Dear Mary,

Tear down the Ship St Grandee (and rip out its orchard)? I hope it’s a baseless rumor.

The magnetism and magic of the house is palpable to one such as I who is easily lured off course by a promising pile of curbside trash (heaps that give off “value vibes”) and rotting majestic clapboard Federalist houses (with tired ghosts sighing “Save me … “.)

Doesn’t the building have a wonderful color (patina if it was a kneehole desk). It is a real life version of one of those Daily New photos of town in the 1960’s. Do the trees in back bear sweet fruit?

As it stands now, I suppose the house is a reminder of how far Newburyport has come in rehabilitating itself. Is it the last remaining unrestored old heap of a grand house?

I’m so happy to know that there is at least one other person who adores the grand duplex. I have been holding my breath for years in anticipation of this recent development. Ack, there’s that word again.

Thanks for your update. Keep up the great work.

PS. As you know, the design ratios of modern dwellings are based on measurements related to 4’x8′ (the size of sheets of plywood and dry wall). They are studded on 16 inch centers. The windows fit neatly in between. The roof line is nice and straight – never hogged looking. So calming to the eye. Not!

Ed Taylor
Newburyport