Edward Augustus Russell House facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
|
|
Edward Augustus Russell House
|
|
Photographed in 2012
|
|
 Location in Connecticut
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | Middletown, Connecticut |
|---|---|
| Built | 1842 |
| Architect | I. Towns or A.J. Davis |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival, Italianate |
| NRHP reference No. | 82004336 |
| Added to NRHP | April 29, 1982 |
The Edward Augustus Russell House is a historic building located on the Wesleyan University campus in Middletown, Connecticut. It's a great example of Greek Revival architecture. This style was popular in the 1800s and looks a bit like ancient Greek temples. The house is at 318 High Street, a very fancy area in Middletown back in the 1800s. It was once home to a university fraternity. The house is built with strong brick walls and a brownstone foundation.
Contents
Why This House Is Special
This house was built between 1841 and 1842 for a man named Edward A. Russell. He was born in 1797 and passed away in 1874. The house was part of his family's large property.
Edward Russell's Life
Edward Russell used to work in international trade. He traveled a lot for business. In 1838, he came back to Middletown. After returning, he became an important person in the community. He served as the mayor of Middletown. He was also a state representative, meaning he helped make laws for Connecticut. Plus, he was a delegate at national meetings.
Architectural Style and Design
Edward Russell knew the famous architecture firm of Town and Davis. This firm had designed a well-known Greek Revival house for his younger brother, Samuel W. Russell. Because of this connection, it's possible that Town and Davis also designed Edward's house.
Early photos of the house show its original look. It was a very fancy and stylish example of Greek Revival architecture. Its design was similar to other important buildings by Town and Davis. These include the DeRham Brevoort House in New York City and "Highwood" in New Haven, Connecticut.
Changes Over Time
Edward Russell's grand-nephew, Richard L. deZeng, lived in the house until 1932. Then, Wesleyan University bought the property. In 1934, the university sold it to a fraternity group.
When it became a fraternity house, some changes were made.
- The heavy decorative trim at the top of the building was moved lower.
- New windows were added on the third floor.
- Some window decorations were removed.
- New window openings were cut on the south side of the house.
The second and third floors were divided into smaller rooms for students. However, the first floor mostly stayed the same. This house was the last Greek Revival style building built on the famous High Street.
What It's Used For Today
Today, the Edward Augustus Russell House is still in good shape. It is used for many different events at Wesleyan University. People can attend lectures, concerts, and other special gatherings there.
