Black Rock Houses

There are over 90 pre-1850 standing houses that still exist in Black Rock. 

  

This home is built in the Federal style of Medina sandstone. The builder used large blocks of stone to build the entire house indicative of wealth. The windows look to be replaced but you can still see the symmetry that exists The low pitched roof and smooth facade also indicate the federal style.

 This home on Amherst Street is built/renovated in a mix of Federal and Greek Revival style. It is a basic rectangular frame structure with a low-pitched gable roof - end toward street. There is also a cornice over the front door with sidelights. The large windows with double-hung sashes have six panes per sash and separated by thin wooden supports, iconic of the federal style.

This homes exterior is a variation of many styles but stripped down the Foursquare elements come to life. It is evident that this building is laid out in a four room per floor fashion, it is very square and boxy. These homes were most commonly built in frame, but they are also found in stone or brick.or concrete block, or wood siding. All of these can be seen on this home.






From walking through this neighborhood I have realized the historical value of many of these homes. The entire area consists of pre-1900's as stated before. Many of the homes have been "modernized" but still remember their roots. Some homes have a mix of styles which makes them even more interesting. It becomes much clearer now where the wealth in this area tended to settle and what styles they chose. The homes along Amherst Street have a distinct Federal style to them with variations but home around them are much simpler and smaller. I get the sense that many of these homes were working class people but that the wealthy business men of the day were mixed in too.