Gov. Israel Washburn House facts for kids
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Gov. Israel Washburn House
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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The Gov. Israel Washburn House in June 2017
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 Location in Maine
Location in the United States
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| Location | 120 Main St., Orono, Maine |
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| Area | 0 acres (0 ha) |
| Built | 1840 |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival |
| Part of | Orono Main Street Historic District (ID77000082) |
| NRHP reference No. | 73000144 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | January 12, 1973 |
| Designated CP | December 7, 1977 |
The Gov. Israel Washburn House is a special old house located at 120 Main Street in Orono, Maine. It was built way back in 1840. This house is important because it's a great example of a building style called Greek Revival architecture. It's also famous because it was the home of Israel Washburn, Jr., who became the Governor of Maine. Because of its history and unique style, the house was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.
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About the Washburn House
The Washburn House stands on the east side of Main Street (Route 2) in Orono. This part of the street has many old houses from the 1800s. The house has two and a half stories and is made of wood. It has a pointed roof at the front and sits on a strong granite base.
What the House Looks Like
A two-story section extends from the back of the main house. There's also a building for carriages at the very back. Most of the house is covered with wooden boards called clapboards. However, the front of the house and the front of the back section have smooth, flat boards.
The corners of the building have flat, column-like decorations called pilasters. These support a decorative band that goes around the house. The front of the house has a porch with columns in the Doric order style. Above the porch is a low railing.
The front of the back section has a part that sticks out. It has special windows that go from the floor to the ceiling. This part also has a balcony with a similar railing. The windows on the first floor of the main house are very tall. Other windows are a more normal size. The main door is on the left side of the front. It has narrow windows on either side and flat column decorations.
Inside the House
Inside the house, you can still see many original features. These include old wooden details and hardware. The floors are made of oak wood with beautiful mahogany designs. There are also two fancy fireplaces made of black marble.
Who Was Israel Washburn, Jr.?
The house was built in 1840 by Israel Washburn, Jr.. He moved in shortly after he got married. He lived here until 1863. Washburn came from a family that was very involved in politics.
Washburn's Political Career
He first joined the state legislature in 1851. Later, he served two terms as the Governor of Maine. This was during the time of the American Civil War. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln chose him for an important job. He became the Collector of the Port of Portland, a position he held until he retired in 1877.
Israel Washburn, Jr. is best remembered for his strong and clear opposition to the expansion of slavery. He spoke out against it often.
