Connecticut Preservation News January/February 2008 Volume XXXI, No. 1

Buildings of Connecticut Richard Platt G. Farmer

David Merwin house, Milford going ...... going ...... gone. A Cautionary Tale t looked as though Milford had scored another preserva- that Westwood wanted to take down the Merwin house. Not I tion victory with the David Merwin house, built around only was there the preservation restriction, but Milford also has 1790 overlooking Gulf Pond, an inlet off Long Island Sound. In a delay of demolition ordinance requiring that Platt, as city his- recent years the pressure to replace the house and its surround- torian, be informed of any proposals to demolish historic build- ing farmland with new housing had grown intense. In February ings in the city, a provision that allows time for preservationists of last year the City of Milford bought the property, which to try to find alternatives to demolition. had already been divided into five building lots. Two lots were But on December 3, Platt heard that workers had in fact retained as open space and the remaining three sold to developer begun taking down the house. Within a few days nothing Westwood Ranches LLC. The lot containing the Merwin house remained but piles of timbers and stones. Westwood’s plan, it sold for only $200,000 because the city added deed restrictions turned out, was to re-erect the house on the same lot, only requiring that the house’s exterior appearance be preserved. farther from the road, and turned 90 degrees to face the view. Milford has an admirable record for preserving historic The house would look just the same, Platt was assured. properties. More than any other municipality in the state, it has Platt and Benjamin Blake, chairman of Milford’s Board been willing to buy endangered buildings with public funds and of Aldermen, were furious. Blake said that the developer had re-sell them with preservation restrictions. The process began “betrayed” the city, and ought to be forced to pay damages. when a developer announced plans to demolish the John Downs house, an 18th-century structure in a National Register district What happened? (see CPN, September/October 1999). The city obtained a state A review of the preservation restriction reveals several flaws grant to buy the house and has partially restored it with plans in the process. First, the easement agreement isn’t clear about for resale. continued on page 8 Milford since has bought and preserved two other houses, the Treat house on Gulf Street and the Stowe farm at Walnut Beach, and work is currently progressing on a third, the William S.

Pond house, also on Gulf Street. Richard Platt, the city historian ______In This Issue... and a leading local preservationist, praises the city’s commitment Book Notes 3 to preserving these buildings. ______With this record, Platt understandably wasn’t very worried Around the State 6 when an anonymous city employee telephoned last fall to say ______Grants for Barns 11

The Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation is a private, nonprofit organization. ISSN 1084-189X At the Trust

From the Executive Director

e were saddened by the death in ticular weekend. This last we never had an before deleting; it was truly gone, we were W October of former trustee answer for! told. We dealt with this mess for weeks. Lillian Brown of Waterbury. Representing Last summer, we learned that the web Finally, the hosting company found part of the Trust at the memorial service, Jane site was not on line. After much effort to the site, and we located a back-up, but one Talamini, another former trustee, described make human contact with the hosting containing only the original information, Lillian’s achievements and her contribu- company, we found out that the site had not the changes over six years. tions to planning the gala at the Wauregan been deleted for non-payment of hosting So, the site is back as it was in 2001. I Hotel in 2006 in the face of trying health fees. The non-payment occurred because tell you this story for two reasons: First, problems. All of us join Jane in extend- the automatic charges to our credit card as a reminder to make sure you and your ing our sympathy to Lou and the rest of didn’t work once the card’s expiration hosting company back up your wonderful Lillian’s family. date occurred. Rather than contact the web sites ALL THE TIME. Second, to ask Here is another cautionary tale. In Connecticut Trust, the hosting company that you look at www.towngreens.com and 2001, the Trust launched its first special- simply deleted the site. We straightened let us know what we need to add to make subject website, www.towngreens.com. that out. A few months later, the site was the information on your town’s green (or In the early 1990s the Trust, supported deleted again, while “migrating” to a new greens) as accurate as possible. by a grant from the then Connecticut server. This time we were informed that In the meantime, the Trust’s historic Historical Commission, surveyed 173 key data was lost and could not be recov- barns initiative continues to draw attention town greens in Connecticut. The survey ered. Did we have a back up? Before we to these important but often threatened forms grew dusty in the Trust’s library could find that out, the site came back on resources, and it is also providing helpful until the late 1990s, when the new elec- line and then immediately went off line publicity for the Trust itself. Preservation tronic age inspired us to make the survey again for non-payment based on the old Services officer Todd Levine appeared information, and much more, available account. The earlier payment was recorded on NBC-30-TV’s morning program this to all via a new web site. After two years on a new account, the old account was not month, where he was able to announce the of research and planning, all supported deleted, and now the billing department new barn grants, see page 11. by the Connecticut Humanities Council, did a permanent delete based on this faulty —Helen Higgins www.towngreens.com made its debut. The information. They did not back the site up site’s underlying and very special feature has been that it can be edited and added

to when interested scholars and commu- The Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation is a nonprofit statewide membership organization established by a special act nity members submit information to our of the State Legislature in 1975. Working with local preservation groups and individuals as well as with statewide organizations, it encourages, advocates and facilitates historic preservation throughout Connecticut. office, without having to involve technol- Board of Trustees Gubernatorial Appointees Connecticut Preservation News is published ogy experts, a feature that won both state Theodore F. Ells, Branford bimonthly by the Connecticut Trust for Officers Historic Preservation, 940 Whitney Avenue, and national awards. Over the years, we Jeffry Muthersbaugh, Chairman, Bethel Natalie Ketcham, Redding Hamden, Connecticut 06517. Publication is Walter Fiederowicz, Vice Chairman, Litchfield Edith Pestana, Hartford made possible by support of the members have corrected errors in the original data, of the Connecticut Trust for Historic Adrienne Farrar Houel, Secretary, Bridgeport Advisory Council Preservation and by funds provided through re-drawn maps, added memorials and flag- Edmund Schmidt, Treasurer, Darien William R. Crowe, Canton the Community Investment Act, Public Act Stanley G. Fullwood, Assistant Treasurer, Jared Edwards, West Hartford 05-228, Connecticut Commission on Culture poles and gazebos to the greens, and even & Tourism, State of Connecticut, M. Jodi Rell, North Granby Gerald Farrell, Jr., Wallingford Governor. The contents and opinions stated answered e-mails about what town events Additional Members of the Mimi Findlay, New Canaan herein do not necessarily reflect the views Board of Trustees John Herzog, Madison and policies of the State of Connecticut. The will occur on a particular green on a par- Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation Martha Alexander, New Haven Lee Kuckro, Wethersfield assumes no responsibility for the Joan Carty, Bridgeport Stephen S. Lash, Stonington advertisements. William W. Crosskey, II, AIA, Bolton Charles T. Lee, Greenwich This program receives State financial assis- Leroy Diggs, Danbury Peter Malkin, Greenwich tance for identification and protection of historic properties. Under Title VI of the Inger McCabe Elliott, Stonington Cesar Pelli, New Haven Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Section 504 Margaret Fezcko, Westport The Hon. Andrew Roraback, Goshen of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the U.S. Lynn Friedman, Madison John W. Shannahan, Suffield Department of the Interior prohibits Upcoming Meetings of the discrimination on the basis of race, color, Connecticut Historic Glenn Geathers, Hartford Staff national origin, or handicap in its federally Kristin Hawkins, Hamden Helen Higgins, Executive Director assisted programs. If you believe you have Preservation Council Bill Hosley, Enfield been discriminated against in any program, Christopher Wigren, Deputy Director activity, or facility as described above, or if you December 6, 2008, at 9:30 a.m. Charles Janson, Darien Pamela Gallagher, Director of Development desire further information, please write to the Theresa Kidd, Haddam Brad Schide, Connecticut Circuit Rider Office for Equal Opportunity, U.S. Department March 13, 2008, at 9:30 a.m. Ralph Knighton, Bloomfield of the Interior, Washington, D.C. 20240. Gregory Farmer, Connecticut Circuit Rider James McLaughlin, Durham © 2008, Connecticut Trust for Historic Jane Montanaro, Membership Services Preservation. All rights reserved. State Historic Preservation Board Edward W. Munster, Haddam Todd Levine, Peservation Services ISSN 1084-189X March 13, 2008, at 9:30 a.m. Donald Poland, Hartford Elizabeth Hart Malloy, George Purtill, Glastonbury Website Content Manager Judith Miller Shanner, Bridgeport All meetings take place at the FiFi Sheridan, Greenwich Connecticut Preservation News Commission on Culture and Tourism, Adele Strelchun, North Canaan Editor: Christopher Wigren 1 Constitution Plaza, Hartford John B. Toomey, Jr., Bolton Editor, Historic Properties Exchange: Jane Vercelli, Thompson Todd Levine For more information call Sue Vincent, Thompson Graphic Design: David Wolfram, Middletown Printing: Kramer Printing, New Haven (860)256-2800 Jeanne Webb, Hartford The Hon. Patricia Widlitz, Guilford

