Nestled in the heart of New England, colonial houses stand as testament to the region's rich history and architectural heritage. These homes, built during the 17th and 18th centuries, are not just dwellings; they are living museums that offer insights into the lives of our ancestors. Let's delve into the unique features and styles that define New England colonial houses.
New England colonial houses are characterized by their simple, functional design, reflecting the Puritan values of their builders. They were constructed to withstand the harsh winters and provide a comfortable living space for growing families. The most common styles found in the region are the Saltbox, the Cape Cod, and the Georgian.
The Saltbox House
The Saltbox house is one of the most iconic New England colonial styles. Its distinctive feature is the asymmetrical roof, with one side being steeper and longer than the other. This design allowed for additional living space in the attic, providing extra room for growing families. The Saltbox house typically has a central chimney, a large fireplace, and a center entrance.
Many Saltbox houses were built with clapboard siding, a durable and weather-resistant material that was readily available in the region. The interior often features wide plank flooring, beamed ceilings, and simple, functional furniture. The Saltbox house is a true reflection of the practical and resourceful nature of its builders.
Saltbox House Layout
The layout of a Saltbox house is typically a single room deep, with the living space on the first floor and the bedrooms in the attic. This design allowed for efficient heating, as the large fireplace in the center of the house could warm both the first and second floors. The center entrance led to a central hallway, with rooms branching off on either side.
In some Saltbox houses, a lean-to addition was built onto the back of the house, providing additional living space and a separate kitchen area. This addition was often built with a lower roof line, giving the house its distinctive asymmetrical appearance.
Saltbox House Examples
One of the best-preserved Saltbox houses in New England is the Joseph Barrell House in Kittery, Maine. Built in 1682, this house is a excellent example of the early Saltbox style, with its steep roof and central chimney. The interior features wide plank flooring and beamed ceilings, providing a glimpse into life in the 17th century.
Another notable Saltbox house is the Stephen White House in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Built in 1670, this house is one of the oldest in Plymouth and is a excellent example of the later Saltbox style, with its symmetrical facade and elegant chimneys. The interior features a large central fireplace and a winding staircase leading to the attic bedrooms.
The Cape Cod House
The Cape Cod house is another iconic New England colonial style, named for the Cape Cod peninsula where it was first popularized. This style is characterized by its steep, multi-gabled roof, which provides ample space for attic bedrooms and allows for efficient heating. The Cape Cod house typically has a central entrance, a large fireplace, and a symmetrical facade.
Cape Cod houses were often built with clapboard siding, like the Saltbox house, and featured simple, functional interiors. The layout of a Cape Cod house is typically a single room deep, with the living space on the first floor and the bedrooms in the attic. Some Cape Cod houses also feature a lean-to addition, providing additional living space and a separate kitchen area.
Cape Cod House Layout
The layout of a Cape Cod house is similar to that of a Saltbox house, with a central hallway leading to rooms on either side. The living room, dining room, and kitchen are typically located on the first floor, while the bedrooms are in the attic. The large fireplace in the center of the house provided heat for both floors.
In some Cape Cod houses, the attic was divided into smaller rooms, providing more privacy for the occupants. This was a later development in the Cape Cod style, as the need for more living space grew.
Cape Cod House Examples
One of the most famous Cape Cod houses is the Plimoth Plantation in Plymouth, Massachusetts. This replica of a 17th-century English village features several Cape Cod houses, providing a glimpse into the lives of the Pilgrims who first settled in the region.
Another excellent example of the Cape Cod style is the Jethro Coffin House in Nantucket, Massachusetts. Built in 1686, this house is one of the oldest in Nantucket and is a excellent example of the early Cape Cod style, with its steep roof and central chimney. The interior features wide plank flooring and simple, functional furniture, providing a glimpse into life in the 18th century.
New England colonial houses are more than just historic buildings; they are a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of their builders. From the practical design of the Saltbox house to the efficient heating of the Cape Cod house, these homes reflect the values and needs of the people who built them. Whether you're a history buff or simply appreciate fine architecture, a visit to New England's colonial houses is a must. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to step back in time.