LAMBERT HOUSE - at risk
The Lambert House at 128 Chestnut Street dates to 1854 and was the home of an important family for 50 years. It was at risk of demolition in 2017. One of the few remaining antebellum houses on West Newton Hill, it was built for Rev Henry Lambert, an active abolitionist and leader in civil service reform. Nearby at the intersection of Chestnut & Highland Streets is a fountain and sculpture by Anne Whitney, given to the City of Newton in memory of Henry’s wife, Catherine Wigglesworth Porter Lambert. (See more background under the "Learn" tab.)
In April, 2018, City Council members from Ward 3 requested that the Newton Historical Commission consider Local Landmark status for this house given its architectural and historical significance. See May 11 Boston Globe article here. The owner’s representatives explained the plan to sell to a developer who would demolish the house and subdivide the lot.
The Newton Historical Commission accepted a request for a continuance at its May meeting. At the June 28, 2018, meeting, the NHC voted to name the house a Local Landmark. See July 5, 2018, Boston Globe article here.
UPDATE 2022
The historic house, which had originally been at the center of the lot, was subsequently moved forward towards Chestnut Street, in order to make room for a subdivision with a second lot behind it. A large new home was constructed facing Westfield Road. Both lots remain under the oversight of the Newton Historical Commission. Although substantially renovated and altered, the Lambert House is still standing.