 Connecticut Preservation News, January/February 2008 Book Notes

seemed bleakest, Olmsted managed to help him find work. Hartford boasts the largest collec- tion of Weidenmann’s surviving works: Bushnell Park (1860), the nation’s first urban park built with public funds; Cedar Hill Cemetery (1863), Hartford’s contri- bution to the rural cemetery movement; and the gardens of the Butler-McCook house (1865) on Main Street, owned by the Antiquarian and Landmarks Society. He also oversaw implementation of Olmsted’s and Calvert Vaux’s plan for the Retreat for the Insane, now the Institute for Living (1861). Other works include the grounds of the Iowa state capitol and a park in Saratoga, New York (both of which also Rudy J. Favretti, Jacob Weidenmann: survive), as well as work for the U.S. gov- Donovan Rypkema, Feasibility Pioneer Landscape Architect (Hartford: ernment in Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Assessment Manual for Reusing Cedar Hill Cemetery Foundation, Inc., Arkansas, and residential landscapes in Historic Buildings (National Trust for in cooperation with Wesleyan University Connecticut, New York, and the Midwest. Historic Preservation, 2007), 108 pages. Press, 2007), 192 pages, $49.95. In Favretti’s words, all these works “That old building isn’t good for any- Buildings last, but landscapes are much “feature[d] the natural landscape, with thing—let’s demolish it and start fresh.” more changeable. Nevertheless, they can curved and flowing walks and drives work- Preservationists know otherwise, and be very important. Interest in landscape ing in concert with the natural contours, a new publication available from the design and its role in shaping the places with plenty of green lawn between them, National Trust’s Preservation Books series where humans live grew immensely in all enhanced with trees, shrubs, and bodies will help them make an informed and real- the 19th century, as the Romantic move- of water.” istic argument for reuse. ment fostered appreciation for nature and In addition to designing landscapes The Feasibility Assessment Manual for inspired designers to make buildings that Weidenmann worked to establish landscape Historic Buildings, by real estate consul- harmonized with nature. architecture as a recognized profession. To tant Donovan Rypkema, provides a step- This resulted in the creation of a new educate the general public he published by-step process and a set of questions to profession, that of landscape architect. three books on landscape architecture. To enable an assessment team to determine Early names that are well known include ensure a supply of well trained, professional whether or not a building project is feasible Andrew Jackson Downing and Frederick landscape architects, he took apprentices and then prepare a written report to sup- Law Olmsted. Much less well known is into his office as well as proposing curricu- port the team’s findings. Following the Jacob Weidenmann (1829-1893), whose la for professional education. Unfortunately steps set out in the manual, the feasibil- life and work are described in a new book Weidenmann died before Harvard estab- ity team begins by identifying objectives, by Rudy Favretti. lished the nation’s first degree program in gathering and evaluating information, and Born in Switzerland, Weidenmann landscape architecture, in 1900. finally reaching a conclusion as to feasibil- early recognized his interest in landscape. Like Weidenmann, Rudy Favretti is a ity of reusing the building. A CD-ROM At a time when the term landscape archi- landscape architect, author, and educator. includes Microsoft Excel spreadsheets to tecture did not yet exist, he managed to He has studied and restored historic land- help team members calculate capital costs, cobble together studies in architecture, scapes from Florida to New Hampshire, income and expenses, and operating costs. engineering, sketching, and botany, all written numerous books on the subject The manual includes an outline for of which would be of use to him in his (some with his wife, Joy), and taught for the final report, which allows the team to career. Weidenmann supplemented his more than 30 years at the University of organize its research into a logical format studies with travel to California, Panama Connecticut. With his wife Favretti spent to answer the question, “Is the project and South America before settling in the some 40 years studying Weidenmann’s life feasible?” United States in 1856. After living in New and career, traveling to see his works, Order from Preservation Books, York for a few years, he moved Hartford. visiting his homeland, and patiently follow- www.preservationbooks.org, (202) 588- Professional reversals led Weidenmann ing leads from across the country. 6296. to move to New York in 1874, where he Jacob Weidenmann is clearly a work of love, —Reprinted with permission from spent the rest of his life, except for a brief and a valuable resource for understanding www.ptvermont.org, website of and unsuccessful to establish a practice 19th-century landscape design. The Preservation Trust of Vermont in Chicago. Fortunately, whenever things —Christopher Wigren

Connecticut Preservation News, January/February 2008  New Listings on the National Register

