Holmes-Crafts Homestead, Federal period house in North Jay, Maine, United States
The Holmes-Crafts Homestead is a two-story wood frame structure with a hip roof, two chimneys, and original clapboards situated on about five acres of land. The building displays features typical of Federal period architecture from the early 1800s.
The property was purchased in 1820 by James Starr, who served as Jay's first postmaster, and later came into the hands of his son-in-law Aruna Holmes. Holmes, a cabinetmaker, acquired it in 1833 and influenced its development.
The interior shows craftsmanship from the early 1800s with wide pine floors and original hardware that reflect how people built homes in New England at that time.
The house sits at the southern junction of Old Jay Hill Road and Main Street, making it straightforward to locate from the road. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since the grounds invite walking around the property to see all the details.
The house retains many original exterior elements including period-specific window designs and a Federal style entrance with detailed sidelights. These original features offer visitors a rare look at craftsmanship from two centuries ago.
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