Arthur A. Hart- Artist and Teacher

Deepwood Hall
artwork by Arthur A. Hart
1961 Longmeadow, MA Annual Town Report 

 

For eight years beginning in 1961 a copy of original artwork by the artist Arthur A. Hart was showcased on the cover of the Longmeadow, MA Annual Town Reports.  Prof. Hart was a talented artist and he also was the Chairman of the Art Dept. at Bay Path Junior College in Longmeadow.   During that eight year period town residents could view a well recognized scene in Longmeadow on the cover of the Annual Town Report that is published every year. Most of the covers were his depictions of historical houses in town with a description, so everyone could also learn some Longmeadow history.

Prof. Arthur A. Hart
The Portico- 1968 Yearbook
Bay Path Junior College
Longmeadow, MA

Prof. Hart, his wife Novella and four daughters Susanna, Robin, Catherine and Allison moved to Longmeadow in 1955. It was at that time that Prof. Hart became a member of the faculty at Bay Path Junior College. The family lived at 39 Edgewood Avenue. In addition to teaching at Bay Path, this artist was interested in nature. Many people enjoyed his nature walks at Fannie Stebbins Memorial Wildlife Refuge in Longmeadow. Also being interested in conservation in Longmeadow Prof. Hart served as chairman of the Conservation Commission. In addition to his responsibilities at Bay Path Junior College he and other water color colleagues formed the Valley Watercolor Society and he served as its president. This gentleman was also very interested in history and gave lectures in our area.

The Springfield Union
 Oct. 19, 1960

In 1969 Prof. Arthur A. Hart was offered a position as Director of the Idaho State Historical Museum in Boise, Idaho. This new role also included serving as Director of Education for the Idaho State Historical Society. He and his family had lived in Idaho before coming to New England. 

Arthur A. Hart lived in Boise, Idaho the remainder of his life. In 2020 this talented gentleman passed away at the age of 99 years. So many years ago he and his family left Longmeadow, MA. However, there are current town residents and also former residents who remember this gentleman and his family. We can continue to admire his works of art that he created for the covers of our Longmeadow Annual Town Reports.

Copies of the other 7 Longmeadow Annual Town Report covers with the artwork of Arthur A. Hart are below:   

1963 Annual Town Report Cover Photo

THE COVER PICTURE on this year's town report is of one of the most elegant of  the Georgian architecture  practiced in America in the early homes in the Connecticut Valley, built by Alexander Field  in  1794.  It is a variation late 18th and early 19th centuries.  The measurements of its beautiful proportions are on file in the Library of Congress and it has long been the subject of attention by students of American architecture.   The present owners are Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Richmond, who have done much to restore this exceptional house to its original style and beauty.  The painting is by Arthur A. Hart, Chairman of the Art Department at Bay Path Junior College.

1964 Annual Town Report Cover Photo

1965 Annual Town Report Cover Photo

This year's Town Report cover features the historic red brick Georgian house at 674 Longmeadow Street, traditionally known as the "Dauphin House". It takes its name from its most famous occupant, Eleazur Williams, who claimed to be the lost dauphin of France, son of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette who died on the guillotine in 1793. Old accounts refer to the house as the finest between Springfield and Hartford on the old coach road. It has been well maintained by numerous owners through the years and is presently the property of Russell D. Chase. The Selectmen take this opportunity to thank Mr. Arthur Hart for the painting of the house for this year's cover and for the use of the painting to enhance the report.

1966 Annual Town Report Cover Photo

 

 A tavern, a hat factory and a house, whose present occupant has resided there for 71 years, are featured on this year's cover painting by Arthur A. Hart.

This familiar trio of Longmeadow Street houses on the East side of the Green, on its Northern end, have not always been neighbors.  #655, on the left in the picture, was built before 1758 on the opposite side of the street by Thomas Bliss.  It served for many years as a tavern, run by Nathaniel Ely, and was moved to its present location in 1855. The present owner is Dr. Stanley Teale.

Also moved to its present location, after an interesting early history elsewhere is #663, now owned by L. Curtiss Guild.  It was for many years a hat factory and was located on the Green Proper until 1831, when moved by Israel Gates.

#679 was built shortly after the Civil War on the site of Dr. Lawton's boys' school, which burned in 1859.  Mr.s William Goodman has lived in the house since November 1895, which is possibly the current record for Town residents.

