Historic Homes Magazine Fall 2024

Page 1


ast Look

Sheila M. Belanger wner/Editor/Publisher/Photographer Dennis Belanger

Design andchoice Layout ditor's Matt Belanger Director of Digital and Social Media

nt www.historichomesmagazine.com

ne: www.historichomesmagazine.com

letter: www.historichomesmagaine.com

Media: gram: .instagram.com/historichomesmagazine

ook: .facebook.com/historichomesmagazine

Tube: .youtube.com/@historichomesmagazine

Questions ontact@historichomesmagazine.com 860-413-2361

toric Homes Magazine, Fall 2024 © by Historic Home Magazine All rights erved. Permission to reprint or quote erpts granted by written request only. Printed in USA


Fall is visiting pumpkin patches and the many countryside farm stands. The fall season is synonymous with pumpkin picking and visiting local farm stands filled with pumpkins, gourds, cornstalks, and chrysanthemums. These farm stands not only offer seasonal produce but also create a vibrant community atmosphere. Where is your happy place in the Fall? Celebrating the autumn season offers a plethora of delightful experiences, particularly in charming locations like Redding, Connecticut. This area is known for its rich history and stunning natural beauty, making it a perfect backdrop for fall festivities. A visit to the David Ogden House in Fairfield, Connecticut (Page 36) in late Autumn provided us with an exceptional 18th-century farmhouse. This home survived the burning of Fairfield during the British invasion, allowing visitors to appreciate its historical significance and the lifestyle of typical families from that era. Colonial style always finds its footing in the past. We were thrilled to visit the home of Food Network star Nancy Fuller (Page 4), showcasing her Dutch colonial residence in upstate New York. The journey to her home is marked by picturesque barns and outbuildings, embodying the charm of the countryside. As we drove up to her house and her winding driveway, we were greeted by an array of barns and outbuildings - my one weakness! The pieces you collect in your home tell a story. As we visit these historic homes, we are always amazed by how many stories we get to tell of the homeowners, their pieces, and their lovely homes. So sit back and enjoy our five highlighted home tours from across New England. As always, thank you for your support of our magazine. I hope you all have an amazing Autumn and get to enjoy the leaves falling and visiting farm stands and orchards along the way. Best, Sheila



HHM Top Pics


on Locust Dale Farm Conyn-Van Rens selaer Homestead


on Locust Dale Farm Conyn-Van Rens selaer Homestead


THE DE GANG


THE DE GANG


SOUTH PARLOR

The couple purchased the property in the early 2000s, drawn by its rich as a pre-revolutionary Dutch colonial home dating back to 1766. Their n for preserving history and their love for antiques played a crucial role in ticulous restoration process, which took several years. has expressed her fondness for the home's historical elements, such as the d original 17th-century beams and the antique chandelier in the South which add to the charm of the historic home. She values the history and n that the home instills in her year after year, indicating that the emotional tion to the property was a significant motivator in their restoration

gh their restoration, they aimed not only to preserve the architectural y of the home but also to create a warm and inviting space that reflects ersonal style and culinary lifestyle. 's love of antiques is prevalent throughout her home and she has a keen r early american decorating. Nancy is famous for her Food Network on show "Farmhouse Rules", "fresh is best", "chop chop in the pot, no r fuss".


SOUTH PARLOR

beauty. The couple purchased the property in the early 2000s, drawn by its rich history as a pre-revolutionary Dutch colonial home dating back to 1766. Their passion for preserving history and their love for antiques played a crucial role in the meticulous restoration process, which took several years. Nancy has expressed her fondness for the home's historical elements, such as the exposed original 17th-century beams and the antique chandelier in the South Parlor, which add to the charm of the historic home. She values the history and passion that the home instills in her year after year, indicating that the emotional connection to the property was a significant motivator in their restoration efforts. Through their restoration, they aimed not only to preserve the architectural integrity of the home but also to create a warm and inviting space that reflects their personal style and culinary lifestyle. Nancy's love of antiques is prevalent throughout her home and she has a keen eye for early american decorating. Nancy is famous for her Food Network television show "Farmhouse Rules", "fresh is best", "chop chop in the pot, no frills or fuss".



DELFT TILES

ak g whether a R e antique s u r g or e nmodern, c e i nareIinstantly n t e r irecognisable. ors pictures of everydayM life, thei n tiles, Unlike many other tile traditions, the appeal lies in their individuality: almost anything can be represented on a Delft tile, from epic mythological depictions of gods to bawdy scenes. Sandwiched between the port of Rotterdam and the coastal city of The Hague, Delft is a relatively small town now, but in the seventeenth century, at the height of the Dutch Golden Age, it was brimming with importance. Around the city the Netherlands at large was reaching the height of its powers, dominating European trade, setting up an outpost in Japan and founding universities. The invention of Delft pottery in the mid-1600s was a response to the popularity of Chinese blue and white porcelain, the technique for which would not be mastered in Europe until the beginning of the eighteenth century. Potters around the Netherlands had already begun developing the art of tin-glazed earthenware to mimic the glossy white surface of porcelain, but in the 1640s and fifties it was Delft potters who started to use personal monograms and factory marks, and the tiles became works of art in their own right. The trend for Delftware had already spread to Britain, where the new technique of transfer printing allowed for Delft-style tiles to be mass produced, some with uniform designs. The pictorial representations on Delft tiles imitated the patterns and images on Chinese porcelain, which had been imported in great quantities via the activities of the Dutch East India Company. However they soon started to incorporate scenes from Dutch life - farmer workers, windmills, tulips and sailing ships characteristic of the local landscape – alongside images of everything from biblical stories, mythological creatures. One antique tile dealer recently had a tile from 1650 for sale that featured a merman wearing a top hat. As wealth spread among the merchants of the Netherlands, the glazed Delft tiles were increasingly popular for fireplaces and damp, smoky rooms like kitchens, where they could be easily cleaned. Their appeal was widespread, from moderately wealthy middle-class houses who might have bought very simply decorated tiles or even factory seconds, to aristocratic families commissioning vast tiled rooms. Some of the great houses of Europe from the eighteenth century have bathrooms, swimming pools and kitchens covered in Delft tiles, sometimes in spectacular decorative panels, like the Chateau de Rambouillet in Île-de-France, once owned by Louis XVI, or the Schloss Nymphenburg in Munich, where you might have caught the extravagantly bewigged Maximilian II Emanuel, Elector of Bavaria, frolicking in his newly built, entirely Delft-lined swimming pool after being defeated at the Battle of Blenheim." Ultimately, Delft Tile history reaches deep but artistically, the question should be asked, "Why Delft Tile?". From a visual perspective, Delft Tiles carry depth in terms of viewing them up close and further back. This near and far music - as it's called in the art world, holds incredible artistic power. Gazing upon Delft Tiles up close, one is drawn into the details of the imagery. Stories unfold, one can hear children laughing as they play with hand made wooden toys or flying kites, ships are sent to distant lands and return with exotic spices and fabrics, women and men bustling about doing daily chores that made up a 17th day in Amsterdam. As one is busy at task cooking in one's kitchen, glancing at a Delft Tile back splash could mean the difference between chopping garlic stressing about life in 2020, or imagining idyllic scenes of those who have lived more simply in the past. Stories are a refuge and perhaps these near music novelettes that present in each tile provoked a smile in the 17th Century from a pauper's wife baking bread or a King in his bath. They are charming images that bring joy. The far music of Delft Tile - which simply means what one sees when one stands back and views these tiles from a distance, are extraordinary. Let's begin with the color and reflective quality of Delft Tiles. Delft Tiles are hand painted using glaze that is fired in kilns. The glaze used is typically a gloss glaze, so once the Delft Tiles are done firing, the end result is a smooth reflective surface. On a kitchen back splash, these Delft Tiles will reflect and glimmer with light from sun beaming in from a kitchen window or a light overhead. It will be an uplifting experience. Finally, Delft Tiles with their far music are simply designs of geometric patterns. These decorative wall tiles that fill bathroom walls, fireplace surrounds and kitchen backsplashes are resplendent to the eye and excite the mind. Humans love patterns. Why, I often ask myself? This could begin a spiritual contemplation of the Universe - and how life itself begins with a pattern that is fractalized - but that is another conversation! These may be some reasons as to why Delft Tiles are making a come back within the interior design world. However, I have a further thought. For a good decade - decor has been running the gamut, from glamours sleek walls of marble and quartzite to classic subway tiles to intricate mosaics. I believe within these past 10 years, Delft Tiles were placed aside for more modern decorative wall tiles. However...I see a shift. This shift I believe has been inspired by a resurgence of the Classic English Cottage interior or the Shaker Interior. These interiors embrace historic design, appealing to many people. These interiors also implement consistently reclaimed materials like reclaimed terra cotta tiles, antique limestone flooring and reclaimed hardwood floors. Looking to the past, it is of no coincidence that Delft Tiles are making their mark again - for they have been paired with these reclaimed materials for centuries. However, eclectic interiors where personal attributions define extraordinary spaces make using Delft Tiles completely intriguing. Mixing centuries is a thing - a wonderful concept that brings together historical concepts with one's own personality. It is my hope, at the end of the day, that interior design continues to be more personalized and that historically whimsical Delft Tiles continue to find their place, spreading joy and smile within one's home. Courtesy Emmi Micallef


NORTH PARLOR


NORTH PARLOR


Dutch Jambless Hearth


distinctive feature commonly found in these residences. Unlike English-style fireplaces, which are characterized by their brick side walls known as "jambs" that create a firebox, jambless fireplaces are designed with expansive, open hearths made of red terracotta tiles. These hearths extend from the rear wall into the living space, complemented by a substantial hood that gently channels smoke upward into a chimney supported directly by the anchor beams in the attic above. Frequently, the white plaster back walls of these fireplaces are embellished with rows of imported Dutch tiles, either in blue and white or mulberry and white patterns.


THE STONE HOUSE


THE STONE HOUSE




THE SOUTH CHAMBER


THE SOUTH CHAMBER


The Water Closet


The Water Closet


the pot"


the pot"




as over two centuries of life lived on m. What I love most about my home

ancy Fuller's udson Valley armhouse is now on e market!

eep history and the passion that it tact: within me, year after year, as I nyet Canother Barbato steward of this historic y. Our home is warm and welcoming w.johncbarbato.com s served our huge family well for ears. The information. child that swung on the tree more or the first time is still swinging many

ter. The fascination of the creek still he then toddlers who are now college k every time they visit.” Nancy Fuller


home has over two centuries of life lived on the farm. What I love most about my home is the deep history and the passion that it instills within me, year after year, as I become yet another steward of this historic property. Our home is warm and welcoming and has served our huge family well for many years. The child that swung on the tree swing for the first time is still swinging many years later. The fascination of the creek still draws the then toddlers who are now college kids back every time they visit.” Nancy Fuller

Nancy Fuller's Hudson Valley Farmhouse is now on the market! Contact: John C Barbato www.johncbarbato.com for more information.


he interior exterior

ment dationand made loft of space. mortar The limestone first floor with features a water a central tablepassage above.flanked The rlors r design on either consistsside, of four withcourses a door of at brick the back topped of the by hall a fifth leading course to a olded that brick. faces the Thissouth section elevation of the house of themeasures stone wing. approximately On the second 47 n there widthare andtwo 25 feet spacious in depth. bedrooms The handmade situated above brickwork the parlors, is laid inwith a outhern bond pattern, bedroom alternating further divided betweentorows create of headers a small room and stretches, behind it. vlectingen emaining incorporated area consists into of a the front construction room and ofa the hallway. gambrel Thefield stone he is designed north elevation. with a three-room The facade's layout, fenestration which alsoisincludes symmetrically a pantry opens ged, with from openings the southwest spanned corner, by splayed separated brick lintels. from In theaddition porch. to The indows parlor on on the the first firstand floor second contains stories, a jam there fireplace, are alsowhile two windows the north rlluminate features athe jam unfinished without abasement. hearth. Additionally, A molded brick therebelt is acourse second xaslocated a horizontal in the visual bedroom separator above between the south theparlor, lower along and upper with a ng s. Recent hearth and restoration a large efforts oven positioned involved the against removal the west of the wallcirca of the bracketed wing. Stairs wood withcornice closed stringers and the enclosure are situatedof along slightly thelater south side wall oth at the first entrance, and second-floor along with the halls, removal and aofladder-type double-leaf box doors stair des ing access glazedtoupper the half-story panels. Aofpentice the stone was house. introduced, The basement supportedcan by be cal ed through evidenceanof exterior its original bulkhead, presence, which is while discreetly remnants hidden beneath of a me orated enclosure. Italianate Thestyle upper were levels removed of thetobrick facilitate housethis andaddition. the stone window do not have openings, direct originally communication. fitted with two-over-two wood sash urviving d 1885, elements have nowfrom beenapproximately replaced with 1766, twelve-over-twelve which are original woodand designed eplicated,forencompass this application. the twoThe adjacent roof is stringer now covered staircases with and woodthe les, box replacing stair of the a standing stone house, seam asmetal well roof, as theand floorboards chimneyspresent are ghout d at both both ends theofbrick the ridge. and stone areas. The exposed beams in the north d storyelevation of the brick features section, twoalong windows with those each in at the thefirst-floor basement,hall he d story, stoneand wing, attic arelevels. also noteworthy. During the restoration, The property thefeatures two windows four and anel e firstdoors floorwith weresurface-mounted sealed, as they had hardware, been added in addition after thetooriginal later sixruction. doors that Theirinclude placement corresponding would not have molded beenarchitraves appropriateand dueflushto nted resence hinges, of thealong jambless with fireplace the window in the casings northof parlor, the Stonehouse. which wouldAn nal compromised molded casing thefrom functionality the circa 1766 of that construction feature. Inwas contrast, discovered the in oftelevation of the brick displays house. a slightly Significant varied construction arrangement:characteristics two windows from at asement eriod include level, two one heat eachsupports at the first in the andbasement, second levels, with and the southern two at ort tticbeing level.cradle-type The rearand elevation the northern has minimal one featuring window an arch openings, to brick ort. dingThe oneinterior that illuminates walls consist the basement, of both fired another brick that and aligns planks,with while Gambro outh parlor, roofand frame two showcases on the second a distinctive story, onestyle of which linkedprovides to Dutch ntry to the techniques upper stair fromhall. the New Additionally, World, characterized there is a door by rafter with pairs a ght collar thatties aligns andwith wind thebraces. rear of the Thiscenter framing hall.technique facilitated a Brickman y unobstructed block was loft constructed space, providing rapidly, ample aligning headroom with the due height to the et original of the collar Stonehouse. ties. This It has areadimensions likely served of approximately multiple purposes 25 feet as a edary north living and south space elevations during the and18th 16 feet andin early width.19th The stone centuries. wing A es kable three discovery load-bearing made inwalls, the garret notably at the missing onset of a restoration wall where was it a ects lex molded to the wood west section, wall ofwhich the main appeared structure. to be anOn original the north piece of ce ion, molding there for are the twosmall asymmetrically hood of thearranged north parlor windows, jambless equipped fireplace, twelve-over-twelve ing an accurate reproduction wood sash that of this havefeature replaced during the original the restoration twowos. ss. Additionally, The south elevation a cast-ironshowcases fireback inscribed a porch in with front "1765" of the wasstone found, h which had been includes utilizedaindoor the north and aparlor smalljambless windowfireplace. beneath it. This ow imber is adorned framee with addition an exterior was built shutter usingmounted traditional on framing hand-wrought metods, aming rap hinges, left exposed featuring ona the small interior. glazed The panelhyphen and a robust has corbelled peg wood bents g. ingIntraditional the 19thDutch century, framing this precedents, porch was while enclosed, the larger with section the rnmost purlin section system supporting converted into its exposed a pantry;rafters, the area more to the in east keeping of this with sh y has framing since models. been reopened. A hyphen links the stone wing to the rn addition.


the interior exterior

basement and foundation made loft of space. mortar The limestone first floor with features a water a central tablepassage above.flanked The ladder by parlors design on either consistsside, of four withcourses a door of at brick the back topped of the by hall a fifth leading course to a of molded porch that brick. faces the Thissouth section elevation of the house of themeasures stone wing. approximately On the second 47 feet in there floor, widthare andtwo 25 feet spacious in depth. bedrooms The handmade situated above brickwork the parlors, is laid inwith a crosssouthern the bond pattern, bedroom alternating further divided betweentorows create of headers a small room and stretches, behind it. with remaining The vlectingen incorporated area consists into of a the front construction room and ofa the hallway. gambrel Thefield stone on the wing is designed north elevation. with a three-room The facade's layout, fenestration which alsoisincludes symmetrically a pantry arranged, that openswith from openings the southwest spanned corner, by splayed separated brick lintels. from In theaddition porch. to The the windows south parlor on on the the first firstand floor second contains stories, a jam there fireplace, are alsowhile two windows the north that illuminate parlor features athe jam unfinished without abasement. hearth. Additionally, A molded brick therebelt is acourse second serves aslocated firebox a horizontal in the visual bedroom separator above between the south theparlor, lower along and upper with a stories. Recent cooking hearth and restoration a large efforts oven positioned involved the against removal the west of the wallcirca of the 1885 bracketed stone wing. Stairs wood withcornice closed stringers and the enclosure are situatedof along slightly thelater south side wall lights of both at the first entrance, and second-floor along with the halls, removal and aofladder-type double-leaf box doors stair featuring access provides glazedtoupper the half-story panels. Aofpentice the stone was house. introduced, The basement supportedcan by be physical through accessed evidenceanof exterior its original bulkhead, presence, which is while discreetly remnants hidden beneath of a adeteriorated frame enclosure. Italianate Thestyle upper were levels removed of thetobrick facilitate housethis andaddition. the stone The window house do not have openings, direct originally communication. fitted with two-over-two wood sash around The surviving 1885, elements have nowfrom beenapproximately replaced with 1766, twelve-over-twelve which are original woodand sash replicated, not designed forencompass this application. the twoThe adjacent roof is stringer now covered staircases with and woodthe shingles, steep box replacing stair of the a standing stone house, seam asmetal well roof, as theand floorboards chimneyspresent are located at both throughout both ends theofbrick the ridge. and stone areas. The exposed beams in the The north second storyelevation of the brick features section, twoalong windows with those each in at the thefirst-floor basement,hall second and thestory, stoneand wing, attic arelevels. also noteworthy. During the restoration, The property thefeatures two windows four and on the firstdoors five-panel floorwith weresurface-mounted sealed, as they had hardware, been added in addition after thetooriginal later sixconstruction. panel doors that Theirinclude placement corresponding would not have molded beenarchitraves appropriateand dueflushto the presence mounted hinges, of thealong jambless with fireplace the window in the casings northof parlor, the Stonehouse. which wouldAn have compromised original molded casing thefrom functionality the circa 1766 of that construction feature. Inwas contrast, discovered the in south the loftelevation of the brick displays house. a slightly Significant varied construction arrangement:characteristics two windows from at the basement this period include level, two one heat eachsupports at the first in the andbasement, second levels, with and the southern two at the atticbeing support level.cradle-type The rearand elevation the northern has minimal one featuring window an arch openings, to brick includingThe support. oneinterior that illuminates walls consist the basement, of both fired another brick that and aligns planks,with while the south Gambro parlor, roofand frame two showcases on the second a distinctive story, onestyle of which linkedprovides to Dutch light to the carpentry techniques upper stair fromhall. the New Additionally, World, characterized there is a door by rafter with pairs a sidelight with collar thatties aligns andwith wind thebraces. rear of the Thiscenter framing hall.technique facilitated a The Brickman largely unobstructed block was loft constructed space, providing rapidly, ample aligning headroom with the due height to the of the original height of the collar Stonehouse. ties. This It has areadimensions likely served of approximately multiple purposes 25 feet as a on the north secondary living and south space elevations during the and18th 16 feet andin early width.19th The stone centuries. wing A features three remarkable discovery load-bearing made inwalls, the garret notably at the missing onset of a restoration wall where was it a connects molded complex to the wood west section, wall ofwhich the main appeared structure. to be anOn original the north piece of elevation, cornice molding there for are the twosmall asymmetrically hood of thearranged north parlor windows, jambless equipped fireplace, with twelve-over-twelve enabling an accurate reproduction wood sash that of this havefeature replaced during the original the restoration twoover-twos.Additionally, process. The south elevation a cast-ironshowcases fireback inscribed a porch in with front "1765" of the wasstone found, wing, which which had been includes utilizedaindoor the north and aparlor smalljambless windowfireplace. beneath it. This window The timber is adorned framee with addition an exterior was built shutter usingmounted traditional on framing hand-wrought metods, HL framing the strap hinges, left exposed featuring ona the small interior. glazed The panelhyphen and a robust has corbelled peg wood bents casing. Intraditional recalling the 19thDutch century, framing this precedents, porch was while enclosed, the larger with section the westernmost has a purlin section system supporting converted into its exposed a pantry;rafters, the area more to the in east keeping of this with pantry has English framing since models. been reopened. A hyphen links the stone wing to the modern addition.



My Visit with Nancy Fuller Hello everyone. Old homes, early American decorating and lover of antiques is one of my passions. The second passion I have is cooking. Growing up in New England, when Fall arrives it is all about comfort food. My mother was a very good cook and taught me how to cook at a young age. Every Sunday our French Canadian family got together for our big meal of the week. I have fond memories of my French aunts gathering around our home and everyone pitching in to help my mother prepare our Sunday afternoon dinner. So a visit to Nancy Fuller’s home in upstate New York was a dream come true for me! Not only seeing her beautiful Dutch Colonial home and her amazing collection of antiques but to be standing in her kitchen where she prepared so many recipes for her show “Farmhouse Rules”. As Nancy says, “fresh is best, no frills or fuss, chop, chop in the pot, and it is always better with family”. How exciting to see Grammy Carl’s “rules” recipes in person! Sometimes you meet the nicest people, and Nancy is one of them. Nancy showed me around her historic home, telling stories of the restoration of the Conyn-Van Rensselaer house. We sat in every room sharing stories of family, friends, and our love of old homes. We laughed, there was much laughter. That is what it is all about in life – laughter! Thank you, Nancy, for sharing your home with me and the best dream come true! I look forward to years of visits, dinners, and more laughter with Nancy and her husband, David. Stay tuned for some exciting news about our future collaboration at the Locust Dale Farm. Sheila XO




Ogden H ouse

Travel back n time....


Ogden H ouse Travel back in time....


