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 Welcome to the Charles Hussey House According to an ancient Chinese proverb, architecture tells us many stories. On Nantucket, more than 2400 historic buildings contribute to our rich architectural heritage. Beginning with the houses built by the first English settlers in 1660, each has a story or two or more to tell us about the families who lived in them and the island’s history. Last year the NPT’s Designer Show House presented the c.1690 Starbuck-Kilvert House, one of the earliest houses built by Nantucket’s first settlers, who came to the New World and brought with them their west-of-England timber-framed building tradition. A little more than a century later, at 37 India Street, the c.1804 Charles Hussey house was built in the area known as the Wesco Acre Lots, the Town of Nantucket’s first formal division of land. The timber-frame tradition of building houses was still used on Nantucket, but by 1804 had evolved into a distinctive house type, greatly influenced by the Quakers. The Charles Hussey house is an excellent example of the typical Nantucket house, with plain but beautifully proportioned façade sited close to the sidewalk. On the inside, first and second floor rooms cluster around the massive central chimney. Pass-throughs, or small connecting halls and transom windows above the doors, ensure that no room is closed off from another. This year’s Show House is distinguished by detailed wall paneling, a gracious entry hall and stair, and beautiful wide old floorboards, in addition to the pleasure of abundant light and air provided by six-over-six-paned sash windows. The Nantucket Preservation Trust’s mission is to celebrate Nantucket’s architectural heritage. Our work is made possible by an outstanding board of directors and the community of friends who support our work through their generous financial donations and contributions of time. This year, we are truly grateful to the owners of 37 India Street, Ian and Carolyn MacKenzie, for their gift of keeping an irreplaceable 200-year-old Nantucket house for future restoration. Thanks to the MacKenzies, the visionary 2004 Show House team of designers, decorators, craftspeople and gardeners have been able to transform a challenged old inn into an appealing family home that is sure to enjoy another two centuries. Just as Nantucket’s architecture was shaped by Quaker values derived from building tradition, fine materials, craftsmanship, ordered streets and community character, the NPT’s work celebrates, shares and is shaped by the island’s unique architectural heritage through architectural programs and special events. We hope you share our appreciation for this house and we thank you for your support. |
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