Center of the Home

In the late 19th century, Freedman's Cottages were simple two room homes.  Our home which came in in the late 1920's was originally just two rooms with an out house along the side of the house.  Our's did not show indoor plumbing being original to the house, so they may have gotten water at a pump outside the house.  These two original rooms in our Freeman's Cottage are the best structurally of the entire home.  The timbers and heart pine framing done in the balloon style has stood the test of time.  The additions that came later are the areas showing most decline.

In the Center of the Freedman's Cottage was a fireplace which doubled for both heat and cooking.   Our fireplace had been framed around with gypsum and wooden mantles placed in the front modernizing some of the old brick.  This weekend we are removing the gypsum board and I'd like to think revealing the feel of the home.  We will have to clean it up and repair the loose ends, but a brass brush should show the beauty of this brick.  Metal brushes are said to leave black marks on the brick.

The fireplace extends up into the exposed beams.  The hole that was filled in may have been used for a stove and pipe many years ago.  The brick would have to be repaired in those places.  Greg said we do have some of these original bricks loose under the house.  These bricks differ from the chimney we removed in the kitchen several months ago.  This was original to the house.  We will have to open and line it if we intend to use it.

The walls on either side of the fireplace will be removed.  Greg has torn out all the gypsum board to be able to frame the ceiling with exposed beams.  Our stove sits temporarily here because of the gas connection that yet has to be moved into the kitchen.

Greg is now wiring the ceiling and has the structure finished for wall board.  We are finding we may have room in the attic space for our duct work.  We need to have it well insulated to allow the ducts to work efficiently.

Greg framed in a stationary window on the east side of the house that borders our neighbors property.  We want natural light, but ability to maintain privacy.

Ceiling system as viewed standing in the kitchen.  We are leaving the exposed beams and have yet to decide how they will be finished.  We are leaning towards a white wash.  The cathedral ceiling shape will be covered in bead board painted blue.  We are excited about getting our electrical inspection.  Many of the wires you are currently seeing are temporary and not code.  The electrical is moving a little slower than anticipated as we make decisions where things will be placed and what outlets will be needed.

Ceiling view into the kitchen and toward the back door.  The hardwood has been installed back to the rear hall.  Overall, the house is feeling warmer and more moving forward!  We hope to be living in this area in the next few months. Until next time, enjoy the cooler weather!