1967 Annual Town Report Cover Photo

1968 Annual Town Report Cover Photo

For this year's cover Arthur A. Hart has chosen "The Old Red House", at 787 Longmeadow Street, which was built in 1735 by Simon Colton. Simon was the last child horn in the Longmeddowe, by the river. He was a grandson of the renowned Quartermaster George Colton and a son of John Colton, Simon's mother was a sister of Connecticut's first Governor Wolcott, The oldest complete house now in Longmeadow, it has a 14-foot square central chimney with a 50-inch deep beehive oven and five fireplaces. The front rooms have gunstock corner posts and center beams. There are indications of an original overhang, on the outside, in the fashion of 17th century England. Major Luther Colton, Simon's son, added a small room on the south side at the time of his marriage to Mehittabel (Boardman) Deming, widow of a member of General Washington's staff. Except for a brief period, Colton descendants have lived here. In 1935"The Old Red House" was conveyed to The Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities as a memorial to Quartermaster George Colton.

Additional Sources: Springfield Daily News- Oct. 17, 1955 and Dec. 12, 1968; The Springfield Union- May 12, 1969. 

**With appreciation to LongmeadowMA.org for sharing their collection of many of the Longmeadow Annual Town Report covers that former local Longmeadow, MA artists created. Click here to view the complete collection.

Written by Judy Moran        

A Longmeadow Story Long Forgotten

Tannery + home of Edmund Evarts located on Wheelmeadow Brook
(image based upon For Sale ad shown below)

Edmund Evarts was a Tanner in Longmeadow, MA in the early 1800’s. His tannery was strategically situated along the Wheelmeadow Brook near the street now named Longmeadow Street. See the 1831 map below. Mr. Evarts’ house was located next to the Tannery.  

1831 Map Section of Longmeadow

He was a native of Guilford, Connecticut. After marrying Annis Booth in 1796 they settled in Longmeadow, MA. Annis was the daughter of Capt. Joseph and Mary Hale Booth of Enfield, CT. Her brother David Booth had married Margaret Colton- the daughter of “Marchant” Samuel Colton of Longmeadow. Together, Edmund and Annis raised a family of two daughters Mary and Nancy and a son Joseph. Joseph joined his father in the tannery business. His house was located north of his father’s house. (See map above.)

This tannery played a significant role in the local economy, because leather was the product of tanneries and leather was a very useful product. It was commonly used for clothing, footwear, horse saddles and other horse equipment including bridles, reins and harnesses. Some other uses of leather included military equipment, furniture upholstery and bookbinding. The durability and flexibility of leather made it indispensable in daily life.

At the Tannery animal hides were transformed into leather through a multi-step process. The Tannery itself would be a sturdy structure including housing vats for soaking hides, equipment for tanning, and tools for workers. The animal hides were first cleaned and de-haired before being tanned using substances like tree bark extracts or salts. The tanned leather was cured, typically by drying it in sheds or on frames. Finishing touches, such as shaving imperfections, dyeing, and treating with oils were then applied. Tanning was a smelly process.

Note: Longmeadow residents Edmund Evarts and Gaius Bliss were both tanners in Longmeadow in 1820.

Hampden Patriot
Date: June 14, 1820

Joseph Evarts joined his father in the tanning business.  In 1845 the Hampden Co. Agricultural Society listed their members and their specialities.  Joseph Evarts of Longmeadow was included.

Date: Sept. 18, 1845

In April of 1849 Edmund Evarts passed away at the age of 77 years. Before he died the Tannery was for sale. His son Joseph had placed an ad in the local newspaper selling the Tannery, the “dwelling house”, the barn and the property including 12 acres of land. In addition to advertising selling this property another property was for sale. It was another “dwelling house” and 11 acres of land- Joseph Evarts property.

"The Daily Republican"
Date: May 18, 1845

These sales marked the end of an era for the Evarts family’s tanning business in Longmeadow, MA.

Joseph Evarts, his wife Clarinda Cooley Evarts, daughter Sarah and two sons John Cooley and Edmund traveled to New York and then relocated to Michigan. Joseph’s unmarried sister Mary Evarts went with them. His two sons died fighting for the Union during the Civil War. Sgt. Edmund Evarts is buried in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA. The other members of the Evarts family who had lived in Longmeadow, MA are buried in the Longmeadow Cemetery in Longmeadow.

