davis'</i></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i> house gone </i></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i> for the YMCA to build another</i></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> of its cheap benevolent places</i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> bankers raise money for</i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcILlq3qFj5rZEl9efcbBcgo3Vrq2pGr8n6MO3i9h6KrXYZ4GiqSqmuG0s18euaClcFmLNozXQVnpOOhq9xLrQ1En6Lg6EGQVIQfmAJc7tg93pJOHit80jzJwCNaCblWPoKJ12oLige5o/s1600/Davis+house+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcILlq3qFj5rZEl9efcbBcgo3Vrq2pGr8n6MO3i9h6KrXYZ4GiqSqmuG0s18euaClcFmLNozXQVnpOOhq9xLrQ1En6Lg6EGQVIQfmAJc7tg93pJOHit80jzJwCNaCblWPoKJ12oLige5o/s640/Davis+house+7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big bites dig into the top of the house. Courtesy of Dawn Dexter and CAM</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">In reference to its dignity and stateliness Olson proclaimed.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> <i>as well made the Solomon</i> <i>Davis house itself</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i> was such George Washington</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i> could well have been inaugurated </i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i> from its second floor. </i>(in reference to the balcony)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV990bna2QfSD8GddE-otzJ8G_Twqxt4HHTH02SuPRNK8CohPk-7W9Y00Sfx7-u4jq7Uy8XMhyFE8UbNMu8-0vqwqzCE6PNNYTvSCStCkGQhpjDrQs5GLqdb1c8V1vsEdU-uK7kGdWym8/s1600/Davis+house+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV990bna2QfSD8GddE-otzJ8G_Twqxt4HHTH02SuPRNK8CohPk-7W9Y00Sfx7-u4jq7Uy8XMhyFE8UbNMu8-0vqwqzCE6PNNYTvSCStCkGQhpjDrQs5GLqdb1c8V1vsEdU-uK7kGdWym8/s640/Davis+house+8.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The demolition continues in tight quarters. Courtesy of Dawn Dexter and CAM.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcILlq3qFj5rZEl9efcbBcgo3Vrq2pGr8n6MO3i9h6KrXYZ4GiqSqmuG0s18euaClcFmLNozXQVnpOOhq9xLrQ1En6Lg6EGQVIQfmAJc7tg93pJOHit80jzJwCNaCblWPoKJ12oLige5o/s1600/Davis+house+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcILlq3qFj5rZEl9efcbBcgo3Vrq2pGr8n6MO3i9h6KrXYZ4GiqSqmuG0s18euaClcFmLNozXQVnpOOhq9xLrQ1En6Lg6EGQVIQfmAJc7tg93pJOHit80jzJwCNaCblWPoKJ12oLige5o/s640/Davis+house+7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">As the demolition proceeded Olson agonized. Photo courtesy of Dawn Dexter and CAM.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i> Now the capitals of Solomon Davis' house</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i> now the second floor behind the black grill work</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i> now the windows which reached too,</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTKTeLDXlLgV_2SRd5EDJxkZ4iIRYjCJC8hjTB7b7AiurJLHN3IjaBae9Tp0YC54y1I8jFr6qsL_dC_Dr99Mk2C6dxLSfgYEPwZbkDBIQnVw9ppKEIK1F6e_Zt83MrSBd_1wPt9ajMsTI/s1600/Davis+house+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTKTeLDXlLgV_2SRd5EDJxkZ4iIRYjCJC8hjTB7b7AiurJLHN3IjaBae9Tp0YC54y1I8jFr6qsL_dC_Dr99Mk2C6dxLSfgYEPwZbkDBIQnVw9ppKEIK1F6e_Zt83MrSBd_1wPt9ajMsTI/s640/Davis+house+11.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There it goes. There is no turning back now. The deed is done as the stately fluted columns crash onto Middle St. <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">It's almost over. Solomon's Temple is no more. Photo courtesy of Dawn Dexter and CAM.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Olson concludes with this:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i> For $25,000 I do not think anyone</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i> Should ever have let the YMCA take down Solomon Davis'</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i> house for any purpose of the YMCA.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">There is much more to this poem, but persuasive as Olson was, Solomon Davis' Temple was destroyed right in front of his eyes.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Charles Olson was not the only person watching and bemoaning the desecration.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Another Gloucester resident and preservationist, Harold Dexter, who owned and saved other significant houses was there with his camera. Now his daughter, Dawn Dexter, has donated his slides of this awful event to the Cape Ann Museum. With her permission and the permission of the museum we can show you what happened that sad day.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">And now, ironically, the YMCA is expanding again. With no more room for expansion left at this location the "Y" is moving to a new location. And, yes, another building, the former Fuller School, will be demolished to accommodate the new YMCA. This leaves the old building on the site of the Ellery-Dale house, and its swimming pool addition on the site of Solomon Davis' house with its future up in the air.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sadly, the Dale house, the Babson house and Solomon's Temple are history. What a stately block of lovely houses it was!</span></div>
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It is painful to look at Harold Dexter's photos but so grateful to have them and thankful that he recorded that awful event with his camera. And we are thankful to Charles Olson who recorded the event both dramatically and eloquently with his words.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">And thanks to Dawn Dexter for saving her father's slides and making them available.[</span></div>
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Charles Olson said:</span></div>
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i> I hate those who take away</i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i> and do not have as good to </i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i> offer. I hate the carelessness</i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">And so do I!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Thanks for reading.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Pru</span><br />
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-71173505302545862842016-12-18T09:22:00.002-08:002016-12-21T08:57:12.678-08:00PLANK FRAMES, SECRETS IN THE WALLS OF AN OLD HOUSE<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>THE TELLTALE SIGNS OF A PLANK FRAMED HOUSE</b></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwc5Q4_HJqbXybmMnifrh0hV7IwrKKP7CYZ6tcCQKlwwn998IKL-NLYCcYv1YaecHin5IM8tqxYln_ocNmZwr6csKg_ZgzeJVNM_ZU-eiuYTE3630nQpHfIKkUlp4ZaoHWTwGIJytZHgk/s1600/Haskell+house+restored.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwc5Q4_HJqbXybmMnifrh0hV7IwrKKP7CYZ6tcCQKlwwn998IKL-NLYCcYv1YaecHin5IM8tqxYln_ocNmZwr6csKg_ZgzeJVNM_ZU-eiuYTE3630nQpHfIKkUlp4ZaoHWTwGIJytZHgk/s640/Haskell+house+restored.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plank framed Haskell house in Gloucester. See details below</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sometimes I think I sound like a broken record as I keep reminding people of regional
differences in early house construction.
