Charles Allen House, Worcester
The Charles Allen House is a historically significant residence built in 1870. This house is a notable example of Second Empire architecture, characterized by its distinctive mansard roof and elegant design. The house was commissioned by Charles Allen, a prominent Massachusetts lawyer, politician, and jurist, who played a significant role in Worcester's legal and political spheres. The property on which the house stands previously belonged to Governor Levi Lincoln, Jr. Allen orchestrated the relocation of Lincoln's original house to make room for his own residence, reflecting the high-profile nature of the individuals associated with this location.
Architecturally, the Charles Allen House is a three-story structure with a square layout, featuring a projecting ell at the rear. The front facade is distinguished by a central pavilion that slightly projects outward and rises two stories, culminating in a pedimented gable. This central feature adds depth and prominence to the building’s design. The house's main roof cornice and the cornice of the front porch are adorned with modillions, which are small, bracket-like projections that add to the decorative richness typical of Second Empire architecture. The porch, which shelters the front entry, further enhances the building's stately appearance.
The Charles Allen House is also notable for its historical context and associations. Charles Allen was a native of Worcester and had a distinguished career in law, practicing with John Davis, another Massachusetts governor. Allen's influence and status in the community are reflected in the grandeur of the house he designed. The house’s preservation and subsequent listing on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980 highlight its architectural and historical significance.
Architecturally, the Charles Allen House is a three-story structure with a square layout, featuring a projecting ell at the rear. The front facade is distinguished by a central pavilion that slightly projects outward and rises two stories, culminating in a pedimented gable. This central feature adds depth and prominence to the building’s design. The house's main roof cornice and the cornice of the front porch are adorned with modillions, which are small, bracket-like projections that add to the decorative richness typical of Second Empire architecture. The porch, which shelters the front entry, further enhances the building's stately appearance.
The Charles Allen House is also notable for its historical context and associations. Charles Allen was a native of Worcester and had a distinguished career in law, practicing with John Davis, another Massachusetts governor. Allen's influence and status in the community are reflected in the grandeur of the house he designed. The house’s preservation and subsequent listing on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980 highlight its architectural and historical significance.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Worcester. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Charles Allen House on Map
Sight Name: Charles Allen House
Sight Location: Worcester, USA (See walking tours in Worcester)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Worcester, USA (See walking tours in Worcester)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Worcester, Massachusetts
Create Your Own Walk in Worcester
Creating your own self-guided walk in Worcester is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Worcester Historic Houses Walk
Worcester, Massachusetts, is not just a hub of modern development and educational excellence; it also harbors a rich collection of historic residences, each with its own story and architectural significance. These houses offer a glimpse into the lives of some of the city's influential figures from various periods and the architectural trends that shaped their homes.
One of the notable... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.9 Km or 1.2 Miles
One of the notable... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.9 Km or 1.2 Miles
Worcester Introduction Walking Tour
Known as the "Heart of the Commonwealth," Worcester's central location in Massachusetts has played a pivotal role in its development from a quiet settlement to a bustling urban center.
The name "Worcester" is taken from the city in England. The Massachusetts counterpart was incorporated in 1722 and has since grown into the second-largest city in New England. Its growth... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
The name "Worcester" is taken from the city in England. The Massachusetts counterpart was incorporated in 1722 and has since grown into the second-largest city in New England. Its growth... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Canal District Walking Tour
The Canal District in Worcester, Massachusetts, is a lively and historic area that has seen considerable rejuvenation recently. Originally home to the Blackstone Canal, instrumental in Worcester's industrial boom during the 19th century, the neighborhood has evolved into a vibrant center of activity. It skillfully merges Worcester’s industrial past with contemporary urban growth, showcasing... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
Worcester Architectural Jewels
In Worcester, Massachusetts, you'll find a trove of architectural wonders reflecting the city's rich historical and cultural heritage. Among these jewels is Mechanics Hall, a stunning Victorian-era concert hall renowned for its complex design and exceptional acoustics. Nearby stands the Wesley United Methodist Church, an elegant example of Gothic Revival architecture, with its towering... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles