Glidden-Austin Block facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Glidden-Austin Block
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1960 HABS photo, rear/side view
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 Location in Maine
Location in the United States
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| Location | 52 Main St., Newcastle, Maine |
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| Area | 1 acre (0.40 ha) |
| Built | 1845 |
| NRHP reference No. | 75000102 |
| Added to NRHP | April 28, 1975 |
The Glidden-Austin Block is a very old and important building in Newcastle, Maine. It was built way back in 1845. This building is a great example of how shops and businesses looked in the mid-1800s. You can find it right in the middle of downtown Newcastle. Because it's so special, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places on April 28, 1975.
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What is the Glidden-Austin Block?
The Glidden-Austin Block stands in a key spot in Newcastle. It is where Academy Hill Street meets Main Street (which is also Business United States Route 1). This building is made of brick and has three and a half stories. It has a pointed roof and a strong foundation made of granite.
How Does the Building Look?
The first floor has seven sections. There are two large storefronts, each with three parts. These shops are on either side of the main entrance to the building. Each storefront has big display windows. These windows are separated by strong granite posts and topped with granite beams.
The second and third floors each have five windows. All these windows have granite sills (bottom parts) and lintels (top parts). Three small windows stick out from the roof. These are called gabled dormers. Chimneys also rise from the sides of the building.
Who Built the Glidden-Austin Block?
This building was constructed in 1845 by a man named William Taylor Glidden. He was a well-known ship captain and merchant in the area. Not long after building it, Glidden teamed up with Algernon S. Austin. Austin was a blacksmith who worked in the local shipbuilding business.
What Was the Building Used For?
The Glidden-Austin Block likely started as a chandler's shop on the ground floor. A chandler's shop sold supplies for ships. The floors above probably had homes. Over the years, the building has been used for many different things. It was once a clothing factory. It also served as an undertaker's shop and a place where many families lived. Today, it is home to the Newcastle Publick House, which is a restaurant and bar.