Sometimes these differences vary from state to state and other times the differences are noticeable from one town to another.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I regularly read what people post in “Colonial Home Owners” a
closed Facebook group of people who own old houses. Several contributors are from southern New
England; Connecticut and Rhode Island or upstate New York. I see things all the time on this site that
would mean something different to me here in Gloucester, Cape Ann, Massachusetts. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of these features is overhangs on the
gable ends of the houses. To me that
would say that the house is first period (1640-1725) but these houses in other areas seem to
have later dates in the second period. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihsXuu7TxnnUJ1bkCCewYoe2kXP4-WSOi9AnOWZrrRKTr9nYAHe7-Y7F4U8l88Y0wa89c2MjtatGEZ0OjzEoDFwqTPP1IwW2cfmtd_eaLZpgA5GD5059aQZaWQXlDCb-bpG7Pqn7srbBE/s1600/Eveleth+Presson+house%252C+Little+River.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="584" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihsXuu7TxnnUJ1bkCCewYoe2kXP4-WSOi9AnOWZrrRKTr9nYAHe7-Y7F4U8l88Y0wa89c2MjtatGEZ0OjzEoDFwqTPP1IwW2cfmtd_eaLZpgA5GD5059aQZaWQXlDCb-bpG7Pqn7srbBE/s640/Eveleth+Presson+house%252C+Little+River.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is a remarkable photo of a house long gone. It is from a stereo view that came up for sale on eBay and downloaded. The <span style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;">Cape Ann Museum obtained the original. Not only does it show the typical vertical planking and overhang but is one of a very few </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">with a double overhang. The house was in a lonely spot along the waterside. Picknickers would go there by boat</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> to enjoy the setting. I would date the house to the first decade of the 18th century..</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the local level here in Essex County, Massachusetts a mere twenty or so miles is enough
for a major change in building construction.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In Beverly, Salem or Danvers, Massachusetts the early
settlers tended to be from the West in England and brought their building style
to America. This system of construction
was already out of date in East Anglia where so many other settlers had their roots.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The defining trait of the housewrights in this area settled
by Englishmen from the west of England is a transverse summer beam. In this neighborhood the summer beam goes
from front to back on both the first and second floor of the house.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Housewrights from East Anglia alternated with
the first floor summer beam extending from the gable end of the house to the
chimney girt above the fireplace. Once
in a while one of these transverse summer beams going the opposite way will show up in Gloucester on
Cape Ann making one question who the builder was, where he came from or where
the house frame came from. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The distance between these two neighborhoods is only a
twenty minute drive from Cape Ann but there are two distinctly different
schools of house construction.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On Cape Ann the summer beams and the frame are more typical
but wait a minute! Something else that is very
different occurred underneath those clapboards.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Typically the house frame would be sheathed with horizontal
boards. The walls would be studded on
the interior with lath applied to the studs and then plastered. Sometimes the interior wall space was filled
with some material for insulation. This
could be wattle and daub, hay or often bricks laid up somewhat haphazardly
because they were not meant to be seen.
This brick infill in the walls is called nogging. The
old Haskell house in Gloucester has nogging only in the north wall, obviously
to give the cold side of the house a little more protection from the north
wind.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6XtUdm3er_zsScMMd87si_luoRIuSuRt9538_1DAzUQXMruNDEaSbvsIa44yUd9rx6S1LYfez8PJyxnmukKWb_Sr5kPBrIhgFZE3wGTwac_fpIOkAdCQ8oIXq3RsKt7Q1WLlx4oZJq8/s1600/nogging+in+lean-to+attic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6XtUdm3er_zsScMMd87si_luoRIuSuRt9538_1DAzUQXMruNDEaSbvsIa44yUd9rx6S1LYfez8PJyxnmukKWb_Sr5kPBrIhgFZE3wGTwac_fpIOkAdCQ8oIXq3RsKt7Q1WLlx4oZJq8/s640/nogging+in+lean-to+attic.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a peek at brick nogging in the original north wall of the Haskell house. It is seen in the attic of the lean-to added<br />
to the house at a later date.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Abbott Lowell Cummings talks about plank framed houses in
his book, “Framed Houses of Massachusetts Bay”.
He even offers a map showing a decided concentration of plank framed
houses in the Cape Ann area with others scattered around Essex County to a much
lesser degree.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My first experience with plank framing came when a friend
who was working on an old house called me to come over to look at a situation
that had her workmen puzzled. Rewiring
the house required breaking some holes in the plaster of this very shabby old house. Her attention was called by an electrician
who saw something strange. When a
flashlight was shined into the hole in the wall they were peering at another
very old plastered wall behind. On this wall was
early 19<sup>th</sup> century wallpaper. Further study, exploration and research told the story.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGdri_2gEi77DXzDxuq5W33eJ_Bog_H4sDWJiIH8p7DfiFMSmQ7bW0dZGY-rVB9kvAlAfcz0yS77hVSAmkZ-9D6nxge5EeFER_waumvp0tKuck75_89TwjrpTMICtZubAjOOCSYqcOjbs/s1600/528+Washington+St.%252C+Wharf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGdri_2gEi77DXzDxuq5W33eJ_Bog_H4sDWJiIH8p7DfiFMSmQ7bW0dZGY-rVB9kvAlAfcz0yS77hVSAmkZ-9D6nxge5EeFER_waumvp0tKuck75_89TwjrpTMICtZubAjOOCSYqcOjbs/s640/528+Washington+St.%252C+Wharf.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is a 19th century photo of this plank framed house that looks pretty bad but it did survive. Twenty years<br />
ago it was looking bad again but has been remodelled and sadly, all of the features which survived through<br />
the hard times <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">are now gone...into the dumpster. CAM photo</span><br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This was a plank framed house dating to about 1718 and what happened later becomes a typical scenario as we go from house to house that are dated to the first period.<br />
<br />
When constructing a plank framed house there are no
horizontal sheathing boards as one would expect. Instead huge, two inch thick wide planks
sheath the frame <i>vertically</i>, not horizontally.
The girt and the plate have a rabbet, a groove, that is prepared to
receive the planks at the top of the house. The planks are then pinned to the frame above the first floor and again at the sills with wooden pegs or spikes<br />
<br />
The recent restoration of the Old Haskell House, a Gloucester landmark, offered the opportunity to photograph a plank framed house clearly demonstrating the vertical planks covering the frame.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQGuf88slEe0ZbvMGRl7HRFZ9mD4sL16vDzR8fOTDfqiY7OBZvghm8H2FSNGTfVE69oyONjaZgUoc6QDmzvMLg3fXueZN36XWCmYS5fBwS4v6JMjbkWNucGtsBSTK9S3all0CeyaJp89Y/s1600/south+side+front+door16x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQGuf88slEe0ZbvMGRl7HRFZ9mD4sL16vDzR8fOTDfqiY7OBZvghm8H2FSNGTfVE69oyONjaZgUoc6QDmzvMLg3fXueZN36XWCmYS5fBwS4v6JMjbkWNucGtsBSTK9S3all0CeyaJp89Y/s640/south+side+front+door16x.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vertical planking on exterior of the Haskell House.<br />
Gloucester, MA</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh287sWfTzY6K_afbDkY9VCplVg9v9c-a9qi7gQi1ZmlB6kaegVMqsb4EF9LSLv0tAlXtAwRO0kGhMewE_ZyP5l0JBAyI6SM9IWSh9P2iCQC36Ab7I9tTHTZbSlS2INvVhWNKqzZcbXqAg/s1600/From+Eastside16x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh287sWfTzY6K_afbDkY9VCplVg9v9c-a9qi7gQi1ZmlB6kaegVMqsb4EF9LSLv0tAlXtAwRO0kGhMewE_ZyP5l0JBAyI6SM9IWSh9P2iCQC36Ab7I9tTHTZbSlS2INvVhWNKqzZcbXqAg/s320/From+Eastside16x.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gable end of the house where the planks are<br />
inserted into a groove creating a small overhang</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
These planks are then pinned to the beams at the second
floor level and at the bottom are pinned to the sills of the house. The sill
remains visible inside the completed house running around the edges of the
first floor.<br />
