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.
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| 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
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