SM-52 Buena Vista - Maryland Historical Trust · SM-52 Buena Vista Architectural Survey File ... (~-See continuation sheet for additional comments.) ... full width, one story, pedimented

SM-52

Buena Vista

Architectural Survey File

This is the architectural survey file for this MIHP record. The survey file is organized reverse-

chronological (that is, with the latest material on top). It contains all MIHP inventory forms, National

Register nomination forms, determinations of eligibility (DOE) forms, and accompanying documentation

such as photographs and maps.

Users should be aware that additional undigitized material about this property may be found in on-site

architectural reports, copies of HABS/HAER or other documentation, drawings, and the “vertical files” at

the MHT Library in Crownsville. The vertical files may include newspaper clippings, field notes, draft

versions of forms and architectural reports, photographs, maps, and drawings. Researchers who need a

thorough understanding of this property should plan to visit the MHT Library as part of their research

project; look at the MHT web site (mht.maryland.gov) for details about how to make an appointment.

All material is property of the Maryland Historical Trust.

Last Updated: 01-06-2004

NFS Form 10-900 . ~~ev. 1 0 - 9 0)

Lted States Department of the Interior ~ational Park Service

NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES REGISTRATION FORM

OMB No. 1024-0018

This form is for use in nominating or requesting determinations for individual properties and districts. See instructions in How to Complete the National Register of Historic Places Registration Form (National Register Bulletin 16A). Complete each item by marking "x" in the appropriate box or by entering the information requested. If any item does not apply to the property being documented, enter "N/A" for "not applicable." For functions, architectural classification, materials, and areas of significance, enter only categories and subcategories from the instructions. Place additional entries and narrative items on continuation sheets (NFS Form 10-900a). Use a typewriter, word processor, or computer to complete all items.

=========================================================================== 1. Name of Property

historic name Buena Vista

other names/site number SM-52

.2-. Location

street.:.--: - Maryland Route 5 not for publication n/a city or town Leonardtown vicinity .....nL.E. state Maryland code MD county St. Mary's code 037 zip code 21756 =======================================================~===================

3. State/Federal Agency Certification =========================================================================== As the designated authority under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1986, as amended, I hereby certify that this ~x~ nomination ~~ request for determination of eligibility meets the documentation standards for registering properties in the National Register of Historic Places and meets the procedural and professional requirements set forth in 36 CFR Part 60. In my opinion, the property ~x~ meets ~~ does not meet the National Register Criteria. I recommend that this property be considered significant nationally statewide __.1L. locally. ( ~- See continuation sheet for additional comments.)

Date

In my opinion, the property ~~ meets ~~ does not meet the National Register criteria. (~-See continuation sheet for additional comments.)

,ignature of commenting or other official Date

State or Federal agency and bureau

USDI/NPS NRHP Registra., .Jn Form Buena Vista

~t. Mary's County, MD

4. National Park Service Certification

I, hereby certify that this property is:

entered in the National Register ~- See continuation sheet.

determined eligible for the National Register ~- See continuation sheet.

determined not eligible for the National Register

removed from the National Register

other (explain):

l 5i'1-5 2._ ·. ,

Page 2

Signature of Keeper Date of Action

========================================================================= ~. Classification ========================================================================== Ownership of Property (Check as many boxes as apply)

...1L. private public-local public-State public-Federal

Category of Property (Check only one box) ...1L. building(s)

district site structure object

Number of Resources within Property

Contributing 2 1

3

Noncontributing buildings (main house, meat house) sites (former kitchen/quarter location)

1 structures (storage shed) objects

1 Total

Number of contributing resources previously listed in National Register ......Q. Name of related multiple property listing ~~n~a~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

USDI/NPS NRHP Registration Form Buena Vista

SN-52-

St. Mary's County, MD Page 3

=========================================================================== 6. Function or Use =========================================================================== Historic-Functions (Enter categories from instructions)

Cat: DOMESTIC Sub: single dwelling DOMESTIC secondary structure

Current Functions (Enter categories from instructions) Cat: DOMESTIC Sub: single dwelling

DOMESTIC secondary structure

=========================================================================== 7. Description =========================================================================== Architectural Classification (Enter categories from instructions)

EARLY REPUBLIC/Federal MID-19TH CENTURY/Greek Revival

Materials (Enter categories from instructions) foundation -==B=R=I~C=K--~~~~~~~~~~~~~ roof METAL walls ---"'W~O~O=D'--~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ other -'-'W~O~O=D'--~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Narrative Description (Describe the historic and current condition of the property on one or more continuation sheets.)

