News Summary
The historic Philip Walker House in East Providence, Rhode Island, is now on the rental market for $2,900 monthly. Following extensive restorations, Preserve Rhode Island has modernized this significant 1724 structure, restoring its architectural integrity while enhancing livability. The property, recognized for its Georgian architectural style, aims to attract tenants interested in its rich history and modern amenities, marking a new chapter for the iconic house.
East Providence
The historic Philip Walker House, located at 432 Massasoit Ave. in East Providence, Rhode Island, is now available for rent at a monthly price of $2,900. This marks a significant milestone following extensive restoration efforts that have revitalized the property, which was originally constructed in 1724.
Preserve Rhode Island has owned the Philip Walker House since 1984 and has invested hundreds of thousands of dollars into its restoration. The income generated from renting the property is expected to aid Preserve Rhode Island in recouping this investment.
Restoration and Modernization
As part of the restoration process, the house underwent significant enhancements focusing on its structural integrity and modernization. In recent renovations, a partnership with Heritage Restoration and Preservation Strategies resulted in comprehensive rehabilitation of the house’s interior, completed last month. Improvements included cleaning, painting, treating floors, carpentry repairs, and the fabrication of a new custom mantle for the fireplace.
Historical Significance
The Philip Walker House has a rich history. Originally, it was designed as a four-room dwelling, complete with a central chimney used for cooking and heating. In 2003, a research team determined the accurate construction date through dendrochronology, confirming its origins in the early 18th century.
Although the house served as a vital research site for architectural historians and students, the invasive studies ultimately compromised its livability. Renovations began in 1990 and initially emphasized the exterior, later expanding to include plumbing and HVAC system updates by 2008.
Past and Present
The Walker House was initially believed to have been erected on the remnants of a structure that was destroyed during King Philip’s War in 1679. It was named after Philip Walker, a notable landowner known for his various roles as a farmer and deacon, and who raised ten children on the property. The house remained in the Walker family for generations before being deeded to Preserve Rhode Island by Faith Shedd Potter in the 1980s.
Architectural Features
Recognized for its architectural significance, the Philip Walker House reflects early Georgian architectural styles with striking features such as chimney breasts and intricately detailed doors. The house was included in the National Register of Historic Places in 1972, underscoring its importance to the region’s heritage.
With the recent upgrades and the ability to rent the property, Preserve Rhode Island hopes to attract potential tenants who appreciate both the historical and modern aspects of living in such a unique site. The availability of the property signals a new chapter in the Walker House’s storied history, offering an opportunity for residents to inhabit a piece of Rhode Island’s rich cultural heritage.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- PBN: Five Questions with Paul Trudeau
- Wikipedia: Historic Preservation
- Providence Journal: Philip Walker House Needs a New Tenant
- Google Search: Historical Houses in Rhode Island
- RI Monthly: Seventeenth Century House Museum’s Path to Preservation
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
