An Architectural Mystery

On receiving my copy of the Spring Edition of the Newsletter, I was intrigued by the Photo of Stonewall Jackson’s House on the front cover,

I brought my observations to the attention of Martin Cross, my 1st Sgt. we agreed that the frontage shown, had been altered, as there were originally four Lintels, we both wondered why and when the alterations had been done, So as Martin was off to the good ol’ U.S.A at the end of May, I set him a challenge to see if he could find a reason for the changes and when they were done. His interim report came in the form of a quick phone-call on the 2nd June.

Stonewall Jackson's House

It appears that a Doctor previously held the property, and he had it altered, [The reason for the two doors is simple one led into the house and the other led straight into his Surgery]. The reason for the steps and the fact that the Lintels of the bottom door and window do not match the rest is also simple, At some time in the house’s history, [Martin did not say when]. the local Council levelled and lowered the original street level, so it became necessary to add the steps and the owners included a door and a window into the cellar at the same time.

As Mysteries go, this one may not rank highly with the many others that abound in that country across the pond, But History is were you find it.

Stuart Munro, Capt. Bty.B.

The above article first appeared in the ACWS Newsletter, Summer 2006