Civic Improvements Ohno Kate

n the late 19th and early 20th America the organization I centuries, Connecticut’s booming focused on language pres- industrial economy sparked not only popu- ervation, but the building’s lation growth in the state’s cities and towns castellated design reflects but also an increase in civic consciousness. Schlaraffia’s traditions. The Among other things, this consciousness organization’s membership expressed itself in religious, cultural and dwindled during World social organizations as expressions of cul- War II and in 1946 the tural enlightenment and as means of pro- building was transferred viding social grounding in the increasingly to the Swedish Historical impersonal cities. Another expression was Society. Today it continues renewed greater interest in urban planning its social and ethnic func- and embellishment. Four buildings recently tions as a clubhouse for the added to the National Register of Historic Knickerbocker Golf Club, Places illustrate these trends, as described whose members are primar- in excerpts from their nominations. ily African-American. —Leah Glaser Trinity Methodist Episcopal Old Saybrook’s former Town Hall and Theater, with its monumental Church, New Britain. The Former Old portico supported by two pairs to two-story-tall Doric columns, is still an imposing presence on the town’s Main Street. For more than 110 years this building Saybrook Town was the home of the Trinity Methodist Hall and Theater Episcopal Church; it is now being re-used housed town government offices from the Old Saybrook Musical and Dramatic as a performing arts center known as 1911 until 2004, as well as providing a Club—which contributed the land and Trinity-on-Main. The church is a stel- theater and meeting hall. The combina- $1,332.50 toward construction costs—and lar and extremely intact example of the tion of town hall and theater was common spearheaded by leading citizens. Designed Richardsonian Romanesque style and one at the turn of the 20th century, but few by New London architect James Sweeney, of the highlights of the career of architect municipal buildings were constructed with the building is a fine example of the Amos P. Cutting (1839-1896). Cutting’s such broad-based community support or Colonial Revival style. It is currently design displayed one of the prevailing with such an emphasis on the role of the being renovated as the Katharine Hepburn architectural styles of the period on the arts in civic improvements. Construction Cultural Arts Center. exterior while containing a classic example was truly a home-grown effort, sparked by of the “Akron Plan” on the interior. The building’s prominent location and striking The architectural design of the Schlaraffia Burg wedded the building’s function with its form: a castellated design testify to a time when New Britain building to compliment the medieval-inspired traditions of the Schlaraffia. was at the height of its economic power C. Wigren and when the congregation was robust and optimistic. —James Sexton

Schlaraffia Burg, New Haven. This building stands as a testament to the efforts of the German immigrant commu- nity to congregate, socialize, and preserve their culture during the turmoil of the inter-war period. Unlike many other ethnic groups in the city, the New Haven German community left few written records or visible traces, apart from this structure, constructed in 1926 for the Schlaraffia Nova Portus German and Educational Social Club, a branch of an international fraternal order founded in Prague in 1859. Originally a venue for theater, literature and music in mock-medieval settings, in

 Connecticut Preservation News, January/February 2008 AHS,Inc.

The architect of the Putnam Railroad Station is unknown; the plans may have been prepared by the staff of the New Haven Railroad, which repeatedly reused basic designs for its buildings, altering them in size, orientation, and level of detail to meet different circumstances.

The Putnam Railroad Station rail junction, and an even busier place. The patterned brickwork, leaded windows and recalls the importance of rail transporta- present station was built in 1905-1907 as terra-cotta gable coping. It remains one of tion in making Putnam into a city and a civic improvement project, creating not downtown Putnam’s most distinguished connecting the community with the larger only a new and more functional passenger turn-of-the century buildings. world. It was the coming of the Norwich depot, but also re-routing streets, widening —Bruce Clouette and Worcester Railroad in 1840 that trans- a key railroad underpass, and enlarging the formed Putnam from a series of discon- local railway express facilities. The station tinuous mill villages to a single settlement also embodies several key characteristics with its own character. The addition of a of early 20th-century architecture, such second railroad in 1870, the Boston-to- as its Mediterranean Revival Spanish-tile New York “Air Line,” made Putnam into a roof and its Tudor/Elizabethan Revival

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Connecticut Preservation News, January/February 2008  Around the State C. Wigren

New Haven. Fire devastated a block in the Ninth Square National Register district on December 12. The fire began on Center Street, in a building housing the Brass Monkey nightclub, and spread to four other neighboring buildings. The most prominent was the former S. S. Kresge store, an L-shaped structure facing both Church and Chapel streets. The city hopes that the Church Street facade can be saved, but as CPN goes to print it is not sure that the owner is willing to do so. The fire represents a setback in the Ninth Square district, where revital- ization has been steadily progressing for many years. McCormack Baron Inc., a St. Louis developer, converted a number of the district’s buildings to apartments in the 1990s, although street-level commercial spaces have been slower to fill in. In more recent years, additional buildings have been The Kresge Building in New Haven, damaged by fire in December. redeveloped as condominiums (see CPN, November/December 2004). Two of the condo buildings were evacuated during the Westport. fire, but suffered no serious damage. The town Historic District Commission allowed recreation of missing elements such Understandably, the City’s main concern (HDC) has completed restoration of a as the porch benches. is clearing the mess and helping the dis- town-owned building to provide affordable Funding for the $268,000 restoration placed merchants, but the long-term health housing for municipal employees and dem- has come from the town funds, and HDC of the shopping district will be helped by onstrate good preservation practices. chair Morley Boyd reported in November sympathetic infill building and uses. The Emily McLaury house, located at that the project was expected to come in In the meantime, there was continued 99 Myrtle Avenue, was purchased by the just under budget. activity in the district as just a block away, town of Westport in 1972 for the pur- “From a historic district commission Becker & Becker Associates were breaking pose of expanding the municipal parking standpoint it’s really been a boon,” says ground for a new mixed-use development lot behind it. Since that time, the town Boyd. “It’s in a very high visibility loca- on the Shartenberg Block, a parcel that has rented the house. By 2005, however, tion, with a big sign saying ‘Restoration in had stood vacant since being cleared under increased appreciation for the house’s progress.’” In addition to providing needed Urban Renewal in 1976. architectural character, along with the first housing, the project has helped the HDC selectman’s desire to provide affordable demonstrate the benefits of preservation to housing, especially for emergency respond- developers, builders and the public. Boyd ers, prompted the move to preserve the says that it has inspired some local builders structure. to reconsider reusing rather than demolish- Charles E. Cutler, one of Westport’s ing historic houses—a near-miraculous most prominent architects, designed the result in a town where a local affairs web- modest dwelling in the early 1920s for his site features the “Teardown of the Day”. wife’s cousin, Emily McLaury. Executed in Boyd concludes, “It’s given us a the Colonial Revival style the house retains certain credibility that we wouldn’t have nearly all of its important original fea- had.” tures. It was designated as a Local Historic Landmark in 2005 and is also listed in the For more information and more photos, State Register of Historic Places. Cutler’s visit www.westportct.gov/government/boards/ daughter served on the restoration com- mclauryhouse.htm. The “Teardown of the mittee. She provided historic photos that Day” can be found at www.westportnow.com.

