THE DEMOLITION of homes along the west side of Crescent Street to make room for the coming Brightview Senior Living facility began this morning with this home at 17 Crescent St. The house has been dated back to the 1780s and was a favorite of preservationists who maintain that it had historical significance. Before it was moved to Crescent Street, the house was located on Main Street, across from Crystal Lake. Historians say that it once belonged to Dr. John Hart, a physician who was an associate of Gen. George Washington during the Revolutionary War. Dr. Hart also served the town as a member of the Board of Selectmen, the School Committee and State Representative. He was also one of the town’s largest property owners. He died in 1836 at age 85 and is buried in the Old Burial Ground on Church Street. (Mark Sardella Photo)
Published in the January 12, 2016 edition.
