Arnold House

Interest Areas: History / Heritage, Architecture

Built by Eleazor Arnold in 1693, the Arnold House is a rare surviving example of a "stone-ender," a once common building type first developed in the western part of England. With an exposed fieldstone end wall and pilastered chimney, the Arnold House was originally a two-story structure with an integral lean-to and four rooms on each floor.

A front gable, possibly original, once topped the structure. The result was a much grander dwelling than the typical Rhode Island stone-ender.

Donated to Historic New England in 1919 by Preserved Whipple Arnold, the house has undergone two phases of restoration. In 1920, stabilization efforts were directed by Norman Isham, a leader in architectural restoration, and in 1950, a complete structural rehabilitation of the house and chimney was undertaken.

It was during the latter work that the decision was made to remove later alterations and return the building to its 17th century appearance. While some details, including the leaded glass windows and the front door and surround, are 20th century replacements, the overall image of the building is still a recognizable icon of early settlement in Rhode Island. The Clemence-Irons House, another Rhode Island stone-ender, is nearby.