Description of Historic Place

The Isaac Newton House is a striking one-and-a-half storey twin Gothic Revival residence built in 1866. The house sits well off the western side of Route 776 in Grand Manan. Among the eye-catching details visible from the road are gabled roof with steeply-pitched twin dormers and the gingerbread trim. The grounds include a sloping front lawn and tall trees that line the driveway and are scattered throughout the property.

Heritage Value

The Isaac Newton House is designated a Local Historic Place for its striking architectural style and for its association with Grand Manan Island resident, Isaac Newton. This residence was occupied by the Newton family until the last remaining family member, Grace Newton, died in 1970. Much of Grand Manan’s social and economic progress is due to the achievements of Isaac Newton, an ambitious and industrious man. Some of his accomplishments include his being the first Federal Customs Officer for Grand Manan, being one of the first two representatives of the municipal legislature. He was also an extremely successful fisherman and owner of a lucrative general store. His commercial endeavours included being instrumental in creating the Dark Harbour Telephone Company and being an integral part of forming and then managing the Grand Manan Steamship Company, which provided the first regular, year round ferry service to the island.

The Isaac Newton House is a good example of twin Gothic Revival residential architecture from the mid-19th century. It has maintained much of its exterior integrity and several interior elements as well. The Gothic Revival style is apparent in such details as the steeply-pitched gable roof, the twin Gothic dormers, and other traditional decorative details.

Source: Grand Manan Archives - Local Historic Places files

Character-Defining Elements

The character-defining elements that describe the Isaac Newton House include:
- rectangular one-and-a-half storey massing;
- finials and drop pendants at gable peaks;
- symmetrical façade facing the road enhanced by twin cross-gables;
- label moulding over multi-paned windows;
- sawdust-insulated milk room located at back of house;
- elaborate wooden gingerbread trim.

The character-defining elements relating to the interior include:
- original hardwood floors;
- original doors and knobs;
- plaster walls;
- shallow coal burning fireplace;
- original woodwork;
- dry sink;
- original picture frames.