 Connecticut Preservation News, January/February 2008 The Most Important Threatened Historic Places—Updates

Colt Amory, Hartford (2001). tion. Connecticut preservationists revised to its successful completion.” On December 5, the Landmarks the nomination to address the issue of his- The conversion, by Robert MacFarlane Committee of the National Park Advisory toric integrity. They also expanded the area of Homes for America Holdings, is one of Board voted unanimously to desig- being considered to include not only the Hartford’s most prominent redevelopment nate Coltsville as a National Historic factory buildings, but also the former work- projects, slowly progressing despite numer- Landmark. This is not the final step, but ers’ housing on Huyshope and Curcombe ous difficulties and setbacks. Rebekah it was the important one, and the remain- Streets, Colt Park, the buildings at the MacFarlane, of Homes for America ing steps are expected to follow automati- Church of the Good Shepherd, and the Colt Holdings, said that although NHL status cally. The vote will be approved by the full houses on Wethersfield Avenue (Armsmear, might bring some money to the project, the Advisory Board at its next meeting, and Samuel and Elizabeth Colt’s mansion, is recognition was more important. Landmark then the Secretary of the Interior will make already a NHL in its own right). designation is also seen as a step in the pro- a formal designation. This process could A leader in the effort was Representative cess of creating a national park at Coltsville. take six months, but worries regarding John Larson (D-1st District). In August Historian Bruce Clouette, who co- Landmark designation are now over. he said, “Recognizing Coltsville’s heritage authored the National Register nomination Just over a year earlier, the Landmarks and the role of Samuel and Elizabeth Colt for the Colt complex in the 1970s and col- Committee had turned down the site for in shaping Hartford and revolutionizing laborated on the NHL nomination, com- listing, on the grounds that conversion of American business will be an important step mented, “My hope is that this will now be the factory buildings to apartment and in revitalizing the city. The whole commu- the first in a series of positive outcomes, as office uses would damage the site’s historic nity, including federal, state, and local gov- we look forward to continuing the process integrity (see CPN, November/December ernment officials have worked together to for National Park Service participation at 2006). make great improvements to the application the site and as we wish the MacFarlanes well Two months after the Landmark for National Historic Landmark status. I as they navigate through these difficult eco- Committee’s vote, the National Park will continue to work closely with everyone nomic times.” Service agreed to reconsider the nomina- gathered tonight to see this project through

Westport Historic District Commission

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Connecticut Preservation News, January/February 2008  A Cautionary Tale, cont’d from page 1

what could and couldn’t be done to the parts have reportedly been saved, but a vast requiring that only qualified contractors may house. It contains language about preserv- amount has been disposed of, including demolish buildings. However, there is no ing the house’s “historical, architectural, plaster, lath, and perhaps interior trim. Is licensing requirement for contractors disas- and cultural qualities”—which could be this demolition or disassembly for eventual sembling historic buildings for reassembly. interpreted as referring to actual historic re-assembly? In addition, towns can enact waiting material—and also about preserving its Richetelli insists that it is disassembly, periods for the demolition of historic build- “appearance”—which doesn’t necessarily not demolition, citing a letter written in ings, to allow consideration of alternatives. require preserving historic building materi- August on behalf of Westwoods by Grosso Milford has such a delay ordinance, which als. Preservationists, focused on the first Custom Builders LLC, of Stratford and mandates a 45-day waiting period before phrase, have decried the loss of so much saying, “…we intend to dismantle the demolishing any structure constructed historic material. The developer and mayor, house located at 72 Old Field Lane. A before 1902, unless the both the building concentrating on the second, emphasize the new house will be built on the property inspector and the city historian waive the preservation of what the public sees. using the post and beam structure, and delay. The delay was never invoked for the Further, the document seems to contra- other various items from the dismantled Merwin house, and Platt was never informed dict itself about what specific alterations house, and as per the guidelines set forth of the pending demolition, because officials are to be permitted. On one hand, “the in the Historic Preservation Covenant…” judged that no demolition was taking place. exterior location of windows, doors, The mayor justifies the disassembly on the A basic problem is that Connecticut law porches, chimneys and rooflines may be grounds that extensive rot and mold made never defines what is meant by ‘demolition.’ altered, moved, removed or otherwise it impossible to move the structure intact. This lack has led to numerous tales of devel- changed.” On the other, “the exterior The preservationists insist that what opers who left only a few sticks of an old architectural features of the existing struc- has happened is demolition. Platt says house standing in order to circumvent stiffer ture shall remain as closely as possible to that, while observing the process, he noted regulations on new construction, and it the present configuration.” random piles of building materials, not the could conceivably offer unscrupulous devel- Another problem is that enforcement of neat stacks required for reassembly. None opers a way around preservation laws. the easement is put into the hands of the of the framing members appeared to be Dismantling a building entails as much mayor. While the current mayor, James marked so that builders would know how risk of injury as demolishing one, so it seems Richetelli, is interested in historic preserva- they fit together. “This isn’t going to be the logical that a permit ought to be required tion, there is no guarantee that his succes- Merwin house,” he argues. “It’s going to be in either case. Similarly, delay of demolition sors will share that interest, much less that an entirely new house with a few old beams periods ought to apply to the dismantling of he or they will have any expertise in stuck on for atmosphere.” historic buildings, which always entails the dealing with historic properties. loss of historic material, as well as of historic When asked in an interview, Richetelli Demolition or disassembly? What seems setting and context, not to mention the pos- says no one ever thought to include the like a semantic squabble actually has deeper sibility that the promised reconstruction Historic District Commission even in an meaning for preservationists. Connecticut could never take place. The Connecticut advisory role. In fact, an alternative to an state law regulates demolition more closely Trust is exploring the possibility of working easement would have been to designate the than disassembly; there are requirements with legislators to correct this lack. property a local historic property under the that hazardous materials be removed and jurisdiction of the HDC, without creating utilities be cut off. There are requirements The sorest point of the Merwin house’s the new mechanism of an easement. Again, for licensing, to ensure workers’ safety by story has been the lack of involvement by the mayor says the city never thought of continued on page 9 this possibility.

According to Richetelli, the city’s Kronenberger & Sons Restoration Inc., founded in Years of successful projects and satisfied clients are efforts to craft an effective agreement were 1946, is a three-generation firm specializing in the a testament to that goal. limited by the difficulty of negotiating restoration, preservation and adaptive re-use of Our clients have included museums, municipali- period structures. ties, architects, historical societies and homeown- with the owners, who had no attachment We are craftspeople, with the knowledge, skills ers. As varied as our clients, so are their projects. to the house and merely wanted to sell and experience to return usability to older structures They have included barns, carriage houses, covered while helping them meet the bridges, churches, town halls and the property as quickly as possible, for as requirements of the 21st century. and a vast array of period homes much money as possible. “We cut the best It has been our goal to balance and out buildings. passionate interest in historic For history in the remaking, deal that we could to stop demolition,” preservation with level-headed call us, toll-free in Connecticut Richetelli said. “If we had pushed harder, professionalism. 1-800-255-0089. the house would have been demolished.” Home Improvement Contrtactor #552121

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 Connecticut Preservation News, January/February 2008 Delay of Demolition Ordinances: Suggestions from North of the Border.

