Historic John Mawney House Sold for $1.8 Million

Categories: Business NewsNewsReal Estate & Properties

The recently sold John Mawney House, an architectural gem in Providence, dating back to 1764.

News Summary

The John Mawney House in Providence has been sold for $1.8 million, marking its first appearance on the real estate market in over 50 years. Built in 1764, this historic property is notable for its architectural significance and connection to writer H.P. Lovecraft. The sale reflects the ongoing interest in historical homes in the area, highlighting both their financial and cultural value. The property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, emphasizing its importance to Providence’s heritage.

Providence

The John Mawney House, a historic property located at 135 Benefit Street on the East Side of Providence, has recently been sold for $1.8 million. This sale marks the first time the home has been on the real estate market in over 50 years. Compass Inc. facilitated the transaction, representing both the seller, Timothy and Rebecca More, and the buyers, Whitman and Abigail Littlefield, who are both from Providence.

This significant sale highlights not only the property’s financial value but also its historical and architectural importance. The John Mawney House, built in 1764, is recognized for its distinctive overhanging-gable construction that harmonizes with the steep topography of its site. The two-story house features four bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and one half-bathroom, alongside an unattached 500-square-foot wooden garage and a 300-square-foot patio.

This house is famously associated with writer H.P. Lovecraft, as it served as a residence for his aunt and inspired his 1927 horror story, “The Shunned House.” Lovecraft used the property’s basement as a pivotal setting in his narrative, further enhancing the home’s allure and significance in literary history. The property also bears a plaque from the Providence Preservation Society, identifying it as “the earliest remaining house” on Benefit Street.

Valuation and Historical Significance

Before the sale, the city assessed the house at a value of $936,800 for the fiscal year 2024, with the land alone valued at $384,400. The property is listed on both the National Register of Historic Places and the Rhode Island State Register, underscoring its status as a significant cultural and historical landmark in the region.

Architectural Features

The entrance frame of the John Mawney House draws inspiration from the design of Shakespeare’s Head, also referred to as the John Carter House, which adds further depth to its historical narrative. Originally owned by a physician, John Mawney, the basement of this house was utilized as an office before becoming infamous due to its role in Lovecraft’s story.

Community Context

The sale of the John Mawney House occurs within a complex framework of preservation challenges faced by the Benefit Street area, impacting the diverse resident community, especially African-Americans. The recent Festival of Historic Houses hosted by the Providence Preservation Society featured the Mawney House, illuminating its essential role in the city’s heritage.

John Mawney, the original owner, was notable for having saved the life of Captain William Duddingston in 1772, further entrenching the property in the city’s historical narrative. This sale not only preserves the home’s legacy but also continues its association with prominent historical figures who shaped Providence’s rich history.

In summary, the sale of the John Mawney House at $1.8 million is a significant event for both the local real estate market and for those interested in the historical narratives of Providence. With its connections to H.P. Lovecraft, rich architectural features, and historical significance, this property stands as a remarkable example of the city’s enduring cultural heritage.