Historic Structures Report: Part II (Portion), Architectural Data Section on Adams Mansion - Kitchen Wing, Adams National Historic Site

Wrenn GL. 1966. Historic Structures Report: Part II (Portion), Architectural Data Section on Adams Mansion - Kitchen Wing, Adams National Historic Site. Historic Structure Report. U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service

This report on the Kitchen Wing of the Adams Mansion accompanies Part II reports previously prepared for the East Wing and the 1869 Addition. The Kitchen Wing has a complex structural history because it is composed of two sections that were constructed at different times, and it has been subjected to remodeling since its construction. It is not known when the additions were built, but it seems likely that both were added by the Vassall-Borland family between 1731 and 1765. The report covers the structural rehabilitation as well as the work needed to maintain and preserve the exterior and interior surface fabric of the house and utilities. It notes the care that went into planning the approach to rehabilitation due to the historical and architectural interest of the house. There was effort to respond to the need for structural rehabilitation while preserving the historic exterior and interior fabric that the Adamses knew. It also acknowledges the need to reinforce the structure to accommodate visitor use. The author notes a lack of documentary evidence on its construction, apparent complexity of its structural history, and the fact that this was the first thorough investigation conducted of the wing.

Type
Published Report
Authors
Wrenn, George
Date of Issue
1966-02
Publisher
U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Units
ADAM , NER
Keywords
Abigail Adams, addition, fireplace, John Adams, John Borland, Kitchen, Leonard Vassall, out-kitchen, president, rehabilitation, reinforcement, structural framework
Subjects
CRIS-HS: 000007: Adams Estate - 'The Old House'

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