Scotch-Boardman House in Saugus, Massachusetts – Legends of America
The Scotch-Boardman House, nestled in the historic town of Saugus, Massachusetts, stands as a remarkable testament to 17th-century New England architecture and life. Also known as the Boardman House or the Bennett-Boardman House, this venerable structure has captivated historians, architects, and enthusiasts alike with its enduring presence and remarkably preserved original features. Its significance lies not only in its age but also in its ability to transport visitors back in time, offering a glimpse into the lives of early American settlers and their architectural ingenuity.
Architectural Significance and Historical Acclaim
The Scotch-Boardman House has earned high praise from scholars and experts in colonial American architecture, primarily due to the exceptional preservation of its original finishes. Unlike many historical buildings that have undergone extensive renovations and modifications, the Scotch-Boardman House retains much of its original character, providing an authentic representation of early New England domestic architecture. This remarkable preservation makes it a valuable resource for understanding the construction techniques, materials, and design sensibilities of the period.
The house’s architectural integrity allows visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into its construction. From the hand-hewn beams to the original window panes, every element of the house tells a story of the past, offering insights into the lives of those who once called it home.
Debunking the Myth: Origins and Construction
For many years, a captivating legend surrounded the Scotch-Boardman House, suggesting that it was built to house Scottish prisoners captured by Oliver Cromwell during the Battle of Dunbar in 1650. According to this tale, these prisoners were transported to America to work in the ironworks at Saugus, and the house was constructed to provide them with shelter.
However, recent scholarly research has cast doubt on this romantic notion. While the area around the house was indeed associated with Scottish laborers, current evidence suggests that the present structure was built later, likely after 1686. The house may stand near the site of the original "Scotch" house, but it is not the same building that housed the Scottish prisoners.
This revised understanding of the house’s origins does not diminish its historical significance. Instead, it highlights the importance of ongoing research and critical analysis in uncovering the true stories behind historical landmarks.
Architectural Design and Layout
The Scotch-Boardman House follows a typical floor plan for family dwellings of the period. The original structure featured a two-room central chimney plan, rising two-and-a-half stories high, with a half-cellar beneath. The lean-to, a common addition to early New England homes, was added later to expand the living space.
The ground floor consists of two main rooms: the parlor on the west side and the hall or kitchen on the east side. These rooms served as the primary living spaces for the family, with the parlor used for formal gatherings and the hall or kitchen serving as the center of daily life.
Above each room, on either side of the central chimney, is a sleeping chamber. These chambers provided private spaces for family members to rest and sleep, offering a degree of privacy that was not always common in early American homes.
The central chimney played a crucial role in the house’s design, providing warmth and ventilation to all the rooms. Its massive structure also served as a focal point of the house, both functionally and aesthetically.
Exterior Features and Restoration Efforts
While the interior of the Scotch-Boardman House retains much of its original character, the exterior has undergone some changes over time. The clapboards, underboarding, roof covering, windows, and front door date almost entirely from a later period than the interior.
Recognizing the importance of preserving this historical treasure, a formal restoration was carried out between 1915 and 1918. The restoration team approached the project with great care, making minimal changes to the structure to avoid damaging the integrity of its original finishes.
Since the restoration, only essential repairs have been undertaken to ensure the house’s preservation and upkeep. This commitment to maintaining the house’s original character has allowed it to retain its authentic charm and historical value.
National Historic Landmark and Public Access
In recognition of its historical and architectural significance, the Scotch-Boardman House was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1961. This prestigious designation acknowledges the house’s importance to American history and ensures its protection for future generations.
Today, the Scotch-Boardman House is owned and maintained by Historic New England, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing New England’s historic places. The house is open to the public from June to October on the first Saturday of the month, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the world of 17th-century New England.
Visiting the Scotch-Boardman House
A visit to the Scotch-Boardman House is an enriching experience that provides a unique glimpse into the past. As you walk through the rooms, you can imagine the lives of the families who once lived there, their daily routines, and the challenges they faced in a new and unfamiliar land.
The house’s remarkably preserved original features, including the hand-hewn beams, wide-plank floors, and period furnishings, transport you to another era, allowing you to connect with history in a tangible and meaningful way.
The knowledgeable guides at the Scotch-Boardman House offer fascinating insights into the house’s history, architecture, and the lives of its inhabitants. They can answer your questions and provide a deeper understanding of the house’s significance.
Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply curious about the past, a visit to the Scotch-Boardman House is sure to leave a lasting impression. It is a reminder of the rich history and cultural heritage that shaped New England and the United States as a whole.
Practical Information for Visitors
The Scotch-Boardman House is located at 17 Howard Street, Saugus, Massachusetts 01906. It is open to the public from June to October on the first Saturday of the month.
For more information about visiting hours, admission fees, and special events, please visit the Historic New England website or contact them directly.
Conclusion
The Scotch-Boardman House stands as a remarkable survivor of 17th-century New England, offering a rare glimpse into the lives and architectural sensibilities of early American settlers. Its exceptional preservation, combined with its rich history and captivating stories, makes it a must-see destination for anyone interested in American history and architecture. As you explore its rooms and learn about its past, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of the Scotch-Boardman House and its place in American history.