525 Purchase Street

Slated for demolition last winter was an unusual 1830s cottage at 523-525 Purchase Street.  This 1-1/2 story wood house stands on a high stone foundation and is in the County Street National Register Historic District.

After public support to save the house, the City Council voted on April 11, 2013 to impose a 12-month demolition delay. WHALE hired ASAP Engineering to conduct a structural analysis and it was determined that the house was structurally sound.  An emergency tarp was installed on the roof by R.P. Valois to stop further interior water damage and to allow the house to dry out.

The property was listed with Linda Silveira of Gold Star Realty who has a buyer under agreement.  WHALE is working with the buyer and the Preservation Society on plans for historically accurate façade renovations, including new windows and siding.  Partial funding will come from a $10,000 grant from WHALE and an additional $5,000 grant from the Preservation Society.  Both agencies will provide preservation guidance.

“This project will not only save a historic house, but also brings a new family to the downtown neighborhood who are willing to invest in restoring the historic identity of their home” noted Teri Bernert, WHALE’s Executive Director, “it is also a great partnership with the city, the Preservation Society and WHALE in an effort to retain the historic fabric of Purchase Street.”