We are making diligent progress renovating the historic farmhouse in Sharpsburg. The original part of the home likely dates back to 1750s, with an addition likely in the early 1800s. Meticulous work guards the integrity of historic construction to avoid damaging anything made delicate by age.
Preserving History
A look at the new framework for one of two porches.
This home, while not in the historic district of Sharpsburg, is in the National Register of Historic Places. Naturally any historic designation carries additional responsibilities. For example, we needed approval from the county on things such as what type of bolts to use in bolting the new porch frame onto the original structure. Even more importantly, this family has a vision for their property. This is a home they cherish as a piece of their own heritage and history. We are here to bring their vision to fruition. Cultivating a meaningful partnership between our team and the homeowner is always important to a job well done. This is especially true when a project is rich with emotional investment. We hope the result will bring as much joy to this family as the process of achieving it does for us.
Honored to be recommended
View of this home’s gorgeous surrounding landscape from downhill on the driveway
The owner of this treasured home recommended us for other historic preservation work in Sharpsburg, which is a wonderful compliment and a privilege to be a part of . We are truly grateful. Paul is enjoying every moment of working on projects that prioritize the level of craftsmanship that is needed to honor history.
Historic jobs come with special treasures
Historic jobs come with special treasures. This property overlooking Antietam Creek was a large working farm in its earliest days, and may have even been used as a field hospital during the Civil War. In the 1950s and 60s a store was located at the start of the driveway along the road, but it was so dilapidated that it had to be torn down in recent years.
Vintage signage from the store was unearthed during excavation. It is exhilarating to discover connections between past and present. The Harmons recently enjoyed working together as a family team on the farmhouse site. It was a beautiful day to enjoy the outdoors. This homestead rich in heritage was an idyllic setting for sharing the tradition of the family business.
Please follow the Harmon Builders Facebook Page for more photos from the site.
By Melanie Smith-Bell