“Delay of demolition ordinances provide a win- Resources Inventory. This provides a clear list of of a building is reconstructed (Skelly knows of no dow of opportunity, not a guarantee of preserva- buildings, but Skelly discourages it, as he finds it use- town that has imposed this penalty under a delay of tion,” the Massachusetts Historical Commission’s ful to be able to claim that surveys aren’t regulatory demolition ordinance, but it has been used in local Christopher Skelly told attendees at a Connecticut tools, so that property owners will be more willing historic districts) or a “poisoned ground” provision, Trust Preservation Organizations Roundtable on to cooperate with surveying. Further, surveys aren’t which forbids new construction for a set period, November 9. Skelly, Director of Local Government always complete, nor does inclusion in a survey nec- such as 2 years. Programs for the Commission, offered basic advice essarily mean that a building is significant. on making delay of demolition ordinances as effec- The third method is list-based—simply drawing More than anything else, Skelly emphasized that a tive as possible. up a list of street addresses. As with the category- successful of delay of demolition ordinance based system, it provides a clear list of what is depends on the willingness of someone in the What triggers the delay? covered, but there should be a provision for adding community to use the delay period to work Skelly described three methods of determining what buildings to the list. to find a viable alternative. Otherwise, the delay buildings are covered by the delay. The first, and is simply a delay, and not an opportunity for pres- Skelly’s preferred method, is age based, that is, it Other provisions ervation. applies to any building over a set age, provided the Skelly encouraged the inclusion of a provision for building is also found to be significant. This system lifting the delay if the local historical commission The Connecticut Trust is working on a sample delay of is simple, particularly if the town doesn’t have a determines that the building is not significant or that demolition ordinance, based on its own research and thorough survey of its historic resources, although there is no realistic hope of preservation. on Skelly’s advice. For more information, call the Trust at determining a building’s age isn’t always easy. He also recommended stiff penalties for demol- (203) 562-6312. The second method is by category, such ishing a building before the delay period expires, as State Register, National Register, or Historic such as: daily fines until the demolished portion

Milford preservationists. While it may be Whatever the reason, the result has been house’s structural integrity and provide a simple oversight, this lack smacks of a unfortunate. Had preservationists been leads to experienced restorers who could deliberate effort to exclude them from the involved, they might have been able to reinforce the structure without taking it process. Richetelli has told newspapers that draw on additional resources to strengthen apart. And their involvement would cer- he knew from the start of the developer’s and clarify the easement, or to suggest the tainly have forestalled the public rancor intention to dismantle the Merwin house, alternative of local historic property status. and the loss of trust that have besmirched but the preservation community never got They might have been able to evaluate the Milford’s real accomplishments. the message. —Christopher Wigren

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Connecticut Preservation News, January/February 2008  Archaeological Perspectives More Exciting Discoveries at the Venture Smith Archaeology Site: A Window into the Life of an 18th-Century African Prince, Ex-captive, and Free African American Merchant-Farmer By Lucianne Lavin, Ph.D. Marc Banks Marc n a gently sloping hillside above Elizabeth Malloy, Director of the O the Salmon River in Haddam Haddam Historical Society, introduced Neck lie the unassuming stone ruins of the Connecticut Trust’s readers to Venture the Venture Smith archaeology site. The Smith in her article, “Archaeology and average hiker might dismiss the stonework Preservation at Haddam Neck” (see CPN, and depressions as talus deposits and tree May/June 2006). In it she discussed some of throws. Nothing could be more mundane the initial findings of excavations directed and uninspiring. Or could it? Things are by Dr. Marc Banks and myself. That not always what they seem, for in this case archaeological project was completed in those cultural features helped uncover a 2007. This article summarizes some of our very inspiring story of one man’s endurance, findings. They show how archaeology can Clinch nails from the Venture Smith site, used in resolve, and courage in the painfully restric- support and add to what we learn from writ- small boats restored by Douglas Currie of the tive and racist world of 18th century New ten records. Mashantucket Pequot Museum. England. The archaeological finds confirm the It is the story of Broteer Furro/Venture vague references to farming and boats in Venture’s family in a race- and class-con- Smith (ca. 1729-1805), the eldest son of a Venture’s Narrative and provide previously scious world and help win the respect of his West African prince who was kidnapped unknown information on his daily life, eco- white neighbors, many of whom eulogized and sold into slavery when he was about 6 nomic status, and moral standards. More the man in a later edition of his Narrative or 9 years old. In 1738 he was bought by than 49,000 artifacts and at least eight or published in 1896. Robertson Mumsford, the steward on a nine structures including three houses, a Venture died on Sept. 19, 1805, at 77 slave ship out of Rhode Island, for four gal- blacksmith shop, a wharf, and a “pull in” for years of age and was buried in the First lons of rum and a piece of calico. Mumford boats were discovered. Some artifacts rep- Church cemetery in East Haddam, even changed Broteer’s name to Venture and resent architectural remnants and everyday though he was not a church member. His brought him to toil at his family estate on domestic activities such as window glass, tombstone was made by a professional stone Fishers Island. Venture was sold or pawned nails, hardware and padlock, broken dish cutter; it is unique in that the “cherub” several times. After many hardships and and cup fragments, vessel glass, a bone knife at its top displays Negroid features. This much hard labor, he eventually saved handle, metal cutlery, and food remains. and other artistic attributes symbolize his enough money to buy his freedom in 1765. Interestingly, no liquor bottles or smok- high standing in local white society. Every Venture the free man was 36 years old; he ing pipes were found that date to Venture’s year on September 19th, the East Haddam had been a slave for about 30 years. time, suggesting that he neither drank nor Historical Society and The First Church For the next ten years Venture toiled smoked. Society commemorate Venture with a to buy the freedom of his wife Meg and Other artifacts represent clothing, weap- eulogy, presentations by historians and their three children; he then moved to the onry, and recreational activities, such as archaeologists, and the placing of a wreath Connecticut Valley and in 1775 bought ten metal and bone buttons, an early 19th cen- on the grave. acres of land on Haddam Neck. By 1798, tury pistol, and mouth harps. Some indicate Venture Smith’s story has been told in Venture’s homestead had grown to over farming: ox and horse shoes and the remains books, several international conferences, 100 acres with three houses. We know this of a barn complex with agricultural tool poems by the State Poet Laureate Marilyn because Venture dictated his autobiography fragments. Nelson, a school curriculum, and, most to a local white schoolteacher, who pub- Several hand-made nails were identified recently, the BBC’s 2007 film “A Slave’s lished it in that year as A Narrative of the by the staff of the Mystic Seaport Museum Story”. Venture Smith has become an Life and Adventures of Venture, A Native of as a special type used for building small international hero and role model for Africa: But resident above sixty years in the boats. A boat caulking iron, boat-related everyone. United State of America. Related by Himself. hardware, and lead baling seals for shipping In the book, Venture credits his success to goods were also recovered. These artifacts For more information, see Lucianne Lavin frugality and a strong work ethic. and the “pull in” support Venture’s state- and Marc Banks, “Venture’s Nails,” archaeology, The Narrative touches lightly on ment that he was a mariner, and they show May/June, 2007, page 72. Venture’s economic endeavors to win his that he repaired and possibly built his own Lucianne Lavin is the Director of Research & family’s freedom and provide for them in vessels. Some of the metalwork was probably Collections at the Institute for American Indian Haddam Neck. One sentence mentions accomplished in the adjacent blacksmith Studies, a museum and educational and research a “farm”, and two sentences report his shop. center in Washington, Connecticut. This article involvement in “fishing and trafficking In effect, these archaeological remains was adapted from one that appeared in the business” possessing “of boats, canoes, and symbolize maritime activities that pro- Institute’s 2007 Newsletter, The Birdstone, with sail vessels, not less than twenty.” vided the cash income to free and sustain the permission of its Executive Director.

