~ The Theophilus Crawford House ~

Completed in 1808 the Theophilus Crawford House, as it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was the Crawford family home for more than a century.  Originally a sheep farm of about 217 acres, the property has changed considerably.   This was the home of Theophilus and Annis Crawford where they raised their family of ten children while adding to their real estate holdings.  Not only was Theophilus a “gentleman farmer” but he held many public offices at both local and state levels.  He was very successful in all aspects of his life; at the time of his death in 1856, at the ripe old age of 92, Theophilus owned more than 500 acres in the Putney area, as well property in Iowa.

Since the last of the Crawford family lived here, the house has gone through significant changes.  The carriage house which was added several years after the main house was completed, has evolved into living space and now provides comfortable guest accommodations.

During the early part of the twentieth century the house acquired front and side porches, which dramatically changed its appearance giving it more the look of an English country manor house.  The porches were later removed to return the home to its original Federal style.

In the 1960’s the property was owned by Windham College and was the residence of the college president.  The rear section of the house was used as a dorm for students.

Over the years the home was known locally by many names, it is now known by all as Hickory Ridge House.  In the 1980’s Hickory Ridge House opened its doors to the public as a Bed and Breakfast Inn.  The inn was only able to accommodate a few guests in its early days, but now boasts eight spacious guest rooms.