Busiel, John W., House
a.k.a. St. Joseph Rectory
30 Church St., Laconia, NHThe John W. Busiel House qualifies for the National Register under Criterion C for the period 1865 (date of construction). This French Second Empire residence is the earliest and most representative in Laconia. It exemplifies the use of a mansard roof with dormer windows, molded curbs, and elaborated projecting cornices. Despite the loss of the carriage barn and cupola the building retains the integrity of location, design, workmanship, materials, feeling, and association. Its immediate setting differs somewhat from the 1860s in t buildings have replaced some that existed at the time, and infill construction has taken place in locations that were not then built upon.
In scale and exterior/interior architectural elements, even without the cupola and barn, the John W. Busiel House is the most distinguished one of the French Second Empire style in the city. Of the ten other such residences, only the one at 252 Pleasant Street has most of its original features intact. Interestingly, the building at 52 Church Street is also a part of the St. Joseph parish complex, having been moved from the site now occupied by Holy Trinity School; unfortunately, the structure has been inappropriately sided. The architectural integrity of the others has been impaired for the same reason or by alterations made during their conversions into multiple-family residences.
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1994.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
In the early years, Belknap County was primarily a farming community with settlements spread across the region. The area experienced some level of conflict during the French and Indian War in the mid-18th century, as well as during the American Revolutionary War. However, it remained a relatively remote and undeveloped area until the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century.
The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century transformed Belknap County, opening up new opportunities for trade and commerce. The county saw a significant increase in tourism as people from nearby cities began visiting the lakes and mountains in the region, attracted by its natural beauty. This led to the development of resorts and hotels, further boosting the local economy.
Belknap County continued to grow and evolve into the 20th century. The county became an important center for manufacturing, with industries such as textiles, paper mills, and shoe manufacturing playing a significant role in the local economy. Over time, the county also expanded its educational and cultural institutions, establishing schools, libraries, and museums to serve the growing population.
Today, Belknap County remains a thriving part of New Hampshire, known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and thriving communities. While agriculture and manufacturing have seen decline, the county has diversified its economy to include sectors such as healthcare, tourism, and service industries. Belknap County continues to honor its history while embracing modern development, ensuring a bright future for its residents and visitors.
Belknap County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Belknap County, New Hampshire.
- 1790: Belknap County was established on December 22, 1790.
- 1823: The first county courthouse was built in Meredith.
- 1840: Laconia, the largest city in the county, was incorporated on February 23, 1840.
- 1842: The Belknap County complex, including the current courthouse, was completed in 1842.
- 1855: The railroad arrived in Belknap County, contributing to its economic growth.
- 1868: The Laconia Car Company, a major employer, was founded in Laconia.
- 1973: The Gunstock Mountain Resort opened in Gilford.
- 1995: The Belknap Mill, the oldest unaltered brick textile mill in the United States, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.