Скачать или смотреть An Unparalleled Wedding Gift: The Ann Starrett House

In 1889, local contractor and businessman George Starrett bequeathed his wife Ann a wedding present that would transcend their marriage and subsequent generations of admirers. Considered the Grand Dame of Port Townsend Victorian mansions, the palatial residence features 11 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms and a free hung staircase constructed of five different woods rising ten feet from entry to dome. Additional attractions include a library, parlor and sitting room.

Frescoes of painted maidens adorn the interior dome accentuated by exquisite woodwork detailing, painted elevated ceilings, and maximum light and views available in every room. The frescoes were intended to service as a solar calendar. During the initial day of a fresh season, the sun shined through a window to a ruby-red glass in the center of the dome, which would then reflect the sunbeam

The elaborate house is distinguished from its neighboring Victorian constructions due to the jig-sawn exterior embellishments that include stars, sunrises, scrolls, wings and patterns suspended from the eaves. The mansion is crowned with a four-story polygonal tower with a multiple dormered top extending above a pedimented entrance. George Starrett who developed a substantial reputation as a carpenter experimented with the latest novelties and technologies such as the inclusion of a central heating system in creating his masterpiece.

Anna Dedrika Van Bokkelen Starrett was born on May 15, 1863 in Washington Territory. Her marriage ceremony was conducted on February 19, 1887 at the home of Mary Condon who served as a witness along with her husband John Condon. Father Maniouloux of St. Mary’s Port Townsend Catholic Church performed the ceremony.

She would enjoy her palatial gift for twenty-five years before dying at the age of 51 during August 1914. She would be buried at the Laurel Grove Cemetery in Port Townsend. Her husband George, who was nine years older, would survive her by thirteen years, dying at the age of 72 in July 1927. He is buried separately from his wife at Saint Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Port Townsend. He never re-married following his wife’s death. The couple shared one son Edwin who passed away during 1981.

As is often the case with distinctive mansions, apparitions accompany the narrative. The property is currently a hospitality accommodation. Guests have spotted a red haired woman on the staircase often wandering liberally throughout the hotel. A male often accompanies her and periodically another woman wearing a black dress. The obvious candidates are Ann and George Starrett and potentially a nanny. Given the superb detailing and craftsmanship invested in the residence, it is little wonder that the builder would wish to insure that is properly cared for.