The Three Sisters, at 17, 19 and 23 Conanicus Ave., will be showcased by the Jamestown Historical Society at this year’s tour of historical homes.
Tickets are on sale for the Jamestown Historical Society’s annual tour of historical homes, which will feature the Three Sisters at 17, 19 and 23 Conanicus Ave., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21.
The three cottages were built in 1897 by Patrick Horgan, owner of the Thorndike Hotel, which stood just to the north where BankNewport is now. They were originally called Thorndike Cottages 1, 2, and 3. Sometime after the turn of the century, Horgan renamed them after his daughters: Betty, Nina and Myra.
The three homes were never exactly alike and throughout the years further changes have been introduced. The most noticeable change is the 2012 addition to Betty, the southernmost cottage, which led someone to quip that “one of the sisters is now pregnant.”
When the modifications to Betty were being made, the stained glass over the pocket doors between the dining room and front parlor was removed. It is now on display as part of the “Resort Era” exhibit in the rear stairwell in Town Hall.
Despite their addresses, the houses are not entered from Conanicus Avenue. The entry to 17 Conanicus is Friendship Street. The single point of entry to 19 and 23 Conanicus is from Lincoln Street. The walkways to the houses will be clearly marked.
The houses were built in an era before accessibility was considered in architectural design, and they are not easily accessible to people with decreased mobility. Exterior stairs with eight steps lead to the porches of 19 and 23 Conanicus, and the upper floors in all three houses can be reached only by climbing the stairs.
Admission for the house tour is $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Advance tickets can be purchased through Sept. 19 with PayPal or credit card at the historical society’s website. The email sent in response to payment will serve as a ticket.
Credit cards, checks or cash will be accepted for same-day tickets at the Friendship Street entry to 17 Conanicus only. If paying with cash, exact change is appreciated. The tour is not appropriate for children under 12.