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHDLDdnxFUBaDe3BgcjfQkBl5NMogYfKjs3fPrwSrGYMlOLAhPySFvFQBrV_og7gtDlXV0KqTvNoNHtCoPUEj3WBE766Z6VH3JBQsclq2gHUqiBTQQDPLR6xpzBPun88y0VC1mF8pLhrA/s1600/Four+windows+south+face16x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHDLDdnxFUBaDe3BgcjfQkBl5NMogYfKjs3fPrwSrGYMlOLAhPySFvFQBrV_og7gtDlXV0KqTvNoNHtCoPUEj3WBE766Z6VH3JBQsclq2gHUqiBTQQDPLR6xpzBPun88y0VC1mF8pLhrA/s320/Four+windows+south+face16x.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another view of the stripped house.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6VwNE8Z7Qavmj7a77PMf6pGBqTnJEuRZROriEO4LKXmGyWzpanBeQ02MaPx8K5oLtNwfJemnO4q9ixy7w6ATmETMU7CSMVnYmdGCaCUKOy7_AChwCEDDDn0db97gHNNWSmUiA-zW8huc/s1600/Original+window+opening.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6VwNE8Z7Qavmj7a77PMf6pGBqTnJEuRZROriEO4LKXmGyWzpanBeQ02MaPx8K5oLtNwfJemnO4q9ixy7w6ATmETMU7CSMVnYmdGCaCUKOy7_AChwCEDDDn0db97gHNNWSmUiA-zW8huc/s400/Original+window+opening.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There is ample evidence in the patches to prove<br />
that the house originally had leaded casement windows,</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Over time, perhaps to make the house warmer and to cover up
the large exposed beams and sills the walls were built out. Studs were added to the old walls then
followed by new laths and plaster until the room appeared much more modern and
the original walls now entombed behind the new walls.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This alteration could go unnoticed for decades until someone,
like my friend, discovered the double walls in her house.<br />
<br />
Laths were attached with rose head nails inside the house. Riven lath, short strips of oak, are nailed directly to the planks on the inside of the house and attached with rose head nails.<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
Next comes the plaster applied to the lath to finish the interior. The walls are a thin sandwich of sheathing with clapboards on the exterior, and lath and plaster on the interior. That is all there is.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<br />
A better known example is Gloucester’s White- Ellery House,
a study house open by appointment or on the first Saturday of each month from
June to October. This 1710 house had also been built out covering the raised interior sill and some of the framing and molding around the ceiling. Its interior appearance with wallpaper became quite Victorian. It is owned by the Cape Ann Museum.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVqvfMI3qtfbojDOGCSR6yYs56CUO0Fk7Izm7PbUcTeFaDISincN0rtptiEfPVRVRauz8xAn5lJRkyS4wy5FST6I8yAtCXl59fk02e5vz92vt9FnRhZFAu8s9KbSsfS6kqDRfZ16eU16o/s1600/White+Ellery+and+SPNEA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVqvfMI3qtfbojDOGCSR6yYs56CUO0Fk7Izm7PbUcTeFaDISincN0rtptiEfPVRVRauz8xAn5lJRkyS4wy5FST6I8yAtCXl59fk02e5vz92vt9FnRhZFAu8s9KbSsfS6kqDRfZ16eU16o/s320/White+Ellery+and+SPNEA.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the White-Ellery house with new clapboards, The windows<br />
are now replaced with leaded casements.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Around 1947 this venerable house was in the
path of highway construction and was moved to a safer spot across the
street. At this time the newer walls
were removed and the original walls with paint and plaster were revealed after
being sealed away for who knows how many years.
Old photographs show papered rooms that looked Victorian.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnRZwjJjUBv6h-FNBu9y9rsnQ21NkrrPc7-kJb5DBA5ggAO6yWKfOSex4w99_YTS_9zmvk9jTt9thji7JS7axDJORTOrxh9aCs5MWN3cz98brSNO8wQwxn5_ysJp1-Ywfl607RRdkU5nM/s1600/Ellery+House+1880s-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnRZwjJjUBv6h-FNBu9y9rsnQ21NkrrPc7-kJb5DBA5ggAO6yWKfOSex4w99_YTS_9zmvk9jTt9thji7JS7axDJORTOrxh9aCs5MWN3cz98brSNO8wQwxn5_ysJp1-Ywfl607RRdkU5nM/s320/Ellery+House+1880s-a.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The White Ellery house in the 19th century with overhang.<br />
Photo property of Cape Ann Museum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The City of Gloucester has approximately ten houses that are
first period. The only one that has been
dated using dendrochronology is the White-Ellery house in which case the date that was first determined by deed research was confirmed to be 1710.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was present when someone who had obtained salvage rights
to an ancient house opened up the walls.
This house dated to about 1718-1720 and there were the planks. This house was partially torn down saving much good material including a lot of unpainted feather edged sheathing before being abandoned, then bulldozed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvprKZazrEyLc-6QNkjB7FH_zBhIKPk6lYPrifO1GU2h4uT-roJftbwN9xGmr5sE8SsQmKzNzkqYs8Y0sYZmIRT37Xe05HJTJGVtmUi85-V3fbzU5KJWtJIwWNnBOY4RMh1uiYGYVFNI0/s1600/96+Prospect++1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvprKZazrEyLc-6QNkjB7FH_zBhIKPk6lYPrifO1GU2h4uT-roJftbwN9xGmr5sE8SsQmKzNzkqYs8Y0sYZmIRT37Xe05HJTJGVtmUi85-V3fbzU5KJWtJIwWNnBOY4RMh1uiYGYVFNI0/s400/96+Prospect++1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was there when this house was opened up and a much earlier first period<br />
plank framed house was revealed at the core of this seemingly second period house.<br />
Photo property of Cape Ann Museum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On and on it goes.
House after house has been confirmed to have the vertical planks of a planked
framed house.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is another giveaway.
When the planks meet the end girt at the top of a first period house and
are inserted into the rabbet it forms a very shallow overhang. Each plank framed house has displayed this slight overhang.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of the ten or so houses dating to the first period eight have
evidence of the overhang. Two of them do
not show an overhang. These are the two
houses that appear to be the oldest of the ten.
They have not been tested by dendrochronology but have such steep roofs
they could only be 17<sup>th</sup> century.
An early date of around 1660 has been ascribed to one of the two. One knows instantly that it is from the
1700s. There is no sign of the
overhang. Plank framing, at least in Gloucester
appears to begin closer to 1700.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb8Bi5NJg05o6SKjo77CTfNZVg84DTAhyphenhyphen6abl5_Fpbsru1u4cAa-jER-yn2-Ra8YN5BzIYdaJ4rKTeS0rLtyvneR184cd2adb-Tdqjp5vqFmTC25GX0Kmk7ViJbDkK6ePWDmW8p-YwSsM/s1600/1.++Proctor+house%252C+Concord+Street+++.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb8Bi5NJg05o6SKjo77CTfNZVg84DTAhyphenhyphen6abl5_Fpbsru1u4cAa-jER-yn2-Ra8YN5BzIYdaJ4rKTeS0rLtyvneR184cd2adb-Tdqjp5vqFmTC25GX0Kmk7ViJbDkK6ePWDmW8p-YwSsM/s640/1.++Proctor+house%252C+Concord+Street+++.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is one of Gloucester's two earliest houses dating to the 17th century. There is no <br />
sign of a gable overhang but the extreme steep pitch of the roof is a clue to it's<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">very early date.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It has been suggested by some that plank framed houses were
built in areas close to a saw mill. Here
there were several saw mills and that may have encouraged the building of these
houses. Perhaps they were also quicker or cheaper to build.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Recently I received a call from a homeowner in West Gloucester. Her house was recognized in the past with an
incredibly early date of 1651. Yet in 1985 when
Boston University conducted a survey of first period houses all of which were
placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990 this house was not
included.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZlG7EeG5DGg1n0boRMPQCcnVDRbRH5sVkUH5ClWqE8pJQuZTgV8EmNs1g9hyphenhyphenzVN2hlmBrxioC0twNnjVhQ06oNIMM5euNWvHlbnvu2OArH2IqXmuZdQidlkhMSnzu6N2QXi8pbIW5Jts/s1600/Red+Coat+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZlG7EeG5DGg1n0boRMPQCcnVDRbRH5sVkUH5ClWqE8pJQuZTgV8EmNs1g9hyphenhyphenzVN2hlmBrxioC0twNnjVhQ06oNIMM5euNWvHlbnvu2OArH2IqXmuZdQidlkhMSnzu6N2QXi8pbIW5Jts/s400/Red+Coat+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The former Redcoat Antiques in West Gloucester</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmniYTriS87ejeqyINea8uYQq6vmN_uLGRS1gl-iajc0tDnw8N-9XjWjj5tTbsRrXDs4WNaxvmBOIPCykRzFlCWYZgAQ3tvegnJsBTqi1cIrKoJNcLiLUxfDXRrn51AltSOGdKTTQ5tfs/s640/red+coat+antiques.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="554" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The overhang on the gable end of the house<br />
can be seen through the shadows.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I had been in this house about 35 years ago but didn’t
remember the details and have to admit that way back then I probably didn’t
know very much about first period construction.
