Picture five houses nestled together. This is the Hyde Avenue Historic District in Newton Massachusetts. They aren’t just houses. They tell a story of a bygone era. They whisper tales of George Hyde a city assessor selectman and bank director. His 43-acre farm once stood here. He subdivided it selling off parcels of land to create this charming residential street.
The Hyde Avenue Historic District is more than a pretty picture. It’s a snapshot of architectural styles popular in the 1880s. Queen Anne Colonial Revival and Shingle style homes stand side-by-side. Each home has its own unique character. Each boasts a distinct architectural style.
Number 36 Hyde Avenue is a Queen Anne style home. It’s boxy perhaps but full of character. Notice the asymmetric entry. See the decorative wood shingling? The spindled friezes on its porch add to its charm. Across the way number 52 Hyde Avenue is another Queen Anne gem built around 1893. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of this popular style.
Number 42 Hyde Avenue stands out. It’s a Shingle Style home. Built in 1885 it’s the only one of its kind in this collection. Look closely at its arcaded wraparound porch. Those conical dormers are a hallmark of its unique style.
Numbers 59 and 62 Hyde Avenue represent the Colonial Revival style. They were built around 1885 and 1897 respectively. The house at 62 Hyde boasts clustered columns on its porch entry. A fine example of graceful elegance.
These five houses form the Hyde Avenue Historic District. They showcase the architectural diversity of Newton in the late 19th century. They represent the vision of George Hyde. They were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. They continue to stand proudly. They are a testament to a time gone by. They invite us to imagine life in Newton a century ago. A true treasure. They remain symbols of a rich architectural heritage. This is the Hyde Avenue Historic District a place of history and beauty.