H.H. Richardson in Easton: An Architectural Tour

Join us for a guided exploration of five remarkable architectural sites in North Easton, Massachusetts, highlighting the legacy of renowned architect H.H. Richardson and the Ames family. We will park at the North Easton Train Station (1881) and walk to the Ames Free Library (1877) and Oakes Ames Memorial Hall (1881) to begin the tour. Participants will have opportunities for interior and exterior viewing and sketching. There will also be an opportunity view the restored Italian Garden at Queset (1911) and Queset House (Andrew Jackson Downing arch. 1844).

The group will then return to the North Easton Train Station (Richardson 1883), now home to the Easton Historical Society, where historical photographs and documents related to the sites may be on display.

Following a lunch break at Langwater Farm, the tour continues to the Ames Gate Lodge (Richardson 1881) with a brief stop at ‘Wayside’ now Town Hall (Guy Lowell arch.1912) and concludes at ‘Spring Hill’ (Carl Fehmer arch. 1890), the William Hadwen Ames Estate, featuring grounds designed by the Olmsted Brothers. The estate is unoccupied and currently undergoing an extensive renovation. The day ends with time to explore the estate and enjoy an informal reception overlooking the landscape.

Please bring your sketchbooks, a portable stool and be prepared for long walks.

Christopher DeOrsay is a licensed architect in Massachusetts with a practice in traditional and classical architecture focused on custom residential projects. A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design with BFA and B.Arch, Christopher started hand drafting 30 years ago and transitioned to CAD and BIM while working for Campbell Smith Architects. Now owner and principal of DeOrsay Campbell Smith Architects, Christopher continues to develop designs on the drafting table and enjoys field sketching whenever possible. Christopher is a member of AIA, BSA, ICAA and NCARB.