I had been living in Newburyport, MA, famous for its beautiful Federal
period houses and some wonderful Georgian houses. I had been immersed in studying these periods
and had not had much exposure to first period houses.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The owner told me that her
beams were chamfered with a flat chamfer. That alone would indicate first
period. I was able to find a couple of pictures of the house online and
when I looked closely there was the gable overhang. It must be a planked
framed house and accordingly must be first period. It seems to have
fallen through the cracks.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To me this could indicate a house built during a small span of time. Planked houses were not built much before 1700 and the latest ones I have found are around 1720.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Furthermore, the later examples have another distinguishing feature. This is the very end of first period and the houses are much less post medieval. The huge framing of the 17<sup>th</sup> century has disappeared as have the wide flat chamfers. The usual chamfer of the first period has been replaced by quirk beads on the summer beams and elsewhere. These are small and almost look as though they are the bead on a boxed frame of the second period but they aren’t. They are actually the small dressings on the edge of the actual beam. There are no lamb’s tongues or chamfer stops. This is the transition period from post medieval to second period Georgian. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">
Post Script!</span></i><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
I have since visited this West Gloucester house and am still pondering what I saw. I hit
a brick wall in searching the chain of title but will get back to that and hope
I get past the stumbling block.</span></i><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">In the middle years of the 20th century this house was a well known antiques shop called the "Redcoat". Old issues of Antiques Magazine regularly displayed ads for the Redcoat in West Gloucester. The restored house and shop were owned by the Buswells whose very impressive mansion was nearby if not on the same grounds.</span></i></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
The house has overhangs on both gable ends of the house. On the second floor
there are dramatic gunstock corner post and large braces as one would
expect. </span></i><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
The summer beams have small flat chamfers that were not terribly wide and ended with
tapered stops. After seeing them I would date them as belonging in the
period from 1715 to 1725.</span></i><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
What was most surprising was the small size of the rooms when we have been
accustomed to seeing large rooms in first period houses.</span></i><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
The chimney is large and square. The back to back fireplaces on the first
and second floor left a wide cavity between them. This is what is very
surprising, the likes of which I have never seen.</span></i></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
This house does not have the typical three run "captain's" staircase
to the second floor. The staircase goes straight up passing right through
the middle of the chimney in the space between the back to back fireplaces.
Surely this represents a change and rebuilding of the chimney and fireplaces
but lots of strange things happen to houses over several centuries. I
should know better than to be surprised!</span></i><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
Also, this house doesn't fit the usual formula but with gable overhangs,
plank framed construction and a decorated frame it meets the criterea for
a first period house in my opinion!</span></i><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></i><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">The information on this house and the research will be continued. There are lots of unanswered questions regarding this house and the last chapter in its history is yet to be written .</span></i></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
Many of the photographs of the Haskell house are courtesy of Jeff Crawford.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
Pru<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; line-height: 16.8667px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; line-height: 16.8667px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; line-height: 16.8667px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; line-height: 16.8667px;"> </span></span>prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-36892560440467736812016-12-09T06:43:00.000-08:002016-12-11T03:22:44.192-08:00WHICH IS IT? A HOUSE OR A HOME?<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
A MESSAGE FOR OWNERS OF ANTIQUE HOUSES AND THEIR REALTORS</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For nearly thirty years I was a Realtor selling antique and historic houses, some of them my own. I still research house histories and follow the real estate market. I pay attention to all the listings of antique houses. I have been a buyer, a seller and a Realtor. As a consequence I am rather opinionated and pretty critical of the way a house is marketed. There are mistakes that can turn off a potential buyer looking for an antique or an historic house. Often the salesperson representing the house has the best of intentions but has an incorrect perception of what is good in an old house and what is not so good; what to advertise and what not to advertise; what should be saved and what shouldn't be saved. <br />
<h2 style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 30px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1.1; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 20px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.weichert.com/MA/Northshore/Gloucester/Gallery/?maxpr=599&type=new" id="ctl00_BodyContent_SearchResultPreview1_LinkTop" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #23527c; outline-offset: -2px; outline: -webkit-focus-ring-color auto 5px;">New homes for sale </a></h2>
<div>
Here is a headline from today's local newspaper's Friday real estate section. Look in the real estate section of any newspaper and you will see a similar headlines. So what is wrong with it?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here is what is wrong. Homeowners or brokers are not in the business of selling homes. They are selling HOUSES.<br />
<br />
A home is what you create for yourself and your family when you live in a HOUSE. It is a <b>HOUSE </b>infused with your taste, your stuff, your treasures and all the things that make it a special place for you and your family. You start with a HOUSE and it becomes your home. Realtors are in the business of selling HOUSES. The new buyer will make it their home.<b> </b><i><b>Empty houses are not homes.</b> </i>It is not a home until you have lived there and tailored it to yourself or your family.<br />
<br />
Sometimes a seller, developer or broker is convinced that the word home, like hearth, depicts something to a potential buyer that makes the property sound more appealing. But to others is is annoyingly incorrect. When you sell your HOUSE it will become the new owner's home just as it had become yours. But for the purposes of the sale, it is simply a HOUSE!</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
When you have an antique house for sale there are certain things that will make a serious buyer cringe or even reject a house. Most Realtors and sellers are oblivious to these missteps in showing or advertising the property. Serious old house buyers are always wishing they could find a salesperson to speak their language. In the meantime many are politely frustrated.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Do not tout the gleaming hardwood floors! Why not? Hardwood floors usually suggest quality in a building. Right? That is usually true but the reason not to focus on hardwood floors is because real <i><b>antique houses didn't have hardwood floors</b></i>. They had wide pine floors and this is what a buyer of an antique house looks for so an ad for hardwood floors isn't going to help your sale.<br />
<br />