M

nial dwelling. The merit of the house consists almost entirely in the fact it is almost completely in its original condition, very little nstruction being necessary. It is said that the house was built by one of Ogden’s probably about 1715 or 1720, but possibly as early as 1710, The nal structure probably consisted solely of the entrance porch and the h rooms. The north wing was perhaps added about 1750, and still later itchen lean-to and the usual extra flue. As interesting features of this welling, one should note the very large fireplaces with back ovens and oles, the enormous hearthstones, and the winding stairs leading to the Also to be noted is the old flooring, posts, beams, paneling, and work. The shingles on the north side of the house are very early and beautiful weathering. Each shingle, made of white pine, is about y-six inches long, is overlapped twice and fastened at the butt by two wrought iron nails. The house is furnished entirely in the early period, hus you find a typical colonial house more than two hundred years Always mentioned in the same breath, as this house, are two beautiful one an oak across the road, and the other an elm beside the house. are both very stately trees and lend much to the beauty of the Ogden se, and it is often mentioned that the excellent workmanship man put this house becomes inferior to the superb workmanship which nature ght on these trees. The Ogden’s were early in Connecticut. According ports they went along the shore to Stamford in 1641, and one Richard en came to Fairfield in the 1650's. In 1662 he opened a mill located a er of a mile south of the Ogden House. The same mill is still in ation and is known as Perry’s Mill. Also, from records we find that one d Ogden had three sons who served in the Revolutionary War from house. Another descendant, Ellen Ogden, acquired much of this erty as time went on. She was married to Ebenezer Silliman, a sea in. They had no children and lived a very retired life with much ness and precision. Ellen Ogden Sillman is reputed to have been so ng as to take an out of the way river path rather than the highway, just oid her neighbors.


M

colonial dwelling. The merit of the house consists almost entirely in the fact that it is almost completely in its original condition, very little reconstruction being necessary. It is said that the house was built by one of the Ogden’s probably about 1715 or 1720, but possibly as early as 1710, The original structure probably consisted solely of the entrance porch and the south rooms. The north wing was perhaps added about 1750, and still later the kitchen lean-to and the usual extra flue. As interesting features of this old dwelling, one should note the very large fireplaces with back ovens and lug poles, the enormous hearthstones, and the winding stairs leading to the attic. Also to be noted is the old flooring, posts, beams, paneling, and stonework. The shingles on the north side of the house are very early and show beautiful weathering. Each shingle, made of white pine, is about thirty-six inches long, is overlapped twice and fastened at the butt by two hand wrought iron nails. The house is furnished entirely in the early period, and thus you find a typical colonial house more than two hundred years old. Always mentioned in the same breath, as this house, are two beautiful trees, one an oak across the road, and the other an elm beside the house. They are both very stately trees and lend much to the beauty of the Ogden House, and it is often mentioned that the excellent workmanship man put into this house becomes inferior to the superb workmanship which nature wrought on these trees. The Ogden’s were early in Connecticut. According to reports they went along the shore to Stamford in 1641, and one Richard Ogden came to Fairfield in the 1650's. In 1662 he opened a mill located a quarter of a mile south of the Ogden House. The same mill is still in operation and is known as Perry’s Mill. Also, from records we find that one David Ogden had three sons who served in the Revolutionary War from this house. Another descendant, Ellen Ogden, acquired much of this property as time went on. She was married to Ebenezer Silliman, a sea captain. They had no children and lived a very retired life with much exactness and precision. Ellen Ogden Sillman is reputed to have been so retiring as to take an out of the way river path rather than the highway, just to avoid her neighbors.




M

Who was Mary Allis

mid-1940s aits, in theshe collection, opened around an antiques 150 were storepurchased in central by Southport, Stephen Clark for the New York State gden rical ecticut. Association; AtHouse aroundthe theremainder same timewent she to began othertheinstitutions restorationand of the private collectors. The Colonial d amsburg Ogden Foundation House in Fairfield, is among ultimately the institutions turningwhich it intopurchased a showcase work for from Allis. sdescribed owned by eenthand early nineteenth-century American folk paintings and of folk art", Allis was highly as the "doyenne of folk-art dealers" and the "first lady . She became an influential to many collectors, ded among other dealers during guide her career. Sheimportant died in Fairfield. tture. and antiques as Stewart Gregory. aler Mary lis, who rned it into a owcase for ghteenth- and rly neteenthntury merican folk intings and rniture.


M

Who was Mary Allis Ogden House was owned by art and antiques dealer Mary Allis, who turned it into a showcase for eighteenth- and early nineteenthcentury American folk paintings and furniture.

portraits, the mid-1940s in theshe collection, opened around an antiques 150 were storepurchased in central by Southport, Stephen Clark for the New York State Connecticut. Historical Association; At aroundthe theremainder same timewent she to began othertheinstitutions restorationand of the private collectors. The Colonial David Ogden Foundation Williamsburg House in Fairfield, is among ultimately the institutions turningwhich it intopurchased a showcase work for from Allis. eighteenthand early nineteenth-century American folk paintings and of folk art", Allis was highly Once described as the "doyenne of folk-art dealers" and the "first lady furniture. among . She became an influential to many collectors, regarded other dealers during guide her career. Sheimportant died in Fairfield. such as Stewart Gregory.











INSPIRATION

delivered right to your door. historichomesmagazine.com to order your inspiration collection of hhm FROM magazines.

HISTORIC HOMES MAGAZINE


lonetown farm


lonetown farm




This

. Between 1710 and 1711, Read was granted 300 acres of land in two separate transactions by the sh Court, and in 1714, he acquired additional land from the Indigenous people. Upon relocating to on to pursue a legal career in 1721, John Read bequeathed half of his estate to his eldest son, Colonel Read, who later served as Attorney General in Boston. Colonel John Read (1701-1786) was a inent landowner and a leading figure in the town of Redding for many years; he was married twice. nel Read resided at "Lonetown Manor," located east of Lonetown Road and the current Putnam Park ; the property known as Lonetown Farm was included in his land holdings. A son from Colonel 's first marriage, Zalmon Read (1738-1801), who later became a Captain during the Revolutionary War, daughter from his second marriage, Esther (1761-1806), played significant roles in the history of this erty. There was a 23-year age gap between Zalmon and Esther.


This

of 17. Between 1710 and 1711, Read was granted 300 acres of land in two separate transactions by the English Court, and in 1714, he acquired additional land from the Indigenous people. Upon relocating to Boston to pursue a legal career in 1721, John Read bequeathed half of his estate to his eldest son, Colonel John Read, who later served as Attorney General in Boston. Colonel John Read (1701-1786) was a prominent landowner and a leading figure in the town of Redding for many years; he was married twice. Colonel Read resided at "Lonetown Manor," located east of Lonetown Road and the current Putnam Park Road; the property known as Lonetown Farm was included in his land holdings. A son from Colonel Read's first marriage, Zalmon Read (1738-1801), who later became a Captain during the Revolutionary War, and a daughter from his second marriage, Esther (1761-1806), played significant roles in the history of this property. There was a 23-year age gap between Zalmon and Esther.