As time moved on this location had other uses. While the date is estimated we understand that there was a fire at this location.

Date: Nov. 2, 1915
Springfield Republican

Then, another house was located next to Wheelmeadow Brook.  In 1915 the house was commonly known as Dr. Lester Noble's house. He had been a well known dentist. There was an article printed in the local newspaper describing this property. 

Springfield Republican
Date: Nov. 2, 1915

The Tannery that had been located on the Wheelmeadow Brook so long ago was one of the many important industries located in Longmeadow, MA.  This Tannery is now a memory.  

Additional Sources: Longmeadow Historian's Evarts, Bliss, Booth and Colton Family Trees.

~Written by Judy Moran

The "Washington Elm"

In the recorded history of some towns and cities in Massachusetts a "Washington Elm" tree is mentioned.  That particular tree is also mentioned in Longmeadow, MA.  Longmeadow's 1901 Annual Town Report cover has a sketch of this tree. The large tree in front of this house on the Town Report cover is an Elm tree.

1901 Longmeadow Annual Town Report Cover

 

Inside this Town Report information is given regarding this photo engraving by architect and Longmeadow, MA resident L.C. Fay.     

Many of you will recognize this house that is located at 787 Longmeadow Street.  It is known as the "Old Red House"- the Captain Simon Colton House that was built in 1734. After Simon Colton died, his son Major Luther Colton and his family lived here. 

Proceedings at the Centennial Celebration
of the Incorporation of the Town of Longmeadow (1884)

The Old Red House and the very large Elm tree were so interesting to so many residents over the years.  Longmeadow resident Paesiello Emerson also took photos of them.  

Red House and Elm
Date:  Sept. 21, 1918
Emerson Photo/ Longmeadow Historical society

There is information regarding this tree included in the 1938 Longmeadow Annual Town Report.  The 1938 hurricane that uprooted so many well established trees in New England was not kind to the large Elm that stood in front of the house at 787 Longmeadow Street. The name given to this tree was the "Washington Elm" and it was located in front of the Old Red Colton House.

1938 Longmeadow Annual Town Report
(click to enlarge)

In the Old Red Colton House Capt. Simon Colton had a tavern and many travelers stopped here on their way to other destinations. It was not uncommon to believe that some travelers would sit in the shade of this tree and enjoy their beverages that had been purchased in the tavern. 

Massachusetts Historical Commission Surveys
(click to enlarge)

While there's no evidence that it did occur it was possible that Gen. George Washington could have stopped at this tavern at the Old Red House. He could have enjoyed a beverage in the shade of this glorious long standing Elm tree. This tree was known as the "Washington Elm".  It no longer provides shade to residents and visitors alike, but we have a wonderful memory, sketches and photos of this grand tree.         

Other Sources:  1900 U.S. Federal Census and 1901 Longmeadow Directory

Written by Judy Moran

The 1919 Myth: Reconstructing Longmeadow's Architectural History

In Longmeadow, Massachusetts, a historical anomaly has come to light, challenging the perceived origins of many local homes. A surprising discovery within Longmeadow’s Vision Appraisal Database has revealed that numerous houses, previously believed by homeowners to have been built in 1919, actually predate this year.

The issue centers around the database's use of "1919" as a default construction year for houses whose true build dates were unknown. This practice has led to a significant discrepancy in the town's historical records, affecting approximately 7% of the approximate 5,600 houses in Longmeadow. It is believed that around 400 houses were assigned the 1919 build date due to lack of precise information.  According to sources, there was no fire in which records were destroyed, it was simply a matter of a lack of information.  A former Longmeadow Town Assessor suggested that the 1919 build date was acceptable since the assessed value of the property would not change if the actual build date was determined to be earlier than 1919.

However, a multi-year investigation by the Longmeadow Historian and other local researchers has started to uncover the true build date for some of these homes. Utilizing a wide array of historical resources, including detailed local maps, census records, archival newspaper articles, and local street directories, some of these inaccuracies have been identified.  This effort has been partly motivated by the discovery that, contrary to the assumption that 400 houses were built in 1919, local newspaper accounts indicate that only 26 houses were actually constructed that year (see above newspaper article). 