People tend to have high regard for the widest boards. In some instances the use of the widest boards was to cover the floor faster as we might use plywood today. In other houses the widest boards are in the attic and narrower in the important rooms downstairs. In the 19th century many of the wide board floors were intended to be covered with wall to wall ingrain patterned carpets. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGRdLE4Ncpu0aeaBuSXaX3vEGaq_jhW-DrIuD1WNC_Lnp39e_lrp3ehIsfhVknhPHunWvYeuqSboxIPyQh0HqogGXdYT9QsUHcLqG0M3zHsbK5mAOArdokoo1NoNxbVBrTj8WJqiAMPVo/s1600/ingrain+carpets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGRdLE4Ncpu0aeaBuSXaX3vEGaq_jhW-DrIuD1WNC_Lnp39e_lrp3ehIsfhVknhPHunWvYeuqSboxIPyQh0HqogGXdYT9QsUHcLqG0M3zHsbK5mAOArdokoo1NoNxbVBrTj8WJqiAMPVo/s640/ingrain+carpets.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Example of 19th century ingrain wall to wall carpet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The former occupant of my 1863 house long ago told me that the worst day of the year was the spring day when they pulled up the carpets and took them outside to be beaten. When returned they had to be tacked down again with all those little carpet tacks. If you have a 19th century house examine the edges of the best rooms. You may find plenty of evidence of tack holes from years of taking up and replacing the carpets.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Another error is calling the floorboards planks. A plank is a thick board, usually two inches thick. Most old houses have pine floors that are either worn thin or sanded thin and hardly meet any definition of a plank. Planks are thick boards and have nothing to do with the width of the boards.<i><b> A very wide board on the floor doesn't make it a plank.</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Don't say the house is all restored with exposed beams. Exposed beam ceilings, believe it or not, are not a good thing to advertise in many cases. The reason? It's because after about 1725 houses were very refined. They were not crude cabins and they were no longer post medieval. <b><i>They did not have exposed beams</i>.</b> If the house is a first period house built before 1725 then you DO want to promote the beams but there are never many houses of that age on the market and chances are the house you are selling is newer than circa 1725 or before. If the ceiling beams were originally exposed they will be chamfered and whitewashed or at least have a residue of old whitewash. So if you open a ceiling and all you see is brown bare wood stop right there. Cover it back up! A serious old house buyer does not want to see brown beams and boards over their head. This has become so commonplace that you may be surprised that I am saying this. Many people like the look but if you want an authentic restoration or wish to be a sensitive restorer you don't want to remove original fabric of the house by taking down the plaster ceilings.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindbxvcgLWqizNgGrCev7dMijwDlyBG0Igebjkbwl2W7ymD-yvxzWxV4IEY-f992aKKYimYHtwDe6FNji4AZRBPwhu33genu0YsUQ1mWi7PAEemEkVdvJw105btLLxVqPeAlAaw73JcDk/s1600/beamed+ceiling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindbxvcgLWqizNgGrCev7dMijwDlyBG0Igebjkbwl2W7ymD-yvxzWxV4IEY-f992aKKYimYHtwDe6FNji4AZRBPwhu33genu0YsUQ1mWi7PAEemEkVdvJw105btLLxVqPeAlAaw73JcDk/s320/beamed+ceiling.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The look of this exposed beam ceiling is popular but incorrect.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If the bricks around the fireplace are exposed or bricks exposed where the breast plate or over mantel should be, this will not be attractive to an old house buyer. It may look amazing to an untrained eye but, again, after 1725 it is the age of refinement and an easier life style than the days of the 17th century. Bricks and beams were hidden away and never visible.<i><b> Bricks surrounding the opening to the fireplace should be parged smooth and painted. Bricks exposed above the mantel or lintel should be enclosed.</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5GqMsRMNSrZdzekwLBRom1UZm6kZbDlQBTB80klGskJxv6uYhsu8AbkqxzDvDZPVX3VHTN_XFeCWuEEJJMlKH5jN6KVB46idyqrzQOdlHvUhukQs25MoAfGWT3hdKhc2HivdhvXVbO90/s1600/cooking+fireplace+undressed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5GqMsRMNSrZdzekwLBRom1UZm6kZbDlQBTB80klGskJxv6uYhsu8AbkqxzDvDZPVX3VHTN_XFeCWuEEJJMlKH5jN6KVB46idyqrzQOdlHvUhukQs25MoAfGWT3hdKhc2HivdhvXVbO90/s400/cooking+fireplace+undressed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This cooking fireplace has been "undressed". This treatment looks impressive<br />
but not appreciated by a serious old house expert! It screams to be covered up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Don't brag about all of the stripped paint on the woodwork. Woodwork was painted as soon as the homeowner could afford it. <i> <b>Miles of brown woodwork and paneling is not attractive and it is not correct.</b></i> In fact, it is boring. Pine that has been stripped invariably leaves paint residue in its pores (the grain) and screams to be repainted. Once in a while you might come across paneling or sheathing that has never been painted but that is truly rare. There are styles and periods of houses where unpainted paneling might be correct but not in the typical 18th century house in New England.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXmFQbaJfBV51sByZO3TWepjDKunADdp0LNZCQF4w3p6ambDTOcMYIekNJ7OI3hxujPXgBEsFN2rzbVvnHRipvU9hMeU4KOqE5H1aE8HOkLX7KYAeCn34NsxzjTt_uyU2Yy-hkVqOnJhw/s1600/stripped+paneling.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXmFQbaJfBV51sByZO3TWepjDKunADdp0LNZCQF4w3p6ambDTOcMYIekNJ7OI3hxujPXgBEsFN2rzbVvnHRipvU9hMeU4KOqE5H1aE8HOkLX7KYAeCn34NsxzjTt_uyU2Yy-hkVqOnJhw/s320/stripped+paneling.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paneling for sale. Shows evidence of being stripped of paint.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Once I listed a beautiful Federal house built around 1808. The homeowner had spent about 18 years stripping all of the paint in the three story house including the louvered pocket shutters at the windows. (By the way, they are not Indian shutters. No Indians were lurking around our cities in 1800) She stripped paint every day while her husband was at work. This house was a very fancy house but later owners have come and gone and no one has ever had the heart to paint the woodwork so painstakingly stripped by Julie with Red Devil paint stripper. What a pity. A later owner then re- clapboarded the house and left the outside unpainted just like the inside. Someday I hope a new owner will bring out the Federal beauty of this great house with paint in lovely soft Federal colors.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I showed this house early on in my real estate career to an extremely knowledgeable buyer. I was sure he would appreciate the beautiful detail of this house including the graceful spiral staircase that soared to the third floor. His comment after the showing was, "Pru, find us a house that hasn't been scraped. Even the history of the original paint colors as been obliterated". He was more interested in the old abandoned cemetery in the back yard. A lesson learned!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If there is a cooking fireplace never say that the house has a Dutch oven. <b> <i>A Dutch oven is an iron pot for cooking just as today a big kettle is called a Dutch oven and not a part of the house</i>.</b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9BQUvXIbtF525t0iK0vOLq7ZxleAgK7qpcNBmggYdqq9YFZ6uv0VXqVB4PkgUFuYNBnCAIpSEJd3-Qnn5FQSHr3WE4ursSLD7ZelCB3RD7Dso_GWn4avE3BfHU69rLO4zinAy22F0BDc/s1600/fire+in+bake+oven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9BQUvXIbtF525t0iK0vOLq7ZxleAgK7qpcNBmggYdqq9YFZ6uv0VXqVB4PkgUFuYNBnCAIpSEJd3-Qnn5FQSHr3WE4ursSLD7ZelCB3RD7Dso_GWn4avE3BfHU69rLO4zinAy22F0BDc/s640/fire+in+bake+oven.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting the oven ready for baking<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Almost any day of the week I can find an ad for a house with a Dutch oven. Just call it a bake oven. Period.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOwXwkWiUjQi8JfICC2NobiUmR0PQDwRMIIjawrAjxHDBPjzopNLknk3IUSWXyYlvyMJQdsl3w8ZsH092-gK80DS_bCMVM1Xc3-KPgtJY8nQx8OZW2V9VVgYAenDoKtiGzwWRVqVFreR8/s1600/Dutch+oven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOwXwkWiUjQi8JfICC2NobiUmR0PQDwRMIIjawrAjxHDBPjzopNLknk3IUSWXyYlvyMJQdsl3w8ZsH092-gK80DS_bCMVM1Xc3-KPgtJY8nQx8OZW2V9VVgYAenDoKtiGzwWRVqVFreR8/s320/Dutch+oven.