10 Connecticut Preservation News, January/February 2008 Trust Unveils Grants for Historic Barns T.Levine n the past two years, the Connecticut I Trust has surveyed almost 900 barns across the state. This survey has yielded a wealth of information about Connecticut’s agricultural history and buildings, but it has also highlighted the threats that face many historic barns and related structures (see “The Most Important Threatened Historic Places,” CPN, September/October 2006). In December the Trust took a step toward helping these endangered build- ings when the Board of Trustees approved a new grant program dedicated to historic barns. This program will allow the Trust to help owners evaluate buildings for struc- tural integrity, for historic significance and for feasible uses other than agricultural. The goal is to distribute at least $25,000 in grants by June 30. The grants will be funded through the Connecticut General Watertown Assembly, the Connecticut Humanities Council and the Commission on Culture Trust’s web site for historic barns, www. For more information on Barn Grants or and Tourism. connecticutbarns.org, for accuracy and other historic barns initiative programs, visit The grants will be offered to non-profit completeness. www.cttrust.org or www.connecticutbarns.org. and municipal barn owners, as well as to To add even more barns to the survey, private owners—a sector for which little, if Preservation Services officer Todd Levine any, help is currently available. Applicants plans to offer at least four barn survey should be able to demonstrate community- training sessions for local preservation- level significance, support from a local ists during the winter and spring. Already historical organization or municipality or scheduled are sessions in South Windsor, from a local agricultural group, and a public on January 10, and in Mansfield, on benefit from the grant. February 21. Finally, in order to share its The Trust’s barns grants can be used new-found information about barns and for assessments of historic integrity and barn preservation with the public, the structural conditions, nominations to the Trust is working to expand www.connect- National Register, evaluation of adaptive icutbarns.org and exploring the possibil- use opportunities, following Donavan ity of publishing a book on Connecticut Rympkema’s Feasibility Assessment Manual barns. Suffield, CT Tel. 860-254-5498 for Re-using Historic Properties (see page 3), www.elmore-design.com or any combination of these options. The maximum grant is $8,000, with a cash match required under some circumstances. In addition to the new grants program, the Trust is continuing a number of other barn-related activities through the winter and spring of 2008. One goal is to add 800 more listings to the inventory of historic barns by the end of June. Two interns, Melissa Antonelli, of Roger Williams University, and Ryan Bova, from Central Connecticut State University, will perform much of this work, assisted by volunteer researcher Charlotte Hitchcock, of New Haven. At the same time, the team will n Kitchens & Bathrooms n Period Additions n Carpentry & Millwork double-check listings already posted on the n Window Restoration n Plaster Restoration n Structural Repairs

Connecticut Preservation News, January/February 2008 11 Falling plaster sparked preservation Technical Assistance Grants Fund discussions at Center Church in Hartford. G. Farmer G. Projects across Connecticut

he Connecticut Trust awarded Burlington Historical T $198,216 in Historic Preservation Society Burlington: Technical Assistance Grants to non-profit organizations and municipalities from designs for sympathetic across the state in October. addition to the Brown- The grants are part of a collabora- Elton Tavern, $7,900. The tive historic preservation technical assis- addition will house offices and bath- tance program of the Connecticut Trust rooms, allowing restoration of addi- for Historic Preservation, with funding tional spaces in the tavern itself to from the Connecticut General Assembly, their original appearance. The tavern the Connecticut Humanities Council is listed on the National Register. and the Commission on Culture and Tourism. They support efforts that help Canton Historical Society, communities plan for the preservation, Canton: preservation and restoration and rehabilitation of historic renovation plan for the buildings and places. Canton Historical Society First Church of Christ, Museum, $13,850. Renovation will The Mushroom Barn, Bloomfield Hartford: capital needs make the museum, originally part of the

G. Farmer G. Collins axe company, more visible and assessment, $8,000. This study improve its accessibility. The building is will allow the congregation to create an part of the Collinsville National Register appropriate maintenance plan for its meet- district. ing house, listed on the National Register, and parish house. Stanley-Whitman house, Farmington: updated his- Hartford Preservation Alliance, Hartford: training toric structure report, $7,000. Updates will include a maintenance plan workshops, $2,000. Six workshops for this National Historic Landmark, den- will help building owners and contractors drochronology (see CPN, March/April comply with Hartford’s new preservation 2006) to determine more accurately the ordinance, which protects more than 4,000 construction date, and a symposium to buildings. publicize the results. Connecticut 4-H Milford Historical Society, Development Fund Inc., Historical Society for the Milford: historic structures Bloomfield: preservation plan Town of Greenwich: local report and restoration plan, for the “Mushroom Barn,” historic district study for the $7,500. The society hopes to under- stand better its three museum houses— $4,000. The Fund wants to study the Sachem Road area of Cos the Eels-Stowe house (listed on the history of this unusual agricultural build- Cob, $2,800. Formation of a local National Register), the Clark-Stockade ing and explore adaptive use, including historic district is seen as a way to preserve house, and the Bryan-Downs house— possible educational programs. the architectural and historic character of and plan for their maintenance. this neighborhood. Town of Bolton: preservation Westville Village Renaissance and restoration plan for the Hamden Historical Society, Hamden: State Register and Alliance, New Haven: restora- Heritage Farm House and tion plans for the Miles Elezar Barn, $10,000. Recommendations State Archaeological Preserve Hotchkiss house, $25,000. for repairs, suggestions for adaptive use, nominations for Jepp’s Brook WRA bought this abandoned Greek and an archeological study are planned for Mill site, $3,361. This historic Revival structure to save it from demolition this farm, listed on the National Register industrial site once included a grain mill, and hopes to redevelop it for community and designated a State Archeological two saw mills, and a distillery. and educational activities. Preserve.

