243-249 Commercial St

Historic District Survey information for 243-249 Commercial St

Architectural Description: HISTORIC RECREATION 3-story, 5-bay; gable dormers; open porches on 1st and 2nd stories; 2/2 DHS windows; addition on rear and additional porch and balcony on side facade.

Historical Narrative: As per Tom Boland (1994) The former use of this site is listed as a saloon in 1858. The current building, constructed by Timothy P. Johnson was originally used as a hall for entertainment. It also boasted a bowling alley and saloon under the management of William Crowell. In 1868, it was purchased by Allen Reed who managed it until his death in 1881 and did extensive alterations including adding the mansard roof and a billiard hall causing it to be the largest hotel in Provincetown. His son, James A. Reed continued as manager and also ran a business as a Customs Officer from the property. As of 1890, the hotel accommodated 75 guests and had a rear veranda for swimming in the harbor. Historic prints of the late 19th century indicate that the building was not expanded until after the turn of the century. As per Tom Boland (1994): The former use of this site is listed as a saloon in 1858. The current building, constructed by Timothy P. Johnson was originally used as a hall for entertainment. It also boasted a bowling alley and saloon under the management of William Crowell. In 1868, it was purchased by Allen Reed who managed it until his death in 1881 and did extensive alterations including adding the mansard roof and a billiard hall causing it to be the largest hotel in Provincetown. His son, James A. Reed continued as manager and also ran a business as a Customs Officer from the property. As of 1890, the hotel accommodated 75 guests and had a rear veranda for swimming in the harbor. Historic prints of the late 19th century indicate that the building was not expanded until after the turn of the century.

Bibliography and/or References: Barnstable County Atlas. Atlas, 1880. Barnstable County Atlas. Atlas, 1907. Cape Cod Directory, 1901. The Extremity of Cape Cod. Map, 1836. H.F. Wallings Co. Map of Provincetown Village. Atlas, 1858. Jennings, Herman A. Chequocket or Provincetown. 1893. Jennings, Herman A. Provincetown. or Odds and Ends from the Tip End. 1890. Resident Directory. W.F. Richardson & Co., 1886. Resident Directory. W.H. Hopkins, 1889.

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Commercial Street (Provincetown, Mass.), Dwellings, and Historic Districts--Massachusetts--Provincetown

 (Mass. Historical Commission Form B)