This two-and-a-half-story wooden frame building features five bays and a central chimney. The main entrance is accentuated by pilasters and is topped with a transom window and a pediment. A gabled portico, supported by Doric columns and pilasters, provides shelter to the entryway. The interior is designed according to a traditional center chimney layout, comprising a narrow entry vestibule, parlors flanking either side, and a kitchen located behind the chimney. Numerous original interior elements are preserved, including wide floorboards, original doors with their hardware, and wood paneling in the north parlor. Constructed in 1796 for Daniel and Esther Bartlett, who were part of prominent local families, the couple resided there until 1802, when they sold the property to the Sherwood family, who maintained ownership for a significant portion of the 19th century. The property continued to function as a farm until 1973, when it was acquired by the town, which subsequently built a school to the south. The house was then leased to the local historical society, which utilizes it as both a headquarters and a museum.




circa, 1750Read Barn Zalmon

1750 was moved to its present location at town Farm and restored by the Redding orical Society in 1979/1980. The barn is wn as the Zalmon Read Barn.


circa, 1750Read Barn Zalmon

circa 1750 was moved to its present location at Lonetown Farm and restored by the Redding Historical Society in 1979/1980. The barn is known as the Zalmon Read Barn.


ohn Horsford House circa, 1750


John Horsford House circa, 1750


J

he purchased between 1747 and 1754. His grandfather was named John ord, and was friends with King George III of England. John the grandson d the “r” to his name. He married Sarah Woodruff and they had three ren: Elisha, Martha and Zerviah. Horsford farmed the land from 1750 to

n records show that he sold the land to Joseph Hinman (1721-1787) of dbury, Connecticut with a dwelling house and barn in 1755. Hinman, also a er, acquired the house at the time of his marriage to Esther Woodruff, Sarah’s r. They had one son in 1757 named Amos. In 1780 the land was legally divided et off to individual family land owners.

ph Hinman retained 232 acres, the largest portion of this land division. Amos man the son presumably inherited the entire farm upon his father's death in although the land transfer is not recorded in the Farmington town records. rmer like his father, Amos also operated a Tavern along the old George hington Turnpike (GWTP) to Litchfield, CT which retains its same name.

n the GWTP crosses into Unionville, the name is changed to Burlington Road. avern was named A. Hinman’s Tavern, “The Rising Sun Inn” (1795-1815). and and home passed through several hands but always remained an active .

home and land were then sold in 1826 to Harvey Whittlesey, then to Isaac es of Burlington Connecticut, then in 1828 to Adana Rowe of Augusta, gia. From there the property went to a relative, Isaiah Rowe and then to am G. Rowe. Shortly thereafter, William Rowe sold the home and remaining to David S. Porter of Berlin, Connecticut around 1839.

d Porter is believed to be related to Sarah Porter, founder of Miss Porter’s ol in Farmington, Ct. ca. 1843, and Noah Porter, President of Yale College 1871-1886. Upon David's death in 1866, the property was deeded to his son n and then sold out of the family in 1897 to Soren Johansen. Johansen ined in the home until 1916 and the property transferred to Robert Hotchkiss hen to George and Mabel Dorman from 1936-2004.

house remained vacant for two years until the current owners Rev. Dr. ael and Susan Morawski acquired the property in 2007, and restored it to its er glory. They also listed the John Horsford House on the Connecticut State oric Register in 2007.

interesting colonial farmhouse is one of the oldest dwellings in Farmington's District, known as Unionville, and is historically significant for its ciation with the Horsford, Hinman and Porter families. Interestingly, the ng in the kitchen has some old original newspaper written in Old English, d August 9, 1774. This newspaper is glued across the gaps in the floorboards.


J

land he purchased between 1747 and 1754. His grandfather was named John Hosford, and was friends with King George III of England. John the grandson added the “r” to his name. He married Sarah Woodruff and they had three children: Elisha, Martha and Zerviah. Horsford farmed the land from 1750 to 1755. Town records show that he sold the land to Joseph Hinman (1721-1787) of Woodbury, Connecticut with a dwelling house and barn in 1755. Hinman, also a farmer, acquired the house at the time of his marriage to Esther Woodruff, Sarah’s sister. They had one son in 1757 named Amos. In 1780 the land was legally divided and set off to individual family land owners. Joseph Hinman retained 232 acres, the largest portion of this land division. Amos Hinman the son presumably inherited the entire farm upon his father's death in 1822 although the land transfer is not recorded in the Farmington town records. A farmer like his father, Amos also operated a Tavern along the old George Washington Turnpike (GWTP) to Litchfield, CT which retains its same name. When the GWTP crosses into Unionville, the name is changed to Burlington Road. His tavern was named A. Hinman’s Tavern, “The Rising Sun Inn” (1795-1815). The land and home passed through several hands but always remained an active farm. The home and land were then sold in 1826 to Harvey Whittlesey, then to Isaac Moses of Burlington Connecticut, then in 1828 to Adana Rowe of Augusta, Georgia. From there the property went to a relative, Isaiah Rowe and then to William G. Rowe. Shortly thereafter, William Rowe sold the home and remaining land to David S. Porter of Berlin, Connecticut around 1839. David Porter is believed to be related to Sarah Porter, founder of Miss Porter’s School in Farmington, Ct. ca. 1843, and Noah Porter, President of Yale College from 1871-1886. Upon David's death in 1866, the property was deeded to his son Bryan and then sold out of the family in 1897 to Soren Johansen. Johansen remained in the home until 1916 and the property transferred to Robert Hotchkiss and then to George and Mabel Dorman from 1936-2004. The house remained vacant for two years until the current owners Rev. Dr. Michael and Susan Morawski acquired the property in 2007, and restored it to its former glory. They also listed the John Horsford House on the Connecticut State Historic Register in 2007. This interesting colonial farmhouse is one of the oldest dwellings in Farmington's West District, known as Unionville, and is historically significant for its association with the Horsford, Hinman and Porter families. Interestingly, the ceiling in the kitchen has some old original newspaper written in Old English, dated August 9, 1774. This newspaper is glued across the gaps in the floorboards.


"This is 18th Century Early American Colonial ving—at ts best"!


"This is 18th Century Early American Colonial living—at its best"!



Connecticut River, and instantly fell in love with the character and construction of old homes. After they were married, Susan and Mike decided to stay in a colonial BNB for there anniversary, and booked a room in the Deacon Tmothy Pratt House in Old Saybrook Ct. This grand colonial was built in 1746, and is now a private residence. Mike and Susan were so taken by the character of the old home, they decided right then and there to purchase an 18th century home for themselves and restore and maintain a part of US history. Mike and Susan probably looked at a dozen 18th century homes for sale, before Susan found this foreclosure on the internet. It was the John Horsford House built in 1750. It had been vacant for 2 years and the bank had all but given up on finding a new owner to purchase it. They drove over to the house on a very rainy day just to look in the windows. Most of them were covered by old curtains, so you couldn’t see anything. But the back window was not. Mike got out of the car first and investigated the Keeping Room through the back window and noticed the big cooking fireplace, and told Susan. She quickly ran out of the car in her stocking feet through the mud to peer in. Mike and Susan loved it! They contacted the agent and scheduled a visit for the next day. Mike and Susan entered through the back door and into the Keeping Room, and were amazed at the originality that had remained. Next, into the rustic wood cabinet kitchen and then into the Tavern Room and gazed at the feather-edge wainscot paneling on the fireplace wall. Mike turned to the real estate agent and said, “We’ll take it!” He said, nope, you haven’t even seen the rest of the house. Mike said, “We’ll take it, I don’t need to see the rest!” He said, “Calm down Mike, you have to see the rest first!” So, they moved into the Best Room, clad with the original featheredged paneling on the fireplace wall. Mike exclaimed again, “We’ll take it!” The agent said, “Nope! You haven’t even gone upstairs!” They go upstairs into the main bed chamber and one wall is clad with the same feather-edge board and Mike says, “We’ll take it!” He says, “Nope, you have seen the basement yet!” We look at the basement and then he finally agrees to take us to his office to write up our offer. Mike spent the next 12 years restoring it to its former glory.




