It takes a special kind of dedication to restore an 18th-century house using period-appropriate materials and methods. The Thomas Loring House in Newburyport stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when passion meets craftsmanship.
Restoration contractor Kevin McColgan spent years meticulously preserving the timber framing, plaster walls, and hand-forged hardware of this historic residence. His efforts ensure that the house retains its authentic early American character for future generations to admire.
Doing the work the traditional way gave him a deeper appreciation of the Loring House. The thought of ripping out the early plaster, tossing old windows and demolishing the ancient chimney, “these acts became unfathomable after discovering what it took to make them,” he wrote.
The men who built the house for Thomas Loring so long ago would appreciate that.
(McColgan, a preservation contractor, will talk about his book, A House Restored, in a free public program at 7 p.m., Friday, May 16 at the Newburyport Senior Community Center, 331 High St. The program, which kicks off Preservation Week sponsored by the Newburyport Preservation Trust, will be followed by a book signing and refreshments.)