12 Connecticut Preservation News, January/February 2008 Area Cooperative Educational Norwich Historical Society, Library is a contributing resource in the Services, New Haven: pres- Norwich: historic neighbor- Sherman National Register district. ervation plan for the Little hoods presentation, $6,000. Theatre on Lincoln Street, The presentation, on the character, archi- Wethersfield Historical Society, Wethersfield: historic $25,000. Plans for this theater, listed tecture and history of Norwich neighbor- on the National Register, include updated hoods, is seen as a way to build community structure report and preser- systems and production technology, pride and promote preservation. vation plan for the Captain improved accessibility, and a sympathetic James Francis house, $20,000. addition. Roxbury Historic District Careful study will help the society restore Commission, Roxbury: and interpret this house, a contributing New Haven Preservation National Register nomina- resource to the Wethersfield National Trust, New Haven: strategic tion for the Roxbury railroad Register district. plan, $6,000. The Preservation Trust station, $3,000. The nomination will hire a consultant to facilitate strategic will document the history of the station Woodbridge Conservation planning. and surrounding buildings and encourage Commission, Woodbridge: appropriate new use. preservation and restoration Connecticut College, New plan for the Massaro farm, London: historic structure Christ Church Episcopal, $3,000. The commission plans to report and National Register Sharon: evaluation of exterior restore the farmhouse and barn on this nomination for the Steel brick, $7,200. A specialist will be town-owned property as a working com- munity-supported farm. House, $7,000. The college plans hired to investigate the causesIO #:A66249 of deterio Date:07/20/07- Day:FRI Size:2X3 Cust:ERIC JACKSON CHIM- rating locally-made bricks atNEY the Salesperson:36 church Last Edited By:SNICASTRO Pub:A-OTHERS Tag Line: to develop a stabilization plan for this rare FREE AD Color Info: prefabricated house erected in 1933 and and other buildings in explore possibilities for adaptive use. Sharon, and to recom- mend solutions. Bring new life New London County Historical Society, New Sherman to old chimneys © London: preservation plan for Library FEATURING thermocrete , an Association, efficient, cost effective sprayable the Shaw Mansion, $7,500. cement system for enhancing the The society plans to create an accessible Sherman: safety of old, unlined chimneys. expansion It has a lifetime warranty and is bathroom and classroom and find ways to tested to UL Standards. Excellent improve environmental conditions in its plans, $10,000. references throughout Southern artifact storage spaces. The design will link New England. See our website the library with an www.thermocreteusa.com Town of New Milford: unused barn, which Eric Jackson Chimney, llc A66249 will be adapted as a since 1982 structural evaluation and Chimney Relining Experts • Repair and Restoration • Complete Chimney Service meeting space. The Burlington, CT 06013 • Phone/Fax: (860) 404-8853 • Toll-free: (800) 518-9982 restoration plan for the Member, Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation Larson barn and outbuildings, $9,000. The town is studying ways to use this historic barn and other farm WE SELL OLDHartford LIGHTS Courant buildings preserved when a high school was THIS ADVERTISEMENT IS SCHEDULED FOR PUBLICATION built on the property. We buy and sell restored antique lightingPLEASE FAx at good prices CORRECTIONS TO: Norwalk Preservation Trust, We offer a ATwide variety HOME of period lighting from the late 1800s through the 1930s – Norwalk: preservation web Victorian Arts & Crafts, Art Nouveau and more.Whether it’s an amazing860-241-6797 chandelier for or portal, $3,105. A dynamic, interac- Pleaseyour dining area or an unusual sconce for the bedroom, no one works harder than we do to create that perfect look. 860-241-3325 tive website will connect the general public Respond 12 pm TUESDAY with the local preservation community. You’ll love our lights PHONE: 860-241-3713 OR 860-241-6396 Before: PRIOR TOWE PUBLICATION GUARANTEE IT! TOLL FREE: 1-800-524-4242, ExT. 3713 OR 6396 860-676-2713 (Leave a message if we’re not there) email: [email protected] • OLD LIGHTS ON • Farmington, CT

Connecticut Preservation News, January/February 2008 13 no less than 5 percent of the agreement value. Within next highest ranked consultant or seek new submittals LEGAL NOTICE the letter of interest submittal, you must include the in accordance with subsection (d) of CGS 4-252 and Historic and Archaeological Resource Services designated certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise subsection (d) of CGS 4a-81. Further information on Request for Letters of Interest (DBE) subconsultant(s) which you plan to use. The these requirements can be obtained online at http://www. DBE subconsultant(s) must be currently certified by the ct.gov/opm via the Ethics Affidavits link on the right-hand The Connecticut Department of Transportation Department. All firms are advised that the prime consultant side of the web page. (Department) is seeking to engage a cultural resource con- must perform the major part of the work with employees For all State contracts, as defined in P.A. 07-1, hav- sulting firm for historic and archaeological resource services of the firm. Subconsultants may be used to comply with ing a value in a calendar year of $50,000 or more or a on a “task order” basis. DBE requirements or perform specialized work. Joint ven- combination or series of such agreements or contracts The services to be performed by the selected firm turing assignments will not be allowed. having a value of $100,000 or more, the authorized shall include archaeological investigations and historic docu- Do not send additional documentation other than signatory to this submission in response to the State’s mentation studies for transportation projects in accordance what is requested. The Consultant Selection Panel may solicitation expressly acknowledges reviewing of the with State and Federal regulations. The firm selected for this reject your submittal, and your firm may not be considered State Elections Enforcement Commission’s (SEEC) notice assignment will be required to have archaeological labora- for this project if you provide additional documentation advising state contractors of state campaign contribution tory capabilities in house. such as corporate brochures, background information, and and solicitation prohibitions, and will inform its principals The scope and fee for each task under the agreement histories. of the contents of the notice. The SEEC Form 11 can be will be negotiated separately. The agreement period will Prior to the negotiation process, the selected firm found online at www.ct.gov/SEEC by clicking on the State be for three years, with up to twelve tasks anticipated. The will be required to have a Department-approved audit and Contractor Contribution Ban in the left hand column. agreement may be extended for a period not to exceed affirmative action plan, as well as current corporate registra- SEEC Form 11 is hereby made a part of this solicitation. one year to complete work assigned during the previous tion with the Secretary of State (partnerships excluded). Circumstances may require the rescheduling or three years only. The selected firm will also be required to maintain insur- cancellation of projects. Should this be necessary, the If your firm desires to be considered for this assign- ance coverage from a firm licensed to do business in the Department would be under no obligation to provide ment, your submittal should consist of a one-page letter of State of Connecticut. Proof of coverage must be submitted supplementary work for the firm selected for this assign- interest and Department Form CSO 255 with a maximum on Department Forms CON-32 and DOC-001 prior to the ment. The Department reserves the right to award of five resumes. One of the resumes must be that of the start of the negotiations process. assignments to other qualified firms. proposed Project Manager in charge of the work, as well as Please be advised, that as of August 1, 2007, the Office The Department reserves the right to add addi- the assurance that he/she will be available for work when of Policy and Management has updated its contracting tional projects of a similar nature for a separate selection required. Four copies of the submittal are required, affidavits and certifications, as well as the timeline of when should additional projects become available prior to the and they must be postmarked by Friday February 1, these documents are required to be completed, signed and interview phase of the selection process. 2008, or, if hand delivered by 4:00 p.m. on that date. returned. For the purposes of Form 1 (Gift and Campaign All submittals shall be addressed as follows: (The CSO 255 form can be found online at www.ct.gov/ Contribution Certification), the planning date is defined as Ms. Cynthia Holden dot/consultant.) the date when the Commissioner granted approval to hire Transportation Assistant Planning Director Included in the submittal must be a brief narra- a consultant. For this project, the planning date is August Connecticut Department of Transportation tive summarizing your current workload, description of 23, 2007. This is the date the selected firm must use when 2800 Berlin Turnpike proposed staff, qualifications, and discipline experience completing Form 1 at the time the agreement/contract P.O. Box 317546 and expertise in the following: (1) Section 106 of the is executed in accordance with the Connecticut General Newington, CT 06131-7546 National Historic Preservation Act; (2) The Environmental Statute (CGS) Section 4-252 and Executive Order No. 7C, Review Primer on Connecticut’s Archaeological Resources; paragraph 10. Please be advised that Form 5 (Consulting Hand delivered submittals must be brought (3) The National and Connecticut Environmental Policy Agreement Affidavit), in its revised format (Rev. 08-01-07), to the Bureau of Policy and Planning, Room 2146 Acts; (4) Research and Data Gathering; (5) Phase 1 and must be completed and one copy should be submitted no later than 4:00 p.m. on Friday February 1, 2008. 2 Archaeological Surveys; (6) Phase 3 Data Recovery with your letter-of-interest package. Please do not staple or All inquiries regarding this Request for Letters-of- Procedures; (7) Industrial Archaeology; (8) Historic bind the affidavit in your submittal package. Forms 1 and 5 Interest shall be directed to Ms. Simone Cristofori, of the American Buildings and Engineering Records as well as State apply to all consulting agreements/contracts which have a Consultant Selection Office, at (860) 594-3017. Level Historic Documentation; (9) Laboratory Processing; total value to the State of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) (10) Report Writing; (11) Electronic Media Presentations; or more in a calendar or fiscal year. Any consultant that Connecticut Department of (12) Project Management; and (13) Familiarity with does not make the certifications required under subsection Department Policies Procedures and Standards. (c) of CGS 4-252 or refuses to submit the affidavit required Transportation An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer You are advised that a disadvantaged business sub- under subsection (b) of CGS 4a-81 shall be disqualified consultant goal applies to this project. The goal will be and ConnDOT shall award the agreement/contract to the