(circa 1763). Both are situated on the original sites, which all who drive by can Being able to share a piece of early American history and answering the questions of strangers who stop in, some who previously lived here, really to the nostalgia, and helps people understand how America started and ed from its infancy. ors to the home are amazed by the architecture, and soak up the warmth and colonial history from the old wood and brick interiors. Many days and nights ave sat around our 18th century restored Saltbox home and imagined all the

Passions We Have for the Home


Mass (circa 1763). Both are situated on the original sites, which all who drive by can enjoy. Being able to share a piece of early American history and answering the many questions of strangers who stop in, some who previously lived here, really adds to the nostalgia, and helps people understand how America started and evolved from its infancy. Visitors to the home are amazed by the architecture, and soak up the warmth and early colonial history from the old wood and brick interiors. Many days and nights we have sat around our 18th century restored Saltbox home and imagined all the

Passions We Have for the Home


was the only form of “entertainment” the early

se is all lit up, we sneak rican Colonists had. This home also saw many young ideoffand look in the ourRevolutionary own go to war—from War to World War dows with the wavy etimes atglass—and night, when the house is all lit up, we sneak wcastle de and look in our own windows with the wavy Newcastle vel!" marvel! We also love how we feel so secure in the —and

e during storms. Susan stated, “This house has stood on spot for 274 years, nothing is going to touch us, we are in here!” For example, during the 2011 ice storm where st power for 11 days, Mike cooked on the hearth, lit the e with hand-dipped candles he made, and we slept by the ace. Often, we host a candlelight Thanksgiving dinner at nd 6pm, where all the fireplaces are lit and we eat, tell es, and laugh with our 5 children and 12 grandchildren— less. e is also a babbling brook and small pond on the erty. Many nights in the Spring we have slept with the ows open and listen to the Spring Peepers which serenade p until 11pm when they drift off and fall eerily silent. We also told by our 90-year-old neighbor who spent her life living across the street, that the previous owner of ohn Horsford House had a two-way radio in his barn, and e neighbors gathered over here to listen to updates on rogress of WWII in Europe. She said it was incredible.


Bible was the only form of “entertainment” the early house is all lit up, we sneak American Colonists had. This home also saw many young outside look in the ourRevolutionary own men go offand to war—from War to World War II. windows with the wavy Sometimes atglass—and night, when the house is all lit up, we sneak Newcastle outside and look in our own windows with the wavy Newcastle marvel!" glass—and marvel! We also love how we feel so secure in the house during storms. Susan stated, “This house has stood on this spot for 274 years, nothing is going to touch us, we are safe in here!” For example, during the 2011 ice storm where we lost power for 11 days, Mike cooked on the hearth, lit the house with hand-dipped candles he made, and we slept by the fireplace. Often, we host a candlelight Thanksgiving dinner at around 6pm, where all the fireplaces are lit and we eat, tell stories, and laugh with our 5 children and 12 grandchildren— priceless. There is also a babbling brook and small pond on the property. Many nights in the Spring we have slept with the windows open and listen to the Spring Peepers which serenade us, up until 11pm when they drift off and fall eerily silent. We were also told by our 90-year-old neighbor who spent her whole life living across the street, that the previous owner of this John Horsford House had a two-way radio in his barn, and all the neighbors gathered over here to listen to updates on the progress of WWII in Europe. She said it was incredible.


T

Construction and Restoration

partial shed dormer roof at the rear of the house and an extended buttery were both added five bayhalf façades hall,added two-over-two room plan eover beginning of thewith 20tha center century.front Mike 18th century wide board flooring to the sting of twoinbed over with two parlors. and walls the chambers buttery, along new wiring and 18th century ceiling joists all purchased

acompletely Connecticut repointed 18th century the chimney salvageup company throughinthe Brooklyn center of Ct.the house. so chiseled the ceramic tile clad on the replacedwhich it withwere 18thunder the cedar shake main house up exterior walls are withhearth woodand clapboard, ry brick purchase from a New England Company ior someone put on in the 1970’s. MikeRestoration stripped allSalvage of those off. Theinbuttery addition has non Ct. He restored the for original converted it apping widealso board plank the Birthing exterior Room sidingand which Mike had custom made from a master bath, Company complete with hidden shower, water and drop man’s Lumber in Burlington Ct. The roofcloset has been updated by Mike with asphalt ng all from 18th materials. les.board, The foundation is century the original brownstone, and the two chimneys are constructed of

main center chimney was altered in size but maintains the original brick with three working aces. There remains one original 12-over-8 light window in the center upstairs. The interior e house reflects the colonial style of the period in original chestnut post-and-beam with er-edge wainscot paneling around every fireplace and in the master bed chamber. There is built-in cabinetry in the best room and several rooms have the original wide-board floors. e are three-panel doors throughout, typical of early Connecticut construction, with six of original, including hardware. Any modern doors were replaced by Mike with 18th century s purchase from Brooklyn Restoration Supply, who specializes in salvaging 18th century ing materials from historic homes that needed to be relocated.

house has a southern exposure with a small cultivated lawn of one-half acre that slopes ly toward the street and is set in a residential neighborhood with tree-lined streets and oneo one acre lots. The house also has the original well and Mike placed a zigzag or battlefield around its perimeter with three 18th century granite hitching posts.

four-car garage built in 1909 mimics the house in design and materials and is set at the west corner of the lot and reached by a curved driveway added in 2008 from the street. eone replaced the original carriage house on this exact spot with a horse barn sometime in 9th century. Part of the original brownstone foundation remains.

took 2 years and completely rebuilt and transformed this barn into a 4-car garage and -working shop. Mike makes reproduction furniture in the workshop, just like the many of the Horsford House owners before us. Mike has made over 65 items in the house from 18th ry wood he purchased from antique salvage companies throughout New England. His farm s are heirlooms, made with the utmost quality and have adorned many antique homes in ecticut.

e is also a sizable garden shed on the northwest corner built in 1930, which Mike restored. lso constructed a 2500 sq. ft. organic garden around the shed, that Susan labors over with care, tenderness, and detail, with many of the same plants, herbs, and flowers from the 18th ry, used in our cooking today. The property includes several native species of fruit trees.

entire property is maintained in excellent condition by Mike and Susan, maintaining at least or more of its original materials. Despite some sensitive and necessary changes to the

ing fabric over the course of the past 270 years, the house and surrounding property tain a very high degree of integrity.


T

Construction and Restoration

The partial shed dormer roof at the rear of the house and an extended buttery were both added three five bayhalf façades hall,added two-over-two room plan at theover beginning of thewith 20tha center century.front Mike 18th century wide board flooring to the consisting of twoinbed over with two parlors. floor and walls the chambers buttery, along new wiring and 18th century ceiling joists all purchased Mike acompletely from Connecticut repointed 18th century the chimney salvageup company throughinthe Brooklyn center of Ct.the house. He also chiseled the ceramic tile clad on the replacedwhich it withwere 18thunder the cedar shake The main house up exterior walls are withhearth woodand clapboard, century brick purchase from a New England Company exterior someone put on in the 1970’s. MikeRestoration stripped allSalvage of those off. Theinbuttery addition has Lebanon Ct. He restored the for original converted it overlapping widealso board plank the Birthing exterior Room sidingand which Mike had custom made from into a master bath, Company complete with hidden shower, water and drop Hinman’s Lumber in Burlington Ct. The roofcloset has been updated by Mike with asphalt ironing board, all from 18th materials. shingles. The foundation is century the original brownstone, and the two chimneys are constructed of brick.

