News that Patrican had been granted a permit to tear down the house has created a local firestorm, not unlike controversies in Beverly and Salem, where preservationists also have rallied against plans to demolish historic properties.
Though the property owners’ patience may give those on the side of preservation cause for optimism, all three buildings could still be lost.
The three situations also produce a conflict of two New England passions: property rights and safeguarding history.
John O’Connell, a member of the Newbury Planning Board, said there is no ambiguity about Patrican’s rights.
“He obtained the proper permit, and everybody recognizes that this man has the right to do with that as he sees fit,’’ said O’Connell, who is a descendant of the Tappan family. While town officials would like the building saved “right there or on another appropriate site if something can be done, it can’t be done if Brian’s property rights are invaded. There is no doubt he has the right to do that.’’
Patrican also has proposed to redraw the lot line between the two parcels, making the High Road property larger. That plan has been opposed by Historic New England, a nonprofit organization that manages historic properties, including the circa 1690 Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm that also abuts the 1 Little’s Lane property.
Joanie Purinton of Newbury, a preservationist and real estate agent specializing in antique properties, said the Tappan House would be a great loss.
“This is an important Federalist [home] with a legacy of the first settlers in Newbury, and it should not be destroyed,’’ she said. “It would be destructive to our history.’’
