Could a house speak? If the Boardman House could, it would whisper tales of centuries past. Here we stand before the Boardman House, a tangible link to 17th-century Saugus. Built in 1692 for William Boardman, a skilled joiner, this house has witnessed the passage of time. It stands as a National Historic Landmark.
The Boardman House isn’t just a house. It’s a time capsule. It showcases remarkably preserved 17th and 18th-century construction. William Sumner Appleton, the founder of Historic New England, recognized its value. He purchased the Boardman House in 1914. He was captivated by the surviving original elements. These include the oak clapboards, roof boards, and skirt boards. The massive timber framing boasts decorative chamfers. The shadow-molded sheathing and wooden ceilings add to the charm.
The house evolved with the Boardman family. By 1696, a rear lean-to appeared. This addition separated workspaces from social spaces. This marked a significant cultural shift in domestic architecture. The “hall” transitioned from a multipurpose area to a formal “best room.” This complemented the existing parlor. The lean-to housed a new kitchen, a milk room, and a kitchen chamber. Dendrochronology research reveals the lean-to underwent reconstruction in 1731. Interestingly, some timbers from the original 1693-94 lean-to were reused.
The Boardman House remained in the Boardman family until 1911. Imagine the generations that lived within these walls. They witnessed history unfold. They experienced life’s joys and sorrows. The house whispers their stories to us. The house has undergone some changes over time. The original leaded-glass windows were replaced with sash windows. Two front gables were removed. Around 1725, a new interior staircase was installed. Despite these modifications, the Boardman House retains its original character. It offers a glimpse into the past. It’s a testament to the craftsmanship of William Boardman.
The Boardman House stands as a reminder of our connection to the past. It whispers stories of family, change, and the enduring power of history. As you leave the Boardman House, carry these whispers with you. Remember the Boardman family. Appreciate the dedication to preservation that has allowed this remarkable house to survive.