The main center chimney was altered in size but maintains the original brick with three working fireplaces. There remains one original 12-over-8 light window in the center upstairs. The interior of the house reflects the colonial style of the period in original chestnut post-and-beam with feather-edge wainscot paneling around every fireplace and in the master bed chamber. There is also built-in cabinetry in the best room and several rooms have the original wide-board floors. There are three-panel doors throughout, typical of early Connecticut construction, with six of them original, including hardware. Any modern doors were replaced by Mike with 18th century doors purchase from Brooklyn Restoration Supply, who specializes in salvaging 18th century building materials from historic homes that needed to be relocated. The house has a southern exposure with a small cultivated lawn of one-half acre that slopes slightly toward the street and is set in a residential neighborhood with tree-lined streets and onehalf to one acre lots. The house also has the original well and Mike placed a zigzag or battlefield fence around its perimeter with three 18th century granite hitching posts. The four-car garage built in 1909 mimics the house in design and materials and is set at the northwest corner of the lot and reached by a curved driveway added in 2008 from the street. Someone replaced the original carriage house on this exact spot with a horse barn sometime in the 19th century. Part of the original brownstone foundation remains. Mike took 2 years and completely rebuilt and transformed this barn into a 4-car garage and wood-working shop. Mike makes reproduction furniture in the workshop, just like the many of the John Horsford House owners before us. Mike has made over 65 items in the house from 18th century wood he purchased from antique salvage companies throughout New England. His farm tables are heirlooms, made with the utmost quality and have adorned many antique homes in Connecticut. There is also a sizable garden shed on the northwest corner built in 1930, which Mike restored. He also constructed a 2500 sq. ft. organic garden around the shed, that Susan labors over with love, care, tenderness, and detail, with many of the same plants, herbs, and flowers from the 18th century, used in our cooking today. The property includes several native species of fruit trees. The entire property is maintained in excellent condition by Mike and Susan, maintaining at least 60% or more of its original materials. Despite some sensitive and necessary changes to the building fabric over the course of the past 270 years, the house and surrounding property maintain a very high degree of integrity.




William our home Haskell awayHouse om home


your home William Haskell awayHouse from home


The Story.......

ring xhibits property, 8 feet a steep in which width pitch, included and and5 feet the a barn building in height, and aissurpassing house, constructed to the William using dimensions Haskell. a timber of Extensive frame, the fireplace with the in the framework parlor in visible depth, on width, the and ch .r.This The haskitchen exterior been includes conducted is clad ina vertical built-in on the plank corner house sheathing baking over oven the that runs and years, acontinuously warming leading niche, to from ongoing and theit top is likely plate that to the there bottom was sill, a beehive whichoven sions inal t as to well. regarding theThe structure. walls the surrounding age Thisof vertical its original the plank fireplace wall structure. is still secured It showcase iswith widely wooden their accepted original pegs that and sheathing is themortised boards intoand thedoor. top plate. Additionally, During the llration ovides House in access the is a18th to First the century, Period original repairs building, cellar,towhich the likely sheathing retains constructed its were original completed in thestone late using 17th steps.rose orAearly small head built-in nails. The cupboard, Haskell House which stands is recessed entury. eone house's of The the framing, house few remaining features is also a anotable vertical heavy feature timber plank houses of frame the hall. design in Cape The characteristic three Ann. exterior Notably, of walls English the are interior currently has largely coveredremained with feather-edged in its ng, al architecture. state, a modification with no While identified significant it is relatively during renovations thelarge recent orforupdates. restoration its time,It it as features was having intended its been original added as a by doors Albert andAtkins impressive in 1924. hardware Originally, ghout. walls ing man's" would As a farmer's home. have been The residence, plastered, WilliamitHaskell embodies similar House toathe plain other stands andthree straightforward as a unique rooms. representation Thedesign. hall also Finding boastsa an house exposed in such summer near-original beam, floor ion, and t period second-floor like the architecture. William floorboards. Haskell As noted House, Theinfront "The is exceptionally hallway Evolution exemplifies of rare. Colonial The typical interior Architecture," 17th-century showcasesarchitecture. gunstock corner posts, exposed preservation er beams,through floor of this joists, estate, andremaining a second-story unchanged characteristic over that the centuries, of 17th-century is one construction. Additionally, it entering the front door, onelargely finds afloor, smallallhallway matches the width of the chimneystack. This hallway esfortunate chamfered beams that adorned haveon with occurred curved only decorations a the select fewand of the our robust early oak New gunstock corner posts.there Theisprimary cts the hall miracles (original kitchen) thecyma westin side and parlor on east side. Within the hallway, an enclosed nd homes." to the house of Colonial isascends located Architecture," at the rear, accessed the lean-to structure. addition in is rcestaircase that to second floor. through This staircase, aligned with This the width of was the likely centralconstructed chimneystack, rly 18th century, a robust timber framewhich that matches the original house. On thethe south side ofand the the lean-to, oned against the featuring exposed brick chimneystack, has remained unplastered. Both hallway enclosed are elongated horizontal boards with beveled edges, which may represent the initial exterior wall covering. From se preserve their original vertical pine boards. In the early 18th century, the house underwent significant renovations. an-to, one can enter the original house, the north ell, and the gambrel addition. To reach the parlor from the lean-to, ust step down over the aged, elevated sill of the original house. The floor joists are positioned lower than the d sill plate, resulting in a descent onto the original flooring, which reveals both the sill and the underlying work. The parlor boasts a substantial fireplace measuring 7 feet in width and 5 feet in height, adorned with pine ing on the fireplace wall. It features oak chamfered beams, gunstock corner posts with chamfered edges, and simple d molding above the fireplace. The beams are uniquely finished with a one-inch-wide cyma curve decoration along ttom edge of the vertical aces of the chimney, as well as the end, rear, and front girts in the parlor.

g this process, the original twin casement windows were replaced with double-hung windows, and a one-story ell was ucted at the northern end of the property. Eventually, this north ell was removed and relocated across the street, where been integrated into another residence. For nearly 140 years, three distinct sections of the house were owned separately ious descendants of the Haskell family. It is possible that an addition was made to the eastern end of the house, as there previous extension where the gambrel addition currently exists. In the 1920s, the house was discovered and purchased bert Atkins and his wife, Louise, both renowned sculptors. Their efforts to preserve the house and maintain its original ter are commendable. To create a main floor bedroom, Atkins renovated the north ell and constructed a new chimney, ed after the parlor in the original structure. He also added a bathroom adjacent to this new section and a small kitchen east side. Subsequently, he expanded the property with a larger wing that included a kitchen, dining area, and an rs bedroom and bathroom, known as the gambrel addition. Additionally, a small bathroom was added off the master om (parlor chamber) in the original house, accessible through an old closet. The Atkins family successfully preserved the ty of the original house while incorporating modern amenities. In the autumn of 1967, Howard and Margaret Williams ed the house, earning recognition for their efforts in preserving its historical authenticity. Margaret was an accomplished , while Howard conducted extensive research on the house's lineage and the Haskell family genealogy. autumn of 1967, Howard and Margaret Williams acquired the house, earning recognition for their efforts in preserving torical authenticity. Margaret was an accomplished quilter, while Howard conducted extensive research on the house's e and the Haskell family genealogy. ril 2012, Fred and Pam Grote became the new owners. Between 2012 and 2014, the house underwent a significant cal restoration. The restoration included the application of new cypress bevel siding in traditional 4-foot lengths with d ends, secured with handmade rose head nails. A new roof was installed, featuring hand-split wood shakes. The original ws were replaced with custom-made, architecturally accurate mid-18th century reproduction double-hung windows. g the restoration process, the original plank frame of the house was revealed, indicating that it initially featured twin nd-pane casement windows. Following the guidance of Abbot Lowell Cummings, it was decided to replace the doublewindows with the original style, as Cummings noted that a house evolves naturally, and installing diamond-pane ent windows would not be appropriate.


