Church, Benjamin, House
a.k.a. Benjamin Church Home for the Aged.
1014 Hope St., Bristol, RIThe Benjamin Church House was originally erected, from funds left in a trust, as a home for the elderly and was used continuously for this purpose until it was abandoned in 1966; since that time it has been vacant. To the rear of this building are now new housing units for the aged which were financed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. These new elements do not significantly detract from the setting of the house.
This building is important because it forms a neighborhood link. Along Hope Street to the north and south are many fine old Bristol residences, all in good to excellent condition. Examples are the John Reynolds house, a "saltbox" of 1698, presently being, restored; a gambrel-roofed dwelling of 1779 directly across the street from the Benjamin Church house; and the Levi DeWolf farmhouse of 1793, built by one of a famous Bristol family. Should the Church House be removed, an important element in the neighborhood would be lost and a large gap created which would most certainly diminish the visual pleasure now experienced as one travels along Hope Street.
Nearby Dimond and Sunnyside Avenues, running off Hope Street, are short streets with several older houses along them. The ends of these streets overlook Bristol Harbor to the southwest from a point above it. To the northwest of this area is Colt State Park, fronting Narragansett Bay.
The Church house is also architecturally significant being a fine example of the Colonial Revival style of the early part of this century. It is a product of the Providence firm of Howe and Church, who were knowledgeable, tasteful, and skillful exponents of this style-one partner, Wallis Howe, who practiced over an extremely long span of time, being from a distinguished old Bristol family. It is a very pure example of this revival style, exhibits pleasing proportions, and is in basically unaltered condition both externally and internally. Coupled with its siting, its stone foundation, landscaping, and neighborhood, the former Home for the Aged is truly an asset to its environment. It is to be hoped that the Department of Housing and Urban Development will be able to use this structure in conjunction with its new and adjacent housing for the elderly--perhaps as administrative offices or additional residential units.
Local significance of the building:
This building is important because it forms a neighborhood link. Along Hope Street to the north and south are many fine old Bristol residences, all in good to excellent condition. Examples are the John Reynolds house, a "saltbox" of 1698, presently being, restored; a gambrel-roofed dwelling of 1779 directly across the street from the Benjamin Church house; and the Levi DeWolf farmhouse of 1793, built by one of a famous Bristol family. Should the Church House be removed, an important element in the neighborhood would be lost and a large gap created which would most certainly diminish the visual pleasure now experienced as one travels along Hope Street.
Nearby Dimond and Sunnyside Avenues, running off Hope Street, are short streets with several older houses along them. The ends of these streets overlook Bristol Harbor to the southwest from a point above it. To the northwest of this area is Colt State Park, fronting Narragansett Bay.
The Church house is also architecturally significant being a fine example of the Colonial Revival style of the early part of this century. It is a product of the Providence firm of Howe and Church, who were knowledgeable, tasteful, and skillful exponents of this style-one partner, Wallis Howe, who practiced over an extremely long span of time, being from a distinguished old Bristol family. It is a very pure example of this revival style, exhibits pleasing proportions, and is in basically unaltered condition both externally and internally. Coupled with its siting, its stone foundation, landscaping, and neighborhood, the former Home for the Aged is truly an asset to its environment. It is to be hoped that the Department of Housing and Urban Development will be able to use this structure in conjunction with its new and adjacent housing for the elderly--perhaps as administrative offices or additional residential units.
Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1971.
About National Register Listings
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.
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Newport, Rhode Island was once one of the wealthiest cities in America due to its prominence in the shipping and whaling industries in the 18th century.
About Bristol County
Bristol County Timeline
Bristol County, Rhode Island, has a rich history dating back to the early 17th century. Originally inhabited by the Wampanoag people, the area was later settled by English colonists. The town of Bristol was officially established in 1680 and quickly became an important center for maritime trade and fishing due to its prime location on Narragansett Bay.
During the American Revolution, Bristol played a significant role in the fight for independence. The town was heavily involved in privateering, a practice where privately owned ships were authorized by the government to attack and capture enemy vessels. Many Bristol sailors served on these privateers, contributing to the success of the American cause.
In the 19th century, Bristol experienced a period of economic growth and prosperity. Industries such as shipbuilding, textiles, and manufacturing thrived, leading to an increase in population and wealth. The town's maritime heritage continued to play a vital role, with bustling wharves and a busy harbor serving as vital links for trade and commerce.
Today, Bristol County remains an important historic and cultural destination. The town of Bristol is home to numerous historic sites and landmarks, including the Independence Park, which contains the 1783 DeWolf Tavern, a National Historic Landmark. The annual Bristol Fourth of July Parade is also a major attraction, known as the oldest continuous Independence Day celebration in the United States.
Overall, Bristol County, RI, boasts a long and storied history, from its Native American roots to its significant contributions to the American Revolution and its prosperous maritime heritage. The town's historical sites and traditions continue to be cherished by residents and attract visitors from near and far.
During the American Revolution, Bristol played a significant role in the fight for independence. The town was heavily involved in privateering, a practice where privately owned ships were authorized by the government to attack and capture enemy vessels. Many Bristol sailors served on these privateers, contributing to the success of the American cause.
In the 19th century, Bristol experienced a period of economic growth and prosperity. Industries such as shipbuilding, textiles, and manufacturing thrived, leading to an increase in population and wealth. The town's maritime heritage continued to play a vital role, with bustling wharves and a busy harbor serving as vital links for trade and commerce.
Today, Bristol County remains an important historic and cultural destination. The town of Bristol is home to numerous historic sites and landmarks, including the Independence Park, which contains the 1783 DeWolf Tavern, a National Historic Landmark. The annual Bristol Fourth of July Parade is also a major attraction, known as the oldest continuous Independence Day celebration in the United States.
Overall, Bristol County, RI, boasts a long and storied history, from its Native American roots to its significant contributions to the American Revolution and its prosperous maritime heritage. The town's historical sites and traditions continue to be cherished by residents and attract visitors from near and far.
Bristol County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Bristol County, Rhode Island.
- 1680: Bristol County is founded as part of Plymouth Colony.
- 1747: Bristol County becomes part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
- 1747-1774: Bristol experiences economic growth through the Triangular Trade, involving rum, slaves, and molasses.
- 1776: The Revolutionary War begins and Bristol County plays a significant role in supporting the American cause.
- 1777: Rhode Island declares independence from Britain and Bristol County becomes part of the newly formed state.
- 1790s: Bristol County experiences industrial growth with the establishment of mills and factories.
- 1835: The town of Bristol is incorporated.
- 1820s-1840s: Bristol's economy booms with the rise of the maritime industry.
- 1861-1865: Many Bristol residents participate in the American Civil War.
- 1895: The oldest Fourth of July parade in the United States is held in Bristol.
- 20th century: Bristol County sees continued economic growth and becomes a popular tourist destination.
- 2007: Bristol County celebrates its 325th anniversary.