Here is the story of one prominent house in the north end of Longmeadow Street (#43) for which the correct build date has not as yet been identified.  Using some of the above listed historical resources,  the build date of this house was determined to be pre-1905 rather than the Vision Appraisal database listing of 1919.  It is not currently listed on the Longmeadow Structures Built Prior to 1901.

43 Longmeadow Street
[click image to enlarge]

 

 

The Longmeadow Historian has played a pivotal role in this process, identifying a number of houses previously listed as built in 1919 but found to have been erected in earlier years. This correction not only enriches the architectural narrative of Longmeadow but also has practical implications for the town's Demolition Delay Bylaw. Accurately dating these homes is important for determining which buildings fall under the bylaw's protection, aimed at preserving structures of historical significance.  It is possible that Longmeadow’s Demolition Delay Bylaw may be expanded for years later than 1901 so research may be needed to identify which houses will be included under a revised bylaw.  

One fascinating aspect complicating the task of accurately dating these homes is the early 20th-century practice of "moving houses" to new locations within the town. This practice has obscured the history of some properties, making it challenging to trace their origins and accurately determine their construction dates.

Unraveling the true history of these homes highlights a broader commitment to preserving Longmeadow's architectural legacy. It reflects a deep-seated value placed on historical accuracy and the stories embedded within the town's structures. 

This work not only seeks to amend the historical record but also to reconnect residents with their homes' true pasts. It's a journey that goes beyond mere dates, touching the very essence of heritage and belonging. As more houses are correctly dated, Longmeadow's residents are not just discovering the age of their homes; they're reconnecting with a piece of the town's shared history, ensuring that the legacy of these structures is honored and preserved.

Written by Jim Moran/ Guest Historian

A Changing Landscape- Longmeadow Town Green

734/ 720/ 702 Longmeadow Street (1883)
[click images to enlarge]

The west side of Longmeadow Street at the north end of the Town Green has changed greatly over the past 140 years.  The above photo (date ~ 1883) found in the Proceedings at the Centennial Celebration of the Incorporation of the Town of Longmeadow shows a different view from today's scene.  Two of these homes have disappeared and been replaced as shown in the current 2024 photo below:

734/ 720/ 702 Longmeadow Street (2024)

 

 

 Most people will recognize the Brewer-Young Mansion at 734 Longmeadow Street built in 1884-85 which has recently undergone a major renovation converting a large abandoned residential property into a small business entrepreneurial center.  The renovation retained a large portion of the architectural identity.

Below are some recent article describing the background of these landscape changes.

by Jim Moran- Guest Historian

"The Great Altantic Coast Blizzard"- February 1899

"The Great Atlantic Coast Blizzard"
February 11- 14, 1899
Courtesy of National Weather Service
Click image to enlarge.

Before Valentine's Day in 1899 snow began falling in Western Massachusetts.  That included the Springfield, MA area.  This snowstorm affected Southern New England.  We now know this storm as "The Great Atlantic Coast Blizzard".  Many residents could easily recall a blizzard that they witnessed 11 years earlier.  That was the March Blizzard of 1888.  

On February 13, 1899 snow began falling in the Springfield area at 3 o'clock in the morning.  The snowfall continued all day and it was still snowing at midnight.  Not only were the snowflakes coming down to hinder everyday lives, but the thermometer readings were in the single digits that day, too.  Trolley travel was hindered and business was not as usual anywhere in the area.

Springfield Republican
Feb. 14, 1899

The hotels in Springfield were filled with travelers who could not continue on to their destinations, because some of the trains could not leave Union Station and some others could not arrive at Union Station to take on travelers. There were also people who could not get home from Springfield, because the trolleys had a difficult time with the weather conditions.  The Longmeadow trolley line was hampered by the snow.  Two trolley cars that started their route from the MA/ CT state line traveled on and then became stuck at Pecousic (near the Barney Mansion).  Much later in the evening a snow plow came to the rescue.  Certainly the freezing temperatures did not make for a pleasant evening.
 

Springfield Republican
Feb. 14, 1899

The wind blew and the snow drifted.  In Springfield, MA over 20" of snow fell.

Springfield Republican
Feb. 15, 1899
Click image to enlarge.

