The Sippican Historical Society and the Marion Historical Commission will host a 3-part June lecture series on Henry Hobson Richardson and his Percy Browne House in Marion.
The kickoff event will be June 11 at the Marion Music Hall. Following the Sippican Historical Society’s annual meeting at 6:30 pm, the jSociety will host a 7:00 pm presentation by Chris Milford, Jay Wickersham and Hope Mayo on their new book, Henry Hobson Richardson: Drawings from the Collection of Houghton Library, Harvard University. The authors will discuss the extensive collection of Richardson drawings and what they reveal about collaboration in his studio. Designs for the Percy Browne House in Marion (192 Front Street) are included in the book.
On Tuesday, June 17, architect Mark Wright will present his research on the original design of the Percy Browne House and its significance in the history of Marion in the Gilded Age. Mr. Wright is a partner in the firm Wright & Robinson of Glen Ridge NJ, which specializes in sensitive renovations and additions to historic properties. His paper H.H. Richardson’s House for Reverend Browne, Rediscovered was published in 2009 and continues to be the definitive analysis of the house and its changes over time. Mr. Wright’s extensive knowledge and quirky fascination with all things H. H. Richardson promise to make this an informative event. It will take place at 6:30 pm at the Marion Music Hall.
On Tuesday, June 24, again at 6:30 pm at the Marion Music Hall, local photographer and Richardson enthusiast Bryan McSweeny will give a talk on H.H. Richardson’s buildings in New England, based on photographs and research for his book Henry Hobson Richardson in New England. A long-time Marion resident and member of the Marion Historical Commission, Dr. McSweeny’s photographic talents have inspired him to document many historic properties in Marion and throughout New England.