Avon Hill

In 1869, a transformation began atop Jones Hill, soon to be known as Avon Hill. Two businessmen, Henry Melendez and Gilbert Dexter, purchased the hilltop’s five acres, igniting a spark that would shape Avon Hill into the architectural gem we see today. Imagine Melendez and Dexter surveying their newly acquired land, envisioning the grand homes that would soon grace its slopes. Melendez’s Second Empire masterpiece still stands proudly on Washington Street, a testament to their vision. Sadly, Dexter’s own Second Empire creation succumbed to flames in 1939, a lost piece of Avon Hill’s early history. By 1890, Avon Hill had blossomed. Distinguished homes, each with its own unique character, dotted the landscape. These weren’t just houses; they were statements, built for the prominent business owners of the era. The renowned firm of Hartwell & Richardson left their mark on four of these residences, their architectural prowess evident in every detail. Other local architects contributed their talents, creating a tapestry of styles that define Avon Hill to this day. Interestingly, only two houses in the district were built after 1900, freezing Avon Hill in a time capsule of late 19th and early 20th-century architecture. The district encompasses a rich variety of architectural marvels, predominantly large, 2+1⁄2-story wood-frame structures. A lone brick building and another combining brick and wood add to the eclectic mix. While originally designed as single-family homes, some have been adapted to accommodate multiple living units, a gentle nod to the changing times. Today, as you stroll along Washington Street, between Upland and Lancaster, or wander down Lancaster towards Massachusetts Avenue, you’re walking through a living museum. Walnut Street, Arlington Street, Agassiz, Humboldt, and Hillside Avenue, all contribute to this historic tapestry. Forty-four properties in all, each with a story to tell. Avon Hill isn’t just a neighborhood; it’s a testament to a bygone era.