New Hampshire is full of so many historic treasures that it’s easy to take them for granted — so it’s important to stop every once in a while and remember that we are truly lucky to live in a part of America that has seen, and been part of, so many remarkable moments in time. It’s a lot easier to keep that in mind if you explore historic sites, and there’s one remarkable home in Portsmouth that hides an incredible, and mysterious, artistic treasure that you’re sure to awe.
Built in 1716 for Captain Archibald Macpheadris, scion of an influential Portsmouth family, the Warner House is a fine example of an early Georgian brick home. When the last member of the Macpheadris family died in 1932, the Warner House Association was formed to purchase and preserve the house. The association maintains the home to this day — and keeps it open to the public.
Facebook/The Warner House
Though the whole home is remarkable, the real treasure inside is the four mural-covered walls surrounding the stairwell. These murals, painted in 1718, are considered the oldest surviving Anglo-American wall paintings in the nation.
Facebook/The Warner House
For many years these gorgeous works of art were covered by wallpaper until their rediscovery in the mid-19th century. By that time, the name of the artist, and the exact meaning of the murals had been lost to history.
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Some of the murals are easy to understand, while others, like this woman with a spinning wheel outdoors, are confusing even to historians. The mystery only makes them more fascinating, though!
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There’s plenty to see here besides the murals, though. The views from the home are absolutely magnificent, too!
Facebook/The Warner House
The home’s garden is absolutely lovely in the summertime.
Facebook/The Warner House
You never know what you’ll find at the Warner House — events like costumed teas bring the past to life in incredible ways, so keep an eye on their calendar!
Facebook/The Warner House
Facebook/The Warner House
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The Warner House’s main season for tours runs June through October, though out-of-season tours can be scheduled on request. For more details and additional history of the house, visit the Warner House Association’s website.
If you love New Hampshire’s old homes and estates, you’re sure to love these gorgeous gardens.
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