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iron Dutch Oven<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Talking about borning rooms or birthing rooms is just plain corny and inventions of the colonial revival period</span><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> and has nothing to do with the the period vocabulary of the antique house. The same goes for the term</span></span><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> keeping room which is widely used. I'm not sure where this comes from but I have been </span></span><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">researching old houses period and reading old inventories for at least forty years and I have neve</span></span><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">r seen the term in an old document. Only once I saw "keeping room" on an old house plan and it was </span></span><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">in reference to a sitting room in the front of a circa 1800 house. Therefore, I never use that </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-align: center;">word</span><span style="line-height: 18.4px;">.</span></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioRzkZt0fWdQrWsCllINN_ybf_V10Y703-vPkF8Q_j8TEUVreQl_X2JI27UAfR9NLikh06Y0wuxQp8dPjshgRvngCCKS_PtCsAXTW8FegTs-jjxt1gW_JlTZC3XAP5T3Y8gnI7riYWpzY/s1600/Bake+oven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioRzkZt0fWdQrWsCllINN_ybf_V10Y703-vPkF8Q_j8TEUVreQl_X2JI27UAfR9NLikh06Y0wuxQp8dPjshgRvngCCKS_PtCsAXTW8FegTs-jjxt1gW_JlTZC3XAP5T3Y8gnI7riYWpzY/s1600/Bake+oven.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside of bake oven, looks like a beehive.<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
Once I was dealing with an expert buyer. As we mounted the stairs to the attic with my buyer following behind me I was aware that a section of the attic floor was plywood. How did I know? I knew that because I was one of the restorers who had made the decision to steal a few boards from the attic because we couldn't find more old wood for a repair on the first floor! In fact it was the red house at the top of this page! Thirty five years ago that was the thing to do and I didn't know any better back then. As I approached the top of the attic stairs the buyer following behind me said, "Pru, don't you just hate it when people take up the attic floor to use elsewhere in the house?" Ouch! Talk about being chagrined especially since he knew that I had been one of the restorers of the house. That was a long time ago and I hope my advice to others since that time who were about to make the same mistake has saved a couple of attic floors. <i> <b>Don't borrow from one part of the house to use in another part of the house.</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Don't call the house restored if it has replacement windows or siding. This is a sign of renovating with nothing to do with restoration. Houses with interior walls that have been removed are not restored either. They are remodeled or re- muddled. Both are insensitive.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
One last piece of advise is when showing a house to its best advantage I prefer to take a potential buyer in through the front door. Sometimes the door has hardly been opened in years but I still want to introduce the house from the front. Many old houses have additions and ells and ramble on in the rear which can easily confuse a buyer. Entering by the front door usually makes more sense and the layout of the house becomes clearer and the house seems to flows better. It is very easy to become confused if entering from a rear door. I like to start at the front door with a front hall and a staircase, the living room or parlor, the dining room and continue on toward the kitchen and the back of the house. Entering through an old woodshed or mud room doesn't contribute toward a favorable first impression anyway.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I understand that every real estate professional is not going to be an expert in architecture or period houses but there are a few basics that can prevent a Realtor from unknowingly embarrassing themselves. Serious old house buyers just shake their heads and wring their hands at the lack of knowledge exhibited by the typical broker/salesperson.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Anyone in sales needs to know their product whether it is pots and pans or automobiles. Only in the real estate industry are they trained to deal with contracts, legalities, and myriads of paper work but many have no clue about the house they are representing. Few so-called real estate professionals know their product adequately.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Years ago before I was in real estate I saw a fuzzy photo in the newspaper ad for a three story house. I called the listing broker and asked about the age or style of the house. Was it a three story Federal I asked? Her answer was that it was really "no style". I got nowhere with her but I thought I could discern a big chimney. I persevered, calling another broker who assured me that it was in fact a three story Federal, circa 1800, with big chimneys encompassing many fireplaces.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We bought the house...through the second broker.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you are a seller and you suspect that your antique house isn't being represented enthusiastically try to find someone in you area that will show more interest in learning about your house and representing it with a positive outlook. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Condition may effect the price tag but condition does not effect the historical value. A dilapidated house has value, can be important architecturally or historically and needs a broker/ salesperson who is excited about it. An old house can be very exciting regardless of condition. <b> </b><i><b>Don't judge a house by the condition</b>.</i> Look at it carefully. A neglected house my be wonderfully intact. A house in great condition is more apt to have been stripped of its original detail and fabric than a rundown old house that has been left alone and left with integrity. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A beat up old house can be an exciting, untouched diamond in the rough. And that's a fact!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
These days I am a died-in-the wool preservationist on a rant. We are losing our architectural heritage at an alarming rate and I will do what I can to call attention to the loss, to educate and do my part to reverse this trend.<br />
<br />
This morning on the Internet I read about a house in jeopardy and slated for demolition. Someone responded with the most ignorant comment yet. This was the remark.<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #2f2f2f; font-family: "Poynter Serif RE", Georgia, serif; font-size: 14.4px;"><i><b>“There aren’t many rules and regulations on the book about what to do when an old house is too old"</b></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
In my imagination I would like to say to this person, "Fix it, restore it, preserve it or go to jail!"<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
But what I say to those of you out there who care about our architectural legacy and built environment, "<i><b>Get on board! Get involved, and speak up."</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Thanks for bearing with me and reading these comments which are not only important to me but to others who want to save our architectural heritage.<br />
<br />
Pru<br />
<br />
PS Here is an afterthought that should have been included above .<br />
<br />
The word is hearth. Many people think that hearth and fireplace are one and the same. They are not. If you say you have a hearth (pronounced harth) you'd better have a fireplace to go with it because the hearth is the floor of the fireplace. You build a fire on the hearth but it is inside the fireplace and extending out into the room for safety. A house with three hearths would look pretty funny if it didn't have three fireplaces to go with them. In fact, it would be impossible to have a hearth if there wasn't an associated fireplace.<br />
<br />
