William Murray House, Colonial residence in Salem, US
The William Murray House is a two-story wood structure with two clearly distinct sections, each featuring three columns of windows. The composition shows how the building was altered and expanded over time.
The western section of the house was built around 1688 and underwent reconstruction in the early 1700s when its projecting upper floor was replaced with a flush wall. This change reflected shifting architectural trends in the region.
The house displays building elements from two different periods that remain visible today. This mix of older and newer details tells the story of changing construction techniques in New England.
The house is located on Essex Street in downtown Salem and can be easily reached on foot. The setting is near other historic buildings, so visitors can explore multiple locations in a single day.
From 1759 until the mid-1800s, the two sections of the house had different owners, leading to the installation of separate staircases in each part. This division remains visible in the interior layout today.
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