Sadly we have lost another historic house to fire.
This was the former grand estate of Philip and Avis Wentworth, 308 Hampshire Street which burned Thursday night November 15, 2018. No one was home. But this lovely stately home and barn is gone.
Historic Philip and Avis Wentworth Estate before the fire.
Built c. 1850 and renovated extensively in the Victorian style included a house and barn with an exterior silo, the last remaining one in Hiram, Maine. The Wentworths had converted it into an artist's studio. The gardens were extensive and included a garden house, a greenhouse, pergola, grape arbor, and outdoor fireplace and seating.
In 2014 Portland artist Leslie Anderson painted it for the "Hiram in Art" show and sale during Hiram's Bicentennial celebrations. The house was for sale and needed much repair.
We trudged through the snow to photograph the remains of the historic Philip and Avis Wentworth Estate. Haunting. Outbuildings were not damaged by fire but neglect has taken its toll.
Historic Philip and Avis Wentworth Estate after the fire on November 15, 2018.
We hope any future development will not obliterate all traces of this majestic piece of Hiram's heritage.
Contributed by Sally Williams, Hiram Historical Society