So these two words, hearth and fireplace, are not interchangeable. They go hand in hand but in describing a house the word fireplace should be used. There is little reason to talk about the hearth unless you say the cat was lying on the hearth to keep warm or you are putting the logs on the hearth before you start the fire in the fireplace.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696582391587199435.post-2924609661676660842016-12-01T08:03:00.000-08:002016-12-18T04:07:45.433-08:00FROM DOGTOWN ON CAPE ANN TO ST. PETERSBURG IN RUSSIA<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">THE REMARKABLE LIFE OF NANCY GARDNER PRINCE</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">1799-1859</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">When my friend, Lise Breen, introduced me to this story I couldn't believe that I had never heard of Nancy Gardner Prince. Lise is Gloucester's undisputed authority on blacks, slaves, slave traders, captains of slave ships and abolitionists on Boston's North Shore. She is an extraordinary researcher and it was she who called my attention to this almost forgotten story. To call this story amazing is an understatement. My version will be very condensed by necessity. Here are only the basics.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJYE-UKXO65Vn3k3DR_RZP-2yaegO4NKDAtR_jOlpCj3u5UrqWFGEPo39e-M88wSTI6NAHx9UDfaIVpkGuMJNIIrWjAKqoRsTiI0kcBtgowpPfDCtZyuDlNbunn1W5gFn9IDwiV2Kd8eo/s1600/Nancy+Prince+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJYE-UKXO65Vn3k3DR_RZP-2yaegO4NKDAtR_jOlpCj3u5UrqWFGEPo39e-M88wSTI6NAHx9UDfaIVpkGuMJNIIrWjAKqoRsTiI0kcBtgowpPfDCtZyuDlNbunn1W5gFn9IDwiV2Kd8eo/s640/Nancy+Prince+cover.jpg" width="458" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Nancy Gardner Prince, a free black girl, was born in Newburyport in 1799. Her father was Thomas Gardner, a mariner from Nantucket who died when Nancy was a baby. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Nancy's mother was born in Gloucester, the daughter of Tobias Wornton who was called "Backus" Backus was elderly and frightening in appearance. Babson's history of Gloucester says that he lived in the neighborhood around what today is Prospect Street perhaps near where Our Lady of the Good Voyage is located. A number of black families lived in this vicinity. Mothers would threaten to take their children to Backus for punishment if they misbehaved because he would frighten them. This threat was enough to end their mischief.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Backus, in his own words, was "stolen" from Africa when young and was a slave of Winthrop Sargent, father of Judith Sargent Murray. He served in the Revolution at Bunker hill. His wife, Nancy's grandmother, was a native American and worked for the Parsons family but apparently was deceased before Nancy's widowed mother returned to Gloucester. Backus was very active in the Congregational Church and well respected. He took Nancy to church and had a positive influence on his young granddaughter.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Nancy's mother brought her two children with her when she returned to Gloucester as a widow, soon remarried and had six more children. Her new husband's name was Money Vose. He, too, died leaving his wife with all of these children, the youngest only six weeks old.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">After his death Nancy's mother fell apart and the family was in</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">desperate straights. Things were so bad for this family that Nancy and her younger siblings picked berries in Dogtown* and sold them in Gloucester to support the family. One of her brothers, George, caught fish in the harbor to help them survive. It is painful to think of the hardship this family endured with a mother who was emotionally and physically incapacitated with no father or adult breadwinner.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh1am1ViP9oEhzcOcVX4mshaSS66Ub9N9dBfaqRexz8U-NZ4k0SWLKB40Br7VSGVHNyIC9Sza6halTsTsPaJJ1rIbXuAbYEIAtfgJycfntwT37cyNq-Roc9t04PdmkqycH4EzntuOxcrk/s1600/Dogtown+road.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="409" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh1am1ViP9oEhzcOcVX4mshaSS66Ub9N9dBfaqRexz8U-NZ4k0SWLKB40Br7VSGVHNyIC9Sza6halTsTsPaJJ1rIbXuAbYEIAtfgJycfntwT37cyNq-Roc9t04PdmkqycH4EzntuOxcrk/s640/Dogtown+road.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">The old road from Gloucester up into Dogtown</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">George vanished and sadly was presumed drowned. The family was terribly upset but in three weeks he returned. He had gone to sea on a voyage. His pay was four feet of wood and three dollars.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Nancy and her brother heard of jobs for a girl and a boy in Essex, eight miles from home. They went there on foot. After working there Nancy moved on to Salem in 1814. From Salem she went to Boston to look for her sister who had gone there to work as a domestic. She found her sister in a brothel and rescued her. Nancy worked in various households still supporting the family in Gloucester and finding homes in which to place the younger children.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Back in Gloucester their mother married again, this time to a man who contributed nothing and expected to be supported by the children.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">After years of trying to support and oversee the family Nancy married Nero Prince, a free black who had recently arrived home to Boston from Russia. They married in Salem in 1824. It is interesting to note the report that they were married in Russian costumes. Hall was the founder of Prince Hall Freemasonry in Boston. Nancy had met him years previously possibly in Gloucester as an acquaintance of the Daltons, a prominent black family in Gloucester and Boston.. Shortly after their marriage they left for Russia on the ship Romulus with Capt. Epes Sargent. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUn5oiW4zsWJDdTtzjNZLlxieUr_HLnKIIPPbxYmx2YY-fY32g53xZ4j2BPYTW_kq6mQ9n2ewSIhLoaQLHdVxndVU3xFmmDIjngy0R6WjjinpMbGgFP-4y6LiRF8fOtf0QjpqrfIMRS3w/s1600/Romulus%252C+Capt+Sargent.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUn5oiW4zsWJDdTtzjNZLlxieUr_HLnKIIPPbxYmx2YY-fY32g53xZ4j2BPYTW_kq6mQ9n2ewSIhLoaQLHdVxndVU3xFmmDIjngy0R6WjjinpMbGgFP-4y6LiRF8fOtf0QjpqrfIMRS3w/s640/Romulus%252C+Capt+Sargent.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">From Salem Gazette, 1824, Genealogy Bank, Courtesy of Lise Breen</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After stops in Elsinore and Copenhagan in Denmark where they spent twelve days they sailed for St. Petersburg, Russia.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioycJy00bekX3nFHYgAsTf4pC7at7NCMBye2Hg-rQSeBUMj1QD-z4ldX8eslgY-Q2PG9Cvg_6ALPzHmoS5CtURl_2NupLGpSkOdJ_vA-BgOo7hHImWcJBZeaWa_ZOAsQc3cAPt3GuAIFA/s1600/Nancy+Gardner+Prince+%252C+Nero+Prince%252C+Thomas+Paul+3161824.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioycJy00bekX3nFHYgAsTf4pC7at7NCMBye2Hg-rQSeBUMj1QD-z4ldX8eslgY-Q2PG9Cvg_6ALPzHmoS5CtURl_2NupLGpSkOdJ_vA-BgOo7hHImWcJBZeaWa_ZOAsQc3cAPt3GuAIFA/s640/Nancy+Gardner+Prince+%252C+Nero+Prince%252C+Thomas+Paul+3161824.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Marriage notice, Genealogy Bank, Courtesy of Lise Breen</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Nero Prince was born in Marlboro, MA and first sailed to Russia in 1810 with Capt. Theodore Stanwood of Gloucester. After yet another voyage to Russia, he served a noble lady of the court and later was a footman to the Czar.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3LaNN7LjvIH6aJmdTwm83pPwxLggHGBa01uz-f-jaVWX4gRVlgMg5KLbI__PhDWVH3vydJFrbokLGoiCot1NP8QZpNnauJeEL-4lfulZuQ_W_ZWB4KSWQW79s-AfMLHW12frQStAN6BI/s1600/czar+AlexanderI.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3LaNN7LjvIH6aJmdTwm83pPwxLggHGBa01uz-f-jaVWX4gRVlgMg5KLbI__PhDWVH3vydJFrbokLGoiCot1NP8QZpNnauJeEL-4lfulZuQ_W_ZWB4KSWQW79s-AfMLHW12frQStAN6BI/s400/czar+AlexanderI.bmp" width="292" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alexander 1 of Russia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">In St. Petersburg Nancy was taken to a palace and was presented to Emperor Alexander I who was on the throne when she met him. He took her to meet Empress Elizabeth. Imagine how Nancy must have felt, transported from her life of hardship into this royal setting.