Making a Federal Case

An excellent example of classic architecture.

By Brian Vanden Brink

The Nickels Sortwell house in Wiscassett, Maine, is an elegant example of Federal- or Adams-style architecture. Completed in 1812, the house has many of the details common to the genre. The front door features a fan light, while the second floor has a Palladian window and pilasters extending to the third floor. The sidelights on the Palladian window have delicate and beautiful tracery and the door between opens onto a shallow porch. Between the pilasters on the third floor is a graceful lunette window, which provides nice views of the village. The house makes a strong case for the Federal style and is worth a visit if you’re in the neighborhood.

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Making a Federal Case

An excellent example of classic architecture.

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