Hawkes House, Salem

Designed by Samuel McIntire, the Hawkes House bears the hallmark of his architectural brilliance. Samuel McIntire, revered for his contributions to early American architecture, left an indelible mark on Salem's cityscape. His work was characterized by intricate details and timeless elegance, making him a master of Federal style architecture.

Construction of the Hawkes House began in 1780, commissioned by Elias Hasket Derby and Elizabeth Derby. However, the Derbys never completed the dwelling, choosing instead to relocate to a house in the town center. Their decision created an opportunity for another prominent figure in Salem's maritime history to leave his mark on the residence.

In 1800, the house found a new owner in Benjamin Hawkes, a shipbuilder whose reputation extended far and wide. Hawkes, with a keen eye for architecture and design, undertook alterations to the unfinished house. His ownership marked the beginning of a new chapter for the residence, one that would see it become the Hawkes House we know today.

The Hawkes House is a splendid example of the large Federal style homes that graced Salem's streets in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. These three-story structures, known for their timeless elegance, featured meticulously carved and painted entrances and an abundance of windows that flooded the rooms with natural light and fresh air. The house's square design exudes a sense of grandeur that was characteristic of the era.