Testimonial

Current Jonathan Cutler Homestead Owners
February 22, 2009

At a time when most 'craftsman ' seem most interested in just getting a Job done, even if it means cutting corners, Old New England Restoration is a remarkable exception. Restoration is far more than just reconstruction. It requires knowledge, special expertise and patience. Not surprisingly, as with any old house restoration, we discovered unexpected problems that had to be addressed. At every step of the process, Bill Hardiman diligently assessed the situation and presented us with options, being sensitive to both the needs of this old house and the balance in our checking account! Wherever possible, he tried to preserve original structural elements and architectural features. When preservation was not appropriate, he restored the original work if he could, resorting to replacement only when it was necessary to ensure safety and quality. His honesty, understanding and commitment to both us and the Jonathan Cutler Homestead as a living piece of history gave us great comfort and satisfaction that the job was being done right. His care in selecting appropriate materials and his application of both traditional and, where appropriate, modern construction techniques, produced stunning results. The restoration of the Jonathan Cutler Homestead was a very big job, and it was done very carefully and extremely well.

There is something very special about living in an historic building, and that opportunity carries with it certain responsibilities. People who choose to live in old houses understand that they are just passing through--the Jonathan Cutler Homestead was here long before the Declaration of Independence was written, before our Constitution was signed. It had stood proudly for more than a century before the Civil War. This grand house has stood witness to the entire history of our nation and deserves respect as part of our heritage. Sure, it has changed over time as all things do. It has had a life of its own. This dwelling has provided not only shelter, but a place for families to live and grow together...The Cutlers, the Travis family, and those families who have who succeeded them, including ours. Our responsibility and desire was to do more than just 'fix the place up'. It was very clear to us that Old New England Restoration felt the same way. Thanks to their special skill, emphasis on quality craftsmanship and painstaking attention to every detail, the Jonathan Cutler Homestead is stronger and more beautiful than ever, and will continue to be part of our heritage for generations to come, even if we are only passing through. We could not be more impressed by or more satisfied with the work of Old New England Restoration; it is not very often that one can make a statement like that today.

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