-

USDI/NPS NRHP Registration Form Buena Vista St. Mary's County, MD

I 11 I' I • t

Page 4

=========================================================================== 8. Statement of Significance =========================================================================== Applicable National Register Criteria (Mark "x" in one or more boxes for the criteria qualifying the property for National Register listing)

A

_x_ B

_x_ C

Property is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history. Property is associated with the lives of persons significant in our past. Property embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction or represents the work of a master, or possesses high artistic values, or represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components lack individual distinction.

D Property has yielded, or is likely to yield information important in prehistory or history.

Criteria Considerations (Mark "X" in all the boxes that apply.)

A owned by a religious institution or used for religious purposes. B removed from its original location. C a birthplace or a grave. D a cemetery. E a reconstructed building, object, or structure. F a commemorative property. G less than 50 years of age or achieved significance within the

past 50 years.

Areas of Significance (Enter categories from instructions) ARCHITECTURE

Period of Significance _....c ...... _1~8~4---.0=s_-~1~8~8~8~------------

Si gni f i cant Dates --"c._.._1"""'8"'""4=--0=s __________________ _

Significant Person (Complete if Criterion B is marked above) George Combs Vincent Camalier

Cultural Affiliation n a

-11rchitect/Builder Vincent Camalier

Narrative Statement of Significance (Explain the significance of the property on one or more continuation sheets.)

USDI/NPS NRHP Registration Form Buena Vista St. Mary's County, MD

SM-5a._

Page 5

=========================================================================== 9. Major Bibliographical References =========================================================================== (Cite the books, articles, and other sources used in preparing this form on one or more continuation sheets.)

Previous documentation on file (NPS) preliminary determination of individual listing (36 CFR 67) has been

requested. previously listed in the National Register previously determined eligible by the National Register designated a National Historic Landmark recorded by Historic American Buildings Survey # recorded by Historic American Engineering Record #

Primary Location of Additional Data -1:L State Historic Preservation Off ice

Other State agency Federal agency Local government University Other

Name of repository:

=========================================================================== 10. Geographical Data =========================================================================== Acreage of Property ~~1~·~6~1.;,_=a~c=r~e~s'--~~~~~~~~~~~ USGS quadrangle Leonardtown. MD UTM References (Place additional UTM references on a continuation sheet)

Zone Easting Northing Zone Easting Northing A 1..§. 356890 4239910 D B E c

See continuation sheet.

Verbal- Boundary Description: The nominated property is indicated as Parcel 97 on St. Mary's County Assessment and Taxation Map 127, Grid 9.

Boundary Justification: The nominated property, 1.61 acres, comprises the .-remnant of the acreage historically associated with the resource, and

epresents its historic landscape setting.

USDI/NPS NRHP Registration Form Buena Vista St. Mary's County, MD Page 6

=========================================================================== 11. Form Prepared By =========================================================================== name/title Kirk Ranzetta organization St. Mary's County Planning street & number city or town Leonardtown

Department date February 1998 telephone (301) 475-4662

state MD zip code =========================================================================== Additional Documentation =========================================================================== Submit the following items with the completed form:

Continuation Sheets Maps

A USGS map (7.5 or 15 minute series) indicating the property's location. A sketch map for historic districts and properties having large acreage or numerous resources.

Photographs Representative black and white photographs of the property.

--iditional items (Check with the SHPO or FPO for any additional items)

=========================================================================== Property Owner =========================================================================== (Complete this item at the request of the SHPO or FPO.) name

street & number telephone

city or town state zip code

=========================================================================== Paperwork Reduction Act Statement: This information is being collected for applications to the National Register of Historic Places to nominate properties for listing or determine eligibility for listing, to list properties, and to amend existing listings. Response to this request is required to obtain a benefit in accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 470 et seq.). Estimated Burden Statement: Public reporting burden for this form is estimated to average 18.1 hours per response including the time for reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining data, and completing and reviewing the form. Direct comments regarding this burden estimate or any aspect of this form to the Chief, Administrative Services Division, National Park Service, P.O. Box 37127, Washington, DC 20013-7127; and the Office of

.-...anagement and Budget, Paperwork Reductions Project (1024-0018), Washington, DC 20503.

