Architectural story:
413 Thames Street is a Greek Revival-style, two-story, gable-roof house built ca. 1835. It was purchased by NRF in 1969 and restored in 1973-74.
Greek Revival elements clearly represented by the Burdick House include the end-to-the-street orientation (presenting the temple shape as a first impression) and bold corner trim that seeks to resemble columns, as well as a more shallow angled roof than found in previous styles.
Restoration story:
The restoration process included restoring early architectural elements of the house—including the original doorway.
People story:
The house is named for Clarke Burdick, who appears on the property records relating to several of NRF’s preservation properties on Dennison Street and this neighborhood in the early-19th century. Based on these records, it seems that Burdick was involved in speculative real estate investing.
Archaeological digs conducted in 2008 and 2009 here and at the adjoining property at 415 Thames Street revealed evidence from the 18th century when the properties were both owned by Thomas Richardson, a successful merchant.
In the late-19th and 20th centuries, this house was the home of many Newporters—including masons, laborers, homemakers, a painter, an upholsterer, a machinist, and a mechanic. We are looking forward to uncovering more about the people who lived and worked at this house.
