Was it the Craftsman style that first caught your eye? Look closely at the Allyn House. It stands proudly on Oakland Avenue in Arlington Massachusetts. Built around 1898 this house is a true gem. It’s not just a house it’s a piece of history.
The Allyn House is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a testament to a bygone era. A time when skilled craftsmen poured their hearts into their work. Phillip M Allyn a Boston publisher owned this magnificent home for many years. He appreciated fine craftsmanship. He surely enjoyed the house’s unique features.
Notice the stucco exterior and the brown wooden trim. See the hip roof with its extended eaves? The dormers with their shingled sides add to its charm. The house sits on an irregular diamond-shaped lot. Unlike its neighbors it’s angled towards the street. A low rubblestone wall borders the front of the lot.
The full-height polygonal bay dominates the front facade. Note the band of narrow casement windows in the center. Single windows grace the angled sides. These details are hallmarks of the Craftsman style. Exposed rafter ends and diamond-pane windows complete the look. This house is a superb example of this architectural style.
Significant development in Arlington Heights followed the 1872 purchase of Pierce family properties. The Arlington Land Company was behind this development. The lot where the Allyn House stands was among their holdings. The house was built around 1898. Imagine the activity as it was built. The sounds of hammers and saws. The smell of fresh-cut lumber.
This wasn’t just a house. It was a home. It witnessed family gatherings and quiet evenings. It bore silent witness to the lives of the Allyn family. Their laughter their joys their sorrows. It all played out within these walls.
Today the Allyn House remains a testament to its history. It’s a reminder of the past and the skilled artisans who created it. It still stands as a beautiful example of Craftsman style architecture. This exceptional house in Arlington is a must-see. Take a moment to appreciate its beauty and its story.