James Smith Homestead facts for kids
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James Smith Homestead
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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 Location in Maine
Location in the United States
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| Location | 5 Russell Farm Road (corner of ME 35), Kennebunk, Maine |
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| Area | 1 acre (0.40 ha) |
| Built | 1753 |
| Architectural style | Georgian |
| Part of | Lower Alewive Historic District (ID94000178) |
| NRHP reference No. | 82001887 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | February 4, 1982 |
| Designated CP | March 24, 1994 |
The James Smith Homestead is a very old house in Kennebunk, Maine. It is located on Russell Farm Road. This house was built in 1753. It is one of the few old farmhouses left from the mid-1700s in the area. The James Smith Homestead was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. It is also part of the Lower Alewive Historic District.
Discovering the James Smith Homestead
The James Smith Homestead sits a bit back from Russell Farm Road. This road is just north of Maine State Route 35. Russell Farm Road used to be longer. It was once part of Emmons Road. But a big highway, Interstate 95, made it shorter.
What Does the House Look Like?
The house is a two-and-a-half story building. It is made of wood. It has five sections across its front. A large chimney is in the center of the house. The outside walls are covered with clapboard siding. The house sits on a strong granite foundation.
The front of the house faces southwest. It looks very balanced and even. The main door is in the middle. It has a curved opening. Pillars stand on each side of the door. A pointed roof shape, called a pediment, is above the door. A smaller, one-and-a-half story section sticks out to the right. There is also a barn further to the east.
The History of the Homestead
James Smith bought 50 acres of land here in 1753. He built a house on this land soon after. People have always believed the current house was built in 1753. However, experts have studied the building. They think it was more likely built around 1800. It is possible that parts of the original 1753 house are still inside.
The Smith family owned this house for four generations. That means four different sets of parents and children lived there. The Lower Alewive area was very important for farming. It was one of Kennebunk's main farming areas in the 1700s.
