Just like language, historic architecture has its own vernacular and idiosyncrasies. Distinct to region, era, and community, these specific dialects sit atop roofs, adorn entryways, and determine the spiral of pillars positioned in front of a home. Crafted decades, sometimes centuries ago, this vernacular should be protected and preserved, according to Wendy Wright Marrinan and Philip Neuber of the Woodstock Village Historic Preservation Commission.
In light of recent community discussion about historic home demolition, Preservation Commission secretary Marrinan and chair Neuber sat down with the Standard to explain what it means to live in a historic village, and why our community should work together to preserve the architecture and infrastructure of this town.
Neuber, a licensed architect and trained architectural historian, told the Standard, “The National Register for Historic Preservation details that a historic town is one where its architectural and historical contributions offer significance to the region, state, or country. These requirements, spelled out in the 1966 National Historic Preservation Act, prompted all states to survey existing properties that were at least 50 years old. Through this process, Woodstock was named one of the earliest historic districts, housing a number of historically significant parcels.”
Neuber went on to explain how there are two kinds of historic properties — contributory and non-contributory. A contributory property is a building, site, or structure located within a designated historic district that adds to the district’s historic associations, architectural qualities, or archaeological values. “In essence, it helps make a historic district historic,” Neuber said. The Town Hall, Windsor Court House, and properties along The Green are examples of contributory buildings.
He continued, “It so happens that the two homes the [Woodstock] Inn is [planning] to demolish are two contributing properties as well. Woodstock is known for its high-style federal architectural design, which these homes have. The 16 South Street home is particularly significant because it is an antebellum home, with architectural design dating back to the 1840s. The 14 South Street home, as well as others within that section of town, are wonderful examples of New England vernacular architecture on display.”
For our full story on this, please see our November 13 edition of the Vermont Standard.