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZVgD8eOvJ_zytLRpsPYOkRk1XoQfonSjlqYUJAXSA8VkiT-cjTrWooQxfuS6wXzF9DEbEan77J0x8ANBZwXBq4rtvYZqwQPv7HRphAyOcMWF0niMqIgY5woD_xZT62ZuaNB2gZ9TxjoU/s1600/Empress+Elizabeth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZVgD8eOvJ_zytLRpsPYOkRk1XoQfonSjlqYUJAXSA8VkiT-cjTrWooQxfuS6wXzF9DEbEan77J0x8ANBZwXBq4rtvYZqwQPv7HRphAyOcMWF0niMqIgY5woD_xZT62ZuaNB2gZ9TxjoU/s400/Empress+Elizabeth.jpg" width="322" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Empress Elizabeth of Russia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Life in St. Petersburg was colorful and dramatic. Always resourceful and an accomplished seamstress, Nancy went into business making elegant baby clothes for royalty, exquisitely crafted in French and English styles. She even employed others </span><span style="font-size: large;">in this occupation. There was no discrimination in Russia and their life was full of activities and experiences. Many holidays were celebrated. It was a far cry from her life in New England!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">But the cold climate did not agree with Nancy and after 9 1/2 years she departed St. Petersburg without her husband with the expectation that he would follow shortly. She never saw him again. Nero Prince died in 1833 without returning to Boston.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyMzTbKNX6gBmZ4mHVlcRe6Z-Suo169TTC0uuUhg2Gp67Xwt1iOMayeH2NiQJW6kMWLm_bVEfKHTUVppAj6s7TctUrNwzL8OKJ96iOtVyxUPofQyFS9et8o_Kcazyz4SbfUGV-RyvOKA/s1600/Winter+palace%252C+St.+Petersburg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyMzTbKNX6gBmZ4mHVlcRe6Z-Suo169TTC0uuUhg2Gp67Xwt1iOMayeH2NiQJW6kMWLm_bVEfKHTUVppAj6s7TctUrNwzL8OKJ96iOtVyxUPofQyFS9et8o_Kcazyz4SbfUGV-RyvOKA/s640/Winter+palace%252C+St.+Petersburg.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">The enormous Winter Palace occupied by the Czar and Empress</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Nancy Prince always had a concern for children, especially her siblings. She had no children of her own. She held deep religious convictions apparently acquired from Backus, her grandfather. She supported the anti-slavery movement. The remainder of her life was devoted to these missions, the anti-slavery movement and the welfare of children; so important to her that it involved several trips to Jamaica and the West Indies. In Kingston, Jamaica she was an activist for children and here helped establish an orphanage.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">Returning to America intending to raise more money for a school. she sailed to Boston and then to Philadelphia where she found Dr. Fitz William Sargent </span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSqikQTQwom0qS1LpKyF4Py3cUJLICCl6uycRwGXJU9PACXDbXq4HezLU_Ni03RCQf14TLSXnBOiMbk1YzDBjxmkDifZTuKlTmH-I2Z83tyIe3pVKIJhLVhaHqFn_eRRf50w0PP09OENw/s1600/Fitzwilliam+Sargent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSqikQTQwom0qS1LpKyF4Py3cUJLICCl6uycRwGXJU9PACXDbXq4HezLU_Ni03RCQf14TLSXnBOiMbk1YzDBjxmkDifZTuKlTmH-I2Z83tyIe3pVKIJhLVhaHqFn_eRRf50w0PP09OENw/s400/Fitzwilliam+Sargent.jpg" width="336" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Fitz William Sargent by his son, John Singer Sargent</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;">formerly of Gloucester and father of John Singer Sargent, the painter. In Philadelphia she also met Lucretia Mott, a Quaker, who was an activist in the anti-slavery movement.</span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN6_4RZnmvH3nyzGYrswJCS1Jo_9qUf_OX1rDP2Y93ZR7enjGdaeELKbWomyhifo1L8exwa7Z38sKXVl0Zl_wfULb14EFxHQOPWchrCOXknvBWXW7d5r0jNY40YeJa5Q4-F08lk-lPSfk/s1600/Lucretia+Mott.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN6_4RZnmvH3nyzGYrswJCS1Jo_9qUf_OX1rDP2Y93ZR7enjGdaeELKbWomyhifo1L8exwa7Z38sKXVl0Zl_wfULb14EFxHQOPWchrCOXknvBWXW7d5r0jNY40YeJa5Q4-F08lk-lPSfk/s320/Lucretia+Mott.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Abolitionist Lucretia Mott</span><br />
<div style="font-size: 12.8px;">
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />Then back she went to Jamaica where again she continued to follow her passions and her pursuits.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Finally, back once more to Boston Nancy undertook to write her autobiography in </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">1850. She hoped that by writing her autobiography she could sell her books and thereby contribute to her efforts by raising money for her causes. </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFPN_OmdAPXEvfYb-xKgKEilUSWjWzcdzl8uEWlsjg5XHrxcDzhw3uev56YrHQjRgVxnuCYdhD4jc49QNKxdsy28AF6FFeTj5dU5i83ON8qhyNvT9opQOf876HCh57DxcCPF8QszjbatI/s1600/Nancy+Prince+Glou.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFPN_OmdAPXEvfYb-xKgKEilUSWjWzcdzl8uEWlsjg5XHrxcDzhw3uev56YrHQjRgVxnuCYdhD4jc49QNKxdsy28AF6FFeTj5dU5i83ON8qhyNvT9opQOf876HCh57DxcCPF8QszjbatI/s640/Nancy+Prince+Glou.png" width="635" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Gloucester Telegraph, Genealogy Bank, Courtesy of Lise Breen</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;">Nancy Gardner Prince died in Boston in 1859. She was 60 years old. Her cause of death was listed as dropsy. That old fashioned term usually meant edema caused by congestive heart failure. She had had a full but hard life. Upon her death her parents were reported to be Jerome and Mary Vose but this contradicts what Nancy herself had already published in her </span><span style="font-size: large;">autobiography and seems to be an error.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Just think about this story. She was raised in the poorest conditions in Newburyport, then Gloucester. Her life was a life of constant struggle and discomforts. In her younger days she endured cruel employers. Money Vose was an often cruel stepfather. She was constantly worried about her siblings. Think of the financial burden she shouldered, the long walks to Salem and then to Boston in bad weather suffering frostbite in an effort to help feed her mother and siblings. Just think of young Nancy in the summer in Dogtown where she picked blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and whortleberries to peddle in Gloucester for money to feed the family. Then imagine the improbability of finding herself in St. Petersburg, Russia being presented to the czar sitting on his throne! Consider the sights she saw; palaces in Russia, the cities of Europe she visited then living in the tropics with long ocean voyages back and forth. It is hard to get one's head around her story. Imagine how she must have felt.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">This relatively unknown story rivals "Pygmalion" ("My Fair Lady") but unlike Pygmalion this story is not fiction. As the old saying goes, "You could not make this up." Well, yes, I guess you could but this is a true story and not made up. Every time I think of the contrast between her Cape Ann roots and the palaces of St. Petersburg and the adjustment between the two it never ceases to impress me; not to mention life in Kingston, Jamaica and the tropics. Just the climate change between all of these places would be unsettling in itself.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The story of her good deeds is a long story. This is an extremely condensed account and only an outline of the high points of her life.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">She was a most resilient lady. That this little girl of Cape Ann with so many strikes against her; who spent her summer days in Dogtown picking berries to survive only to find herself in St. Petersburg, Russia in an audience with the czar defies credibility. Not to mention that as a poor black widow traveling to the tropics alone to continue her good deeds confounds the imagination.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">As you can tell I have been impressed, even flabbergasted, by this story of a Gloucester heroine whose name I had never heard.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks to Lise Breen for sharing this story with me as well as for the newspaper notices she uncovered in her search.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">*Dogtown is a vast area of moors and outcroppings of rock that was the scene of an early settlement on Cape Ann. It was gradually abandoned as more settlers moved to the area around the harbor when fishing increased and farming waned. There are many stories of some of its remaining inhabitants, often women, who were destitute. They lived there in extreme poverty with their dogs and this is the basis for the profound fascination for this wild, deserted place, haunted by tales of those who lived there. Only the cellar holes remain, the last reminder of their existence.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
prudence fishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01940285046413262096noreply@blogger.com3