Built of used ship timbers, planks from other buildings and wooden tools, the oldest houses of Cope Cod hove weathered storms and time A sampling of historic houses shows that behind their charm lies careful planning and practicality.
Dating from 1641, the Wing Fort House in East Sandwich stands as the oldest house in New England continuously inhabited by members of one family -- in this case, for three centuries. Built by Quaker Stephen Wing, one of the Cape's first settlers, this house started out as a one-room homestead with a loft, similar to those the Pilgrims built Constructed with double walls, the "fort" was secured against Indian attacks, which never came from the friendly natives
Stephen's grandson and namesake built his own saltbox next to the Fort House The two homes were combined during the lath century, with each home losing its original chimney and gaining the peaked roof that blanketed both dwellings In the attic, however, the rakers from the Fort House's original peaked roof can be seen, now incorporated into one of the house's gables.
All 12 rooms are filled with Wing furniture and antiques.
Located on Spring Hill Road, near Route 6A in East Sandwich, the Wing Fort House is open 10 a m to 4 p m ., Monday--Friday Tours given by caretakers275
1613 - Enrolled in list of those able to bear arms. 1655 - Constable. There were four wolves killed in the town during this year, for which the Colony allowed L20. 1656,6,6 - He brought suit against Jonathan Fish for L12; but compromised it for L6. 1658,3,2 - He and others for tumultuous carriage at Quaker meeting, "being examined and not found so faulty as was supposed, were admionished and cleared." During this same year, however, he was imprisioned with others, for the crime of being Quackers; and released upon payment of a fine. He was prohibited from taking part in town affairs, till he had taken the oath of fidelity; which, however, he believed unlawful. He and his brother Daniel had bounds of land confirmed this year. 1659,10,6 - Being complained of by Marshal Barlow, for refusing to assist him in the country's service, being required to three several times, the said Stephen Wing is fined for the use of the country the sum of 20s. 1664,7,1 - Grand Inquest. 1666,6,5 - Surveyor of Highways. 1669,6,5 - Town Clerk. 1675,4,23 - In a list of those having just rights and privileges of the town. 1676,3,27 - His oldest son, Stephen, Jr., was killed at the memorable fight at Rehoboth, when Capt. Pierce and nearly all his command lost their lives. 1700,12,2 - Will, proved 1710,7,13. Exectors, sons Ebenezer and Matthew. Witnesses, Stephen Skiffe, Daniel Allen, Joshua Wing, Wm. Bassett. To son Nathaniel, L10. To son Elisha, L10. To daughter Sarah Gifford, 50s. To daughter Abigail, 20s. To son John, a dripping pan and spit. To grandson, Jeremiah Gifford, 20s.[OH]209 |