“Building Hudson’s Homes: The Creation of Our Stunning Streetscape” with Gwendolyn Mayer

The hundreds of historic structures that make up Hudson’s stunning streetscape didn’t just happen. They were masterfully planned and constructed by a group of dedicated and talented builders using the materials, tool and techniques of their day.

For its November meeting, Hudson Heritage Association is pleased to welcome Hudson Library and Historical Society archivist Gwendolyn Mayer, who will present “Building Hudson’s Homes: The Creation of Our Stunning Streetscape.”

Mayer will trace the evolution of home-building in Hudson throughout the 19th century and how the town’s majestic homes were constructed.

“During the 1800s, Hudson mirrored the terrific growth of our nation itself,” Mayer said. “As America grew from its infancy into a world power, Hudson and its homes transformed as well. As the century progressed, joiners, carpenters, brick and stone masons used their talents to take advantage of such advancements as balloon-frame construction, milled lumber, machine-cut nails and eventually indoor plumbing and lighting to masterfully craft the homes of Hudson.”

Built in 1853, this plain New England-style farmhouse was moved to 34 Division Street sometime in the 1880s. It is an excellent example of the craftsmanship, tools, techniques and materials of the day.

Mayer will highlight the lives and structures of some of Hudson’s storied builders, including Frederick Bunnell, Henry Bristol, John and William Humiston, Simeon Porter and Ransom Sanford.

“The stories of these people and their work are crucial to understanding the uniqueness of Hudson,” Mayer said.

Built in the 1840s by Frederick Bunnell, this Italianate villa at 204 College Street, called Cartwright House, now serves as a dormitory and faculty residence at Western Reserve Academy.

“Gwen’s presentations are always fascinating and enlightening. We are fortunate to have her in Hudson,” said HHA President Chris Bach. “This one is going to be special, because we don’t always take the time to learn about and honor the people whose sweat and savvy created the beautiful structures in our town.”

Mayer has been archivist at the Hudson Library and Historical Society for more than 20 years. In that position, she has not only carefully cultivated the library’s massive collections, performed research and assisted scores of authors and historians, she has nurtured a love of Hudson history through walking tours, exhibits, presentations and more.

Hudson Heritiage Association’s November meeting and program featuring Mayer will take place on Thursday, November 14 at 7:30 p.m. at Barlow Community Center, 41 South Oviatt Street, Hudson. The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

What: HHA’s November meeting: “Building Hudson’s Homes: The Creation of Our Stunning Streetscape.”
When: 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 14, 2019
Where: Barlow Community Center, 41 South Oviatt Street, Hudson.
Who: Everyone. This program is free and open to the public.