The Story.......

measuring of roof theexhibits property, 8 feet a steep in which width pitch, included and and5 feet the a barn building in height, and aissurpassing house, constructed to the William using dimensions Haskell. a timber of Extensive frame, the fireplace with the in the framework parlor in visible depth, on width, the and researchThis interior. height. The haskitchen exterior been includes conducted is clad ina vertical built-in on the plank corner house sheathing baking over oven the that runs and years, acontinuously warming leading niche, to from ongoing and theit top is likely plate that to the there bottom was sill, a beehive whichoven discussions is present original as to well. regarding theThe structure. walls the surrounding age Thisof vertical its original the plank fireplace wall structure. is still secured It showcase iswith widely wooden their accepted original pegs that and sheathing is themortised boards intoand thedoor. top plate. Additionally, During the aHaskell hall restoration provides House in access the is a18th to First the century, Period original repairs building, cellar,towhich the likely sheathing retains constructed its were original completed in thestone late using 17th steps.rose orAearly small head built-in nails. The cupboard, Haskell House which stands is recessed 18thas out into the century. one house's of The the framing, house few remaining features is also a anotable vertical heavy feature timber plank houses of frame the hall. design in Cape The characteristic three Ann. exterior Notably, of walls English the are interior currently has largely coveredremained with feather-edged in its manor architecture. original paneling, state, a modification with no While identified significant it is relatively during renovations thelarge recent orforupdates. restoration its time,It it as features was having intended its been original added as a by doors Albert andAtkins impressive in 1924. hardware Originally, "working throughout. these wallsman's" would As a farmer's home. have been The residence, plastered, WilliamitHaskell embodies similar House toathe plain other stands andthree straightforward as a unique rooms. representation Thedesign. hall also Finding boastsa an house exposed in such summer near-original beam, floor of firstand condition, joists, period second-floor like the architecture. William floorboards. Haskell As noted House, Theinfront "The is exceptionally hallway Evolution exemplifies of rare. Colonial The typical interior Architecture," 17th-century showcasesarchitecture. gunstock corner posts, exposed "The preservation summer beams,through floor of this joists, estate, andremaining a second-story unchanged characteristic over that the centuries, of 17th-century is one construction. Additionally, it Upon entering the front door, onelargely finds afloor, smallallhallway matches the width of the chimneystack. This hallway of the fortunate includes chamfered beams that adorned haveon with occurred curved only decorations a the select fewand of the our robust early oak New gunstock corner posts.there Theisprimary connects the hall miracles (original kitchen) thecyma westin side and parlor on east side. Within the hallway, an enclosed Englandstaircase entrance homes." to the house of Colonial isascends located Architecture," at the rear, accessed the lean-to structure. addition in is winder that to second floor. through This staircase, aligned with This the width of was the likely centralconstructed chimneystack, the early 18th century, a robust timber framewhich that matches the original house. On thethe south side ofand the the lean-to, positioned against the featuring exposed brick chimneystack, has remained unplastered. Both hallway enclosed there are elongated horizontal boards with beveled edges, which may represent the initial exterior wall covering. From staircase preserve their original vertical pine boards. In the early 18th century, the house underwent significant renovations. this lean-to, one can enter the original house, the north ell, and the gambrel addition. To reach the parlor from the lean-to, one must step down over the aged, elevated sill of the original house. The floor joists are positioned lower than the ground sill plate, resulting in a descent onto the original flooring, which reveals both the sill and the underlying framework. The parlor boasts a substantial fireplace measuring 7 feet in width and 5 feet in height, adorned with pine sheathing on the fireplace wall. It features oak chamfered beams, gunstock corner posts with chamfered edges, and simple toothed molding above the fireplace. The beams are uniquely finished with a one-inch-wide cyma curve decoration along the bottom edge of the vertical aces of the chimney, as well as the end, rear, and front girts in the parlor.

During this process, the original twin casement windows were replaced with double-hung windows, and a one-story ell was constructed at the northern end of the property. Eventually, this north ell was removed and relocated across the street, where it has been integrated into another residence. For nearly 140 years, three distinct sections of the house were owned separately by various descendants of the Haskell family. It is possible that an addition was made to the eastern end of the house, as there was a previous extension where the gambrel addition currently exists. In the 1920s, the house was discovered and purchased by Albert Atkins and his wife, Louise, both renowned sculptors. Their efforts to preserve the house and maintain its original character are commendable. To create a main floor bedroom, Atkins renovated the north ell and constructed a new chimney, modeled after the parlor in the original structure. He also added a bathroom adjacent to this new section and a small kitchen on the east side. Subsequently, he expanded the property with a larger wing that included a kitchen, dining area, and an upstairs bedroom and bathroom, known as the gambrel addition. Additionally, a small bathroom was added off the master bedroom (parlor chamber) in the original house, accessible through an old closet. The Atkins family successfully preserved the integrity of the original house while incorporating modern amenities. In the autumn of 1967, Howard and Margaret Williams acquired the house, earning recognition for their efforts in preserving its historical authenticity. Margaret was an accomplished quilter, while Howard conducted extensive research on the house's lineage and the Haskell family genealogy. In the autumn of 1967, Howard and Margaret Williams acquired the house, earning recognition for their efforts in preserving its historical authenticity. Margaret was an accomplished quilter, while Howard conducted extensive research on the house's lineage and the Haskell family genealogy. In April 2012, Fred and Pam Grote became the new owners. Between 2012 and 2014, the house underwent a significant historical restoration. The restoration included the application of new cypress bevel siding in traditional 4-foot lengths with scarfed ends, secured with handmade rose head nails. A new roof was installed, featuring hand-split wood shakes. The original windows were replaced with custom-made, architecturally accurate mid-18th century reproduction double-hung windows. During the restoration process, the original plank frame of the house was revealed, indicating that it initially featured twin diamond-pane casement windows. Following the guidance of Abbot Lowell Cummings, it was decided to replace the doublehung windows with the original style, as Cummings noted that a house evolves naturally, and installing diamond-pane casement windows would not be appropriate.


Parlor Chamber

oom so named use it is located e the parlor. This boasts the original ed walls, exposed and beam ruction, exposed fered gunstock posts, mer beam and sed chimney and end


Parlor Chamber bedroom so named because it is located above the parlor. This room boasts the original paneled walls, exposed post and beam construction, exposed chamfered gunstock posts, summer beam and exposed chimney and end girts.




The Parlor


The Parlor




North Ell

ests is on the main It is located in the century addition d the north ell. This room has an exposed en ceiling. The mer beam, the ceiling and the second floor boards are exposed.


North Ell

to guests is on the main floor. It is located in the 18th century addition called the north ell. This large room has an exposed wooden ceiling. The summer beam, the ceiling joist and the second floor floorboards are exposed.


Fall in New England

HHM Travel Destinations

things to do


When it comes to Halloween season 10:00AM - 4:00PM Apples events and activities, Litchfield dispensesMountain a bounty of “treats.” Orchard 80 Trumble Lane Granville, MA www.visitlitchfieldct.com www.mountainorchard.com


Seth Rider House circa, 1810

Resources

www.instagram.com/fullerfarmer/

John C Barbato

censed Associate Real Estate Broker www.johncbarbato.com

Ogden House www.fairfieldhistory.org

Pierre Wakim (Photography) @pierrewakimsphotography

Historic Decorative Metals Pave' Tile, Wood & Stone ,Inc www.pavehdm.com

Lonetown Farm

www.reddingcthistoricalsociety.org

The William Haskell House www.williamhaskellhouse.com

ichael Sofokles (Photography) @midnightrefuge

amie Prescott (Photography) www.jamieprescott.com

Ren Nickson (Photography)

w.rennicksonphotography.smugmug.com


Seth Rider House circa, 1810 Resources

www.instagram.com/fullerfarmer/

John C Barbato

Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker www.johncbarbato.com

Ogden House www.fairfieldhistory.org

Pierre Wakim (Photography) @pierrewakimsphotography

Historic Decorative Metals Pave' Tile, Wood & Stone ,Inc www.pavehdm.com

Lonetown Farm www.reddingcthistoricalsociety.org

The William Haskell House www.williamhaskellhouse.com

Michael Sofokles (Photography) @midnightrefuge

Jamie Prescott (Photography) www.jamieprescott.com

Ren Nickson (Photography) www.rennicksonphotography.smugmug.com


perfect moments coming soon



ood Network Star Nancy Fuller's Farmhouse Historic homes the details rmington Valley Connecticut Saltbox William Haskell House magazine it's all in

the details


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.