Harrison Loring House, Second Empire house in South Boston, Massachusetts, United States.
The Harrison Loring House is a residential building at 789 East Broadway in South Boston that features a distinctive mansard roof and elaborate facade details. The structure combines brick with brownstone trim and displays typical Second Empire architectural characteristics such as projecting sections and decorative cornices.
The house was built in 1865 when Harrison Loring, a wealthy shipyard owner, constructed his residence in this developing neighborhood. Its construction was part of a wave of upscale residential development that characterized South Boston during 19th-century expansion.
The residence reflects the tastes of wealthy 19th-century merchants who built such elaborate homes as symbols of their prosperity and standing. This type of residence in South Boston served as a statement of business success and social position.
The best view of the building is from East Broadway, where you can take in its full facade and architectural features. It is easy to spot and accessible for outside observation to study its design details.
The central section of the building projects forward to create a striking entrance area protected by a shallow porch with decorative carved cornices. This architectural feature emphasizes the entry zone and gives the facade a three-dimensional quality.
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