John Ward House, Salem

With its roots dating back to the late 17th century, the John Ward House is a pristine example of First Period architecture and an embodiment of meticulous restoration techniques. Owned by the esteemed Peabody Essex Museum, the John Ward House is a living monument to America's colonial heritage and a designated National Historic Landmark since 1968.

Constructed between 1684 and 1723, the John Ward House is characterized by its two-and-a-half-story wooden frame structure, five-bay façade, and a commanding central chimney. The steep side-gable roof, punctuated by two large cross gable sections, showcases the architectural prowess of its era.

What sets the John Ward House apart is not just its age but its remarkable 20th-century restoration, orchestrated by the distinguished antiquarian George Francis Dow. This restoration effort serves as a textbook example of preserving history with utmost precision. Notably, the house was one of the pioneering colonial-era residences in the United States to be transformed into a museum.

The house's exterior is adorned with diamond-paned casement windows, a hallmark of its timeless charm. The clapboard finish, understated cornerboards, and minimalistic trim contribute to the house's elegant simplicity. The second floor gracefully extends over the first, adding a touch of grandeur to this historical gem.

Stepping inside, visitors encounter a classic center-chimney plan with chambers flanking either side and a narrow stairway leading to the second floor. The left chamber on the second floor, framed in oak, exudes an air of sophistication. On the right, an unrestored chamber offers a glimpse into the past with its faded wallpaper and original plastered ceiling.

The roof, while preserving traditional numbering of its framing elements, bears marks of extensive restoration work undertaken during the meticulous 20th-century renovation.