"The Great Atlantic Coast Blizzard" was one that required the patience of people to "weather the storm" and the hard work of others to come to their aide.

Written by Judy Moran          

The Lost Legacy of Pecousic Villa: The Barney Mansion and the Making of Forest Park

Pecousic Villa- Home of Everett Hosmer Barney

Map of Forest Park- 1898
[click map to enlarge]

The above 1898 map of Forest Park shows the location of Pecousic Brook and the other structures including the Pecousic Villa. This map was drawn after the change in the Springfield/ Longmeadow boundary in 1890 giving the historic King Philip Stockade to Springfield.

 

 

Pecousic Villa (left)/ Carriage House
[click image to enlarge]

In the heart of Springfield, Massachusetts lies Forest Park, a sprawling 735-acre urban oasis offering residents and visitors alike a retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. While today it stands as one of the largest city parks in New England, its creation and expansion came at a significant cost, most notably the disappearance of a historic gem, the Pecousic Villa, also known as the Barney Mansion. This blog post delves into the history of the villa, its integral role in the creation of Forest Park, and the series of events leading to its unfortunate demolition.

The Birth of Pecousic Villa
Pecousic Villa was the elegant home of Everett Hosmer Barney, a prominent industrialist known for his invention and manufacture of the clamp-on ice skate. Constructed in the late 19th century, this grand mansion was nestled on the bluffs overlooking the Connecticut River in Springfield. The villa not only served as Barney's residence but also as a symbol of his success and contributions to the city's industrial growth.

Everett Hosmer Barney 1835 - 1916

The Creation of Forest Park
The story of Forest Park begins with Everett Hosmer Barney's visionary act in 1884. Recognizing the need for public green space in Springfield, Barney generously donated approximately 178 acres of his land, including the grounds surrounding Pecousic Villa, to the city. This donation laid the foundation for what would become Forest Park. Over the years, the park expanded through additional land acquisitions, growing to its current size and offering an array of recreational and cultural amenities, from hiking trails and sports facilities to the Forest Park Zoo.

Barney Hill Overlooking Connecticut River
[click image to enlarge]

Redrawing Boundaries for Progress
The expansion of Forest Park necessitated the redrawing of boundaries between Springfield and its neighboring town of Longmeadow. This change that took place in June 1890, primarily for additional acreage for the park, underscored the city's commitment to creating a substantial public green space. The adjustment of boundaries was a significant administrative move, reflecting the lengths to which the city was willing to go to ensure the park's growth and accessibility to the community. This was the first time that the Springfield/ Longmeadow boundary was changed followed by another change in June 1914.

Longmeadow/ Springfield Boundary Changes

The Impact of Interstate 91
The construction of Interstate 91 in the 1960s marked a pivotal moment for Springfield and, tragically, for Pecousic Villa itself. The new highway was part of a broader trend of urban development during the era, which often prioritized transportation infrastructure over historical preservation. Its construction led to the demolition of the Barney Mansion in 1959, erasing a piece of Springfield's history to make way for progress and connectivity. The loss of Pecousic Villa to the interstate project is a stark reminder of the costs associated with urban development, especially when it comes at the expense of preserving historical landmarks.

Pecousic Villa being demolished
Photo courtesy of Paul Meagher/ Robert Goff/ Rob Brogle

Approximate Location of Pecousic Villa
[click image to enlarge]

Reflections on the Legacy of Pecousic Villa
The disappearance of Pecousic Villa is a poignant chapter in Springfield's history, embodying the complex interplay between progress and preservation. While Forest Park remains a cherished green space, serving as a testament to Barney's legacy and philanthropy, the absence of the Barney Mansion leaves a void in the historical tapestry of the city. It serves as a reminder of what is lost when the wheels of progress roll forward without due consideration for the past.

As Springfield continues to evolve, the story of Pecousic Villa and the creation of Forest Park offers valuable lessons on the importance of balancing development with historical preservation. It challenges future generations to remember and honor the past, even as they forge ahead to build new legacies. The story of Everett Hosmer Barney, his mansion, and the park that grew from his generosity continues to inspire a vision of community, green space, and the delicate balance between preserving history and making way for the future.

________________________________

 Written by Jim Moran/ Guest Historian

A special thank you to Paul Meagher- Springfield Ma- Historic Crossroad of New England for some of the photos used in this article.