Hempsted Houses

Hempsted Houses are a collection of historic domestic structures located in New London, Connecticut, representing a remarkable continuum of American architectural and social history from the early colonial period through the 19th century. The site is anchored by the 1678 Joshua Hempsted House, a rare surviving example of First Period New England construction, and includes the adjacent 1759 Nathaniel Hempsted House, which showcases evolving Georgian and later stylistic influences. Managed in part by the New London County Historical Society, the houses offer a tangible connection to the region's maritime economy, family dynasties, and the complex social fabric of early America, including narratives of both free and enslaved inhabitants.

History

The history of the Hempsted Houses is deeply intertwined with the settlement and development of New London, Connecticut, founded by John Winthrop the Younger. The original house was constructed in 1678 for Joshua Hempsted, a descendant of one of the town's early settlers, and remained in the continuous ownership of the Hempsted family for nearly three centuries. The family's fortunes were closely linked to the Atlantic trade, with members engaged in shipbuilding, farming, and legal professions, as documented in the extensive diary kept by Joshua Hempsted. The 1759 addition, built by his grandson Nathaniel Hempsted, reflects the family's continued prosperity during the period of the American Revolution and the subsequent growth of the United States. The property witnessed key historical currents, including the economic shifts of the Federalist Era and the domestic impacts of the War of 1812.

Architecture and construction

Architecturally, the Hempsted Houses present a living textbook of evolving American building techniques and styles. The 1678 Joshua Hempsted House is a quintessential New England saltbox structure, built with a massive timber frame, wattle and daub infill, and a distinctive steeply pitched roof, exemplifying medieval building traditions transported from England. The 1759 Nathaniel Hempsted House, connected by a later hyphen, illustrates the transition to more formal, symmetrical Georgian architecture, with classical proportions and refined interior finishes. Later modifications in the 19th century introduced elements of the Federal and Greek Revival styles, evident in fireplace mantels, door surrounds, and window details, showcasing the adaptation of the homes to contemporary tastes over generations.

Significance and preservation

The significance of the Hempsted Houses lies in their exceptional integrity and layered historical narrative, leading to their designation as a National Historic Landmark in 1970. They are recognized as one of the oldest surviving stone houses in New England and provide critical evidence of early colonial life, construction, and material culture. The site's importance is further amplified by the detailed diary of Joshua Hempsted, which provides an unparalleled account of daily life, labor, and social relations, including his ownership of an enslaved man named Adam Jackson. Preservation efforts have been led by the New London County Historical Society, which acquired the property in the 1930s, and subsequent restoration projects have been supported by organizations like the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation and grants from the National Park Service.

Notable residents and events

The most notable resident was the diarist Joshua Hempsted, whose meticulous journal provides a vital primary source for historians of colonial America. His son, Stephen Hempsted, was a noted shipbuilder whose vessels contributed to the commerce of the Thirteen Colonies. The houses also sheltered multiple generations of the family through pivotal events, including the Great Awakening, which stirred religious fervor in the region, and the American Revolutionary War, during which New London was attacked by forces under Benedict Arnold. The long-term presence of the enslaved Adam Jackson, who lived and worked on the property for decades, adds a crucial dimension to the site's social history, representing the often-overlooked experiences of enslaved people in Northern colonial communities.

Location and access

The Hempsted Houses are situated at 11 Hempstead Street in the city of New London, Connecticut, within the coastal region of New London County. The property is located near other historic sites such as the Shaw Mansion and the Custom House Maritime Museum, contributing to a district rich in historical heritage. The site is accessible from major roadways including Interstate 95 and is a short distance from the Cross Sound Ferry terminal. While primarily operated as a museum, access is seasonal and by appointment, with educational programs facilitated by the New London County Historical Society. The houses are also included in thematic tours highlighting the architecture and history of the Connecticut shoreline.

Category:Houses in New London, Connecticut Category:National Historic Landmarks in Connecticut Category:Museums in New London County, Connecticut Category:Houses on the National Register of Historic Places in Connecticut