Burlington Real Estate

Historic Description

This 1808 Federal House is listed as contributing building (#106) in the Middlebury Village Historic District. The building was built for Dr. Edward Tudor and subsequently owned by Harvey Bell, a lawyer, one of the first members of the Vermont Senate, and long time Secretary of Middlebury College. The construction of the building is attributed to David Piper, a master carpenter who is credited with the construction of the Middlebury Congregational church. In addition to its association with important individuals in Vermont history and a master carpenter, the house is significant for its age as well as its remaining architectural features, denticulated cornice, arched attic windows, keystone lintels over the transom windows to either side of the door (likely and 1830s or 40s feature), and fine parlor fireplace. Other interior features include extensive trim, flooring, doors, and many original features including its hall stair newel and baluster.

Building Description

182 South Pleasant is a 2 1/2-story timber framed Federal style dwelling built in 1808. The building has seen a number of
changes in its life and, more recently, harsh use as units of rental
housing. Nevertheless, its former elegance is evident its denticulated
cornice, arched attic windows, keystone lintels over the transom windows to
either side of the door (likely and 1830s or 40s feature), and fine parlor
fireplace. The building has a full length, 2 story rear shed addition that
appears to have built around and over the former rear kitchen ell. The side
ell is a former and earlier barn that was attached early in the building's
history and was likely converted to living space around the same time it
received asbestos siding, c 1950. Prior rehabs include a c. 1880s
renovation that replaced many of the original multi-pained windows with 2/2s
and interior trim details, and added a Victorian style porch (evidence of
this porch remains in the engaged porch post on the façade). Many original
doors remain and as well as its central stair hall, newel and balustrade
(although truncated at the top). Ground floor parlors to each side have
seen contemporary modifications and intrusions, but still convey the
original plan. Despite these interior modifications, the building retains a
high degree of exterior architectural integrity and continues to convey its
integrity of location, setting, design, felling and association.