On July 2, 2020, Haddam Killingworth News published a notice for the demolition of 140 Dublin Hill Road. The building is listed on Haddams’ Historic Building List and has been identified by the Connecticut’ State Historic Preservation Office as a significant architectural and historical building. On July 3, 2020 the Haddam Historical Society filed an objection to the application for demolition for 140 Dublin Hill Road. The town ordinance allows interested parties 120 days (extended to 180 days due to Covid 19) to work through alternatives to demolition. This demolition delay expires on December 29, 2020.
The Town of Haddam Planning and Zoning will also review the application for demolition under their new regulation Section 15A Historic Preservation by Special Permit. “The Zoning Regulations conclude that the historic structures have a historic, cultural, architectural and economic significance and contribute to a healthy and thriving future for the Town of Haddam. It also concludes that Haddam derives much of its charm and unique appearance from its architecture and from its history.” The purpose of the Regulation is to insure all feasible and prudent alternatives to the demolition have been considered.
The HEARING FOR 140 DUBLIN HILL ROAD IS SEPTEMBER 3, 2020, 7 PM AT HADDAM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CAFETERIA, 272 SAYBROOK ROAD, HIGGANUM.
The Haddam Historical Society finds that the Leverett Spencer House at 140 Dublin Hill Road the best and most well-preserved examples of workers’ housing in Higganum reflecting the growth of the area’s industry during the second half of the 19th century and development of neighborhoods for employees at the factories. The building is also a strong link to the working-class and immigrant families of our community whose stories of diligence, determination and industriousness are an important part of our community’s heritage.
The ideal solution would be to restore and preserve the building on its original site or relocate it on its current lot to appease some of the objections by the owner. Other options could be to relocate the building to a site in Higganum. We would hate to see our community lose a building with strong ties to our manufacturing and immigrant past.
The owner has met with staff and a representative of Preservation Connecticut (formerly the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation). This building is available at no cost, though an interested party would be responsible for deconstruction and move to a new location.