Formal Recognition Type

Registered Heritage Structure

Heritage Value

The Porter House was designated a Registered Heritage Structure by the Heritage Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador in 1999 because of its architectural and social values.

The Porter House is a good example of the type of house built by fisherman in the early 1900s. The timber framed structure is rather simple in both design and decoration, reflecting the vernacular architecture of outport Newfoundland. Early on in the history of this house the roof had been cut down slightly, and modified from a gable to a gambrel, a modification made by many in Newfoundland following the introduction of improved roofing material. The layout of the house is a central hall plan with a small porch at the back.

For the people of Hibb’s Cove, the Porter House is symbolic of a time when the fishery was vital to the survival of the community. Set atop a steep hill overlooking the cove, this house is rare example of how the community looked in the early 1900s. Besides being a fishing residence, the Porter House has, in the recent past, been the home of an art studio belonging to George Noseworthy. Its presence has brought many noted artists, both regionally and nationally, to the community.

Source: Heritage Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador property file “Port De Grave – Porter House – FPT 1571”

Character Defining Elements

All original features which relate to the age and vernacular design of the house including:
-number of storeys;
-modified gambrel roof;
-chimney number, style and placement;
-narrow wooden clapboard;
-wooden corner boards;
-symmetrical façade;
-simplicity of decoration/exterior detailing;
-size, style, trim and placement of wooden windows;
-size, style, trim and placement of wooden storm windows;
-size, style, trim and placement of exterior wooden doors;
-size, style and location of porch on rear facade;
-stone wall foundation;
-interior layout;
-all interior features that reflect the age and usage of the building;
-dimension, location and orientation of building.

Community

Hibb's Cove

Municipality

Not specified (Newfoundland)

Civic Address

Hibb's Cove

Construction (circa)

1904 - 1904

Style

Rectangular Long Façade