by Carol Meyer
Downtown Hingham has made it through the challenging Greenbush restoration and numerous other challenging changes and building projects, remaining a popular destination for residents and out-of-town visitors alike. Why? There's the new Heritage Museum at Old Derby, fine dining and shopping opportunities in and around Hingham Square leading to the harbor, Loring Hall Theatre, the new replica Lincoln Building, Old Ship Meetinghouse and other historic churches, live music in at least three venues, and a hometown flavor that can't be beat! What's you favorite thing to do by yourself or with your family in downtown Hingham? Any ideas or suggestions about how the experience could be even better than it already is?! by Carol Meyer
Two earlier proposals for a biergarten and later a residential and commercial mixed use at the long-vacant, dilapidated former Settles Glass site at the intersection of North and Station streets in downtown Hingham didn't happen, but there's hope! Once home to a glass company and later a funky art studio, the latest mixed-use proposal is on a smaller scale than the earlier one. "It's an unusual site, but it's vital in connecting the downtown area to the harbor and will also increase the vitality of downtown Hingham," said Hingham architect Vcevy Strekalovsky, who is designing the project. It's also important that the new building fit into the surrounding neighborhood. Two town boards will meet Tuesday, Dec. 18, in joint session at Town Hall to further review the proposal. If you could wave a magic wand and see your wish materialize, what would you like most to see on this site? by Carol Meyer The future of the 1757 Thomas Barker House at 58 Main St. in Hingham Square is no longer uncertain. The house and barn are gone, with only two chimneys remaining.
That's because following decades of controversy and numerous attempts by owner John Pitts and town officials to save the house through a cooperative effort, a building permit was issued Nov. 30 for both buildings to be demolished for safety reasons on Dec. 3 starting at about 7:30 a.m. While some observers are saddened by the demolition, others think the time was right following many unsuccessful attempts to save the house and to meet deadlines for full restoration plans. Do you think the right decision was made? What do you think would be a good new use for the property? Stop by and see for yourself! |
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Articles
March 2024
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