494 Commercial St

Historic District Survey information for 494 Commercial St

Architectural Description: 494 Commercial St. is a 2-1/2-story, 3-bay, former school building converted to a mixed-use commercial/residential building; gable-front roof is sheathed in asphalt shingles; partial cornice returns; exterior is clad in vinyl siding; corner pilasters; building sits on a brick foundation; fenestration includes single and paired 2/2 DHS with storms; operable louvered shutters; square stepped bell tower with pyramidal roof; primary entrance is accessed by paired doors with corner board detail and interesting top that are sheltered by a hipped hood supported by exaggerated brackets; poured concrete steps; side addition has a modern entry door; right side facade is accessed by central paired doors with multi-light transom and pilasters, wood steps and ramp to door, metal bulkhead.

Historical Narrative: As per Mary Avellar (1976): "This is the only early elementary school building left standing, and is in relatively the same condition as when built. It has been occupied most recently by the American Legion Morris Light Post No. 77, and its upper floors have, for some years, been the summer school of Leo Manso and Victor Candell, both painters (The Provincetown Workshop established in 1957). Schools were built in six districts in 1828. Three new elementary schools were erected in 1844. This was probably one of them. As per Tom Boland (1994): The Eastern School was one of three built in 1844 to replace various one-room schools around town. Housed grades 1 to 6 until 1931 when school was closed due to depression and reduced attendance. Later occupants - Community Center; Manso & Candell Art School; Long Point Art Gallery; American Legion Hall." Currently "Silas Kenyon Gallery" and "The Driskel Gallery" (2003).

Bibliography and/or References: Jennings, Herman A. Provincetown. Provincetown, 1890. Ruckstuhl, Irma. Old Provincetown in Early Photographs. Toronto, 1987. Report of Town Officers. 1871. Provincetown. Hatch, MCM, The Log of Provincetown, Truro, P. 40.

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

 (Mass. Historical Commission Form B)