Preservation Circle JOIN THE CONNECTICUT TRUST! ■ Chairman’s Circle $ 1,000 ■ Preservation Patron $ 500 Name ■ Mr. ■ Mrs. ■ Ms. ■ Miss ______■ Circuit Rider Sponsor $ 250 Street______■ Heritage Partner $ 100 City ______State _____ Zip______Basic Membership Telephone (______)______■ Business $ 100 ■ Non-profit/Municipal $ 75 Email______■ Family $ 50 Employer (for matching gift program)______■ Individual $ 40 ■ Check enclosed (payable to “Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation”) You can join the Charge my: ■ Mastercard ■ Visa ■ American Express Mail to: Connecticut Trust 940 Whitney Avenue online too, at Card Number______Hamden, CT 06517-4002 www.cttrust.org Telephone: (203) 562-6312 Exp. Date ______/______Signature______All contributions are tax deductible.

14 Connecticut Preservation News, January/February 2008 News from the State Historic Preservation Office

C. Wigren C. Commission on Culture and Tourism Moves to New Quarters s of December, the Connecticut A Commission on Culture and Tourism (CCT) has a new home. The Commission, created in 2003 to combine formerly separate offices of historic preservation, tourism, arts, and film, has long intended to bring all those offices together into a single spot, where they can better work together. That goal was realized when the offices all moved into new shared quarters in Constitution Plaza. For the Commission’s Historic Preservation and Museums Division, this move was bittersweet: since 1971 the Division and its predecessor, the Connecticut Historical Commission Hartford’s Amos Bull house, home to (CHC), had occupied the historic Amos the state historic preservation office Bull house on South Prospect Street, from 1971 to 2007. which the CHC bought and moved from Main Street to save it from demolition. The CHC’s restoration and use of the house provided a living example of historic preservation at work. In 1992 the CHC expanded its offices into the adjacent Butler-McCook carriage house. It’s a shame that the state’s historic preservation office will no longer be able visibly to practice what it preaches. However, we hope that the promise of increased agency visibility and interdisci- plinary cooperation will be realized and make up for that loss. The new mailing address for all CCT divisions is 1 Constitution Plaza, 2nd floor, Hartford, Connecticut 06103. The Historic Preservation and Museum Division will have new telephone num- bers; until they are announced, call the main number, (860) 256-2800.

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John Leeke’s Historic HomeWorks™ Decayed Wood Siding windows, cornices, etc. Some houses were painted different I just bought a farm house about 100 years old. The exterior hasn’t colors in different locations. been painted in a very long time. Several of the exterior boards have CAUTION: SANDING OLD PAINT CREATES wood rot and will be replaced. Is there any special treatment for the HAZARDOUS LEAD DUST. As you do this sanding, keep house before I paint to eliminate any more wood rot from appearing the surface damp with a spray bottle containing water and a in the future? little detergent and use wet/dry sandpaper. Wipe up residue frequently with a paper towel. For each wipe fold the paper Yes, look for patterns of paint peeling to bare wood and towel over to enclose the soiled paper and to expose fresh paper. exterior wood decay that point to sources of moisture, and then Drop paper towels in a plastic bag. Double the bag and seal eliminate or reduce the moisture. For example, if you find peel- before disposal. Wash up and change your clothes before eating ing paint or decayed wood siding in a vertical strip beneath a or smoking. Launder clothes separately from other clothes with leaking roof gutter, fix the gutter so it catches the water before it TSP. Run the rinse cycle with TSP to clean out the washer. spills down across the wall causing further decay. John Leeke is a preservation consultant who helps homeowners, contractors Paint Layer Colors and architects understand and maintain their historic buildings. You can I will be painting the exterior of my 1858 farmhouse. I am not sure contact him at 26 Higgins Street, Portland, Maine 04103, (207)773- of what colors to use. There are ads in the back of magazines to help 2306; or by email: [email protected]; or log onto his people choose the best color for their house. Should I try them, or just website at: www.HistoricHomeWorks.com. Copyright © 2004 John Leeke pick a standard “historic color” from one of the paint manufacturers? Consider “cratering” for paint evidence. You could begin by checking out what colors your house has actually been at various times in the past. In a small area (perhaps 2” x 2”) sand down through the several layers of paint. Use 100-grit sandpaper sand in a circular swirling motion, creat- ing a very shallow crater, or concave depression. A series of concentric rings of color will be revealed representing the various past layers of paint. The crater’s rim at the outer edge shows the existing top layer. Keep sanding away until the wood beneath is revealed at the lower center of the crater. Then smooth the crater’s sur- face by sanding with successively finer grits: 200, 300, 400, perhaps even 600. Wet the surface with water and examine the layers with a magnifying glass. Even if the house has always been white, you may be able to count the layers. Crater for paint color evidence in several loca- tions including siding, trim boards,

16 Connecticut Preservation News, January/February 2008