In preparation for rehabilitation of the circa 1750 Penhallow House, the structure is being investigated from multiple perspectives. Originally located at the corner of Court & Pleasant Streets, it has stood on Washington St. since 1862. Built as a single family home, for a time Penhallow included a store/office before being converted to a multi-family dwelling. In researching its residents, museum staff has focused on the African-American inhabitants of the mid-20th century. The house, which is on the Portsmouth Black Heritage Trail, was the home of Samuel Penhallow, town clerk during the years of the slave trade.

Lawrence Yerdon will present the overall project, placing it in the context of the Heritage House Program, an initiative in which the museum rehabilitates under-utilized space to provide commercial/residential rental opportunities, generating income for the preservation of buildings. Elizabeth Farish will introduce the one-time residents and place the house within the greater Washington St. neighborhood. Alix Martin will review the 2016 field school, display significant artifacts uncovered and present plans for ongoing investigations. John Schnitzler will share his discoveries in the house, pointing out original material and how the structure and construction techniques have changed over time.

5:00 Wine and Cheese, 5:30 Lecture Begins

Tyco Center
Strawbery Banke, Portsmouthy
info@PDASociety.org