12 California Street

History

This two-story dwelling, with a pitched roof and a three-bay facade, is typical of the Greek Revival vernacular architecture built in Newburyport during the mid-19th century.

The influence of the Greek style is seen in the building’s orientation, with the gable of the pitched roof facing the street, reminiscent of a Greek pediment. The cornerboards and bold cornice fascia are also inspired by Greek design, as is the front entrance. The door is flanked by pilasters that support a bold entablature.

On October 15, 1847, this parcel of land was purchased from Alfred Pearson by John W. S. Colby. This house was probably built shortly thereafter.

John W. S. Colby was a shipbuilder in partnership with Enoch P. Lunt under the firm name of Colby and Lunt. They worked in a shipyard at the foot of Ashland Street. They were in business between 1865 and 1880. Between 1865 and 1868, they launched nine schooners. Later, they built scows for the Haverhill Tow Boat Company. When the business closed, they had built a total tonnage of 3,707.

Before 1912, Henry P. and Annie M. Brown acquired this house. In that year, they sold the property to Mary A. Pillsbury.