A Grand Home (3:03)

John Turner is played by Michael Barry

The seaside mansion known as The House of the Seven Gables was built in 1668 for Captain John Turner I, the head of one of the most successful maritime families in the New England colonies. The industriousness of Turner and his descendants in the fishing, trading, and mercantile businesses came to define the economy of Puritan New England and began New England’s maritime tradition.

The original part of the home featured a two-over-two floor plan around a large, central chimney. This was typical first period dwellings. His success in business allowed him to construct two additions before his death in 1680, including the great ell that featured grand proportions, high ceilings, and enormous windows.

John Turner II modernized the décor of the home in the Georgian style. Wood paneling was added to the walls of the Parlor, Great Chamber, and Dining Room Chamber. Many of the 17th century beams were cased in wood. All of the work was painted in the most modern of palettes. Today, these enhancements are considered some of the finest examples of the high-style Georgian paneling. From 7gables.org