Bessie Monroe House, Salem

The William Murray House is a living testament to the architectural evolution of the 17th and 18th centuries. This historic First Period house, comprised of two distinct sections, reveals the changing building methods and styles that shaped the region's heritage.

The William Murray House is not a singular entity but a harmonious marriage of two architectural periods. The westernmost section, dating back to around 1688, stands as the elder statesman of the house. It spans three window bays wide and a single room in depth, bearing the hallmark features of a bygone era.

In contrast, the eastern section arrived on the scene in the late 17th or early 18th century. Also boasting three bays in width and one room in depth, it represents a transition into a more modern architectural style.

Over the centuries, the house underwent a series of transformative changes. The western portion initially featured an overhanging section on the second floor. However, in the early 18th century, a more contemporary roof with a flatter pitch was installed, concealing the overhang by constructing a flush wall. This alteration reflects the evolving tastes and building techniques of the time.

For nearly a century, the two sections of the house remained under separate ownership, resulting in distinct staircases. One of these staircases boasts Second Period (mid-18th century) turned woodwork, reflecting the transition from one architectural era to another.

In 1780, the William Murray House underwent a meticulous restoration, masterminded by a skilled local woodworker. This restoration documented many of its First Period features while preserving original decorations, thus ensuring the house's continued legacy.