Returning the Charm to a 19th Century Captain’s House on Martha’s Vineyard

O Captain, My Captain!

When a Captain’s House on Martha’s Vineyard that was built in the 1870s had fallen into complete disrepair and couldn’t be salvaged, Colonial Reproductions stepped in to return the charmer to its former glory. The new owners, who had another home on the Vineyard, were afraid that a new build wouldn’t have the character or dignity of the original home, so they snatched it up to ensure that the cottage built for Captain Thomas Fordham, a 19^th-century whaling captain, would have its place on the picturesque street for years to come.

Patrick Ahearn FAIA, of Patrick Ahearn Architect, who is a master at historic renovations that simulate the virtues from decades of old, was the natural choice as architect. It’s no exaggeration to say that Ahearn has both transformed and revitalized Edgartown, and that’s exactly what he did for this Captain’s Home.

To give the home just the right look, reclaimed pine flooring, antique window glass and architectural details and flourishes reminiscent of the 1800s were used throughout the living spaces, giving guests the feeling that they’ve stepped back in time.

Yet, as much as refined and nostalgic materials and elements were prized, the team took the opportunity to reconfigure the layout to accommodate the lifestyles of present-day vacationers. The kitchen was relocated to the east side of the home so that it could bask in the morning sun, and the stairs were repositioned to the middle of the home to create a better traffic flow.

A wealth of windows and doors on the rear facade overlooking the pool terrace and spa were added to usher in more of that glorious Vineyard light, while handsome custom cabinets and bookcases flank an upstairs fireplace for those cozy, cooler Island nights.

The home has just the right mix of past meets present, ideal for vacationers looking for a true Martha’s Vineyard experience. In fact, we hear the Colonial Reproductions home is available for summer rentals. Talk about a vintage stay!

Builder: Colonial Reproductions, Inc.
Architect: Patrick Ahearn Architect
Photography by Greg Premru

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