NPS Form 10-900-a (8-86)

United States Department of the Interior tional Park Service

NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES CONTINUATION SHEET

Section 7 Page _7_

OMB No. 1024-0018

SM-52 Buena Vista St. Mary's Co., MD

==========================================================================;

Description Summary:

Constructed in the 1840s, the main block of Buena Vista is a two-anda-half story, three-bay, side passage, double-parlor plan, frame dwelling with Greek Revival-style architectural elements located in Leonardtown, Maryland. The most prominent, character defining exterior feature is a full width, one story, pedimented portico located on the south elevation. The portico has four, square, Tuscan columns that exhibit a distinctive entasis. The interior is decorated with window and door architraves, mantels embellished by free-standing, rounded Tuscan columns and a banded ...c::~ieze, molded plaster ceiling medallions, and a stair with a panelled box, .. dvy scroll sawn brackets, rounded balusters, and a slender newel. Judging from architectural evidence, a two story, three bay, frame, service ell was attached to the main block sometime after the 1840s. Evidence suggests that the ell may predate the main block and was moved from another site to its present location. The interior of the service ell is noticeably less decorated. Smaller door architraves, a plain mantel, and a modest winder stair all signal the ell's secondary importance. The property also contains a braced-frame meat house whose walls are sheathed with random width flush board siding. Outlines of a brick fireplace for a detached kitchen/quarter can also be seen near the meat house in the rear yard of the main dwelling.

NPS Form 10-900-a (8-86)



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General Description

Buena Vista is located on the north side of Maryland Route 5, 0.2 miles west from the intersection of Route 5 and Washington Avenue in Leonardtown, Maryland. Set back approximately 50 yards from the road, the house is approached via a formal ellipse-shaped drive. The dwelling is situated on a relatively level lot consisting of 1 .61 acres. While the parcel is bordered by a hospital to the west and north, a supermarket to the east, and busy, four lane road to the south, the site is adequately buffered and sheltered on all four sides by significantly sized holly, ~alnut, oak, dogwood, and cedar trees as well as a variety of well trimmed

_nrubs and bushes. The property also contains a braced frame meathouse and a non-contributing storage shed which are both located to the north of the dwelling.

Constructed ca. 1830-1840, Buena Vista is a two-and-a-half story, three bay, Greek Revival-style frame dwelling with a two story, three bay, frame side-ell. Both sections rest on a brick foundation and are sheathed with clapboard that is attached to the braced-frame with fully formed cut nails. All windows (except one) of both sections are six-over-six, doublehung sash windows. The roof of the main block, covered with raised seam metal, is pierced by two, interior-end brick chimneys. In contrast, the ell has an exterior end brick chimney. The main block of the dwelling is organized in a side-passage, double parlor plan while the ell consists of a stair passage (which also now contains a c. 1958 storage closet and bathroom) and one large room for a kitchen.

The south or primary elevation consists of the three bay main block and three bay side ell with each window and door symmetrically aligned with the bay above it. The main block's first floor is pierced by two, sixover-six, double-hung sash windows and a wide, five-panel door (two

,_vertical panels on the bottom and three horizontal panels above) with a hree light transom. Each window features two functional louvered

shutters. The first floor bays are shaded by a Tuscan order pedimented portico supported by four entasized square columns. The pediment features a flush board tympanum as well as a three step, rectilinear cornice and

NFS Form 10-900-a (8-86)

United States Department of the Interior - tional Park Service


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OMB No. 1024-0018


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crown molding. These architectural details resemble those found on the Brome-Howard House (SM-33) as well as on White Hall (SM-54) which has been demolished. The second floor of this section features three windows. Two gable dormers with engaged pilasters and corner blocks project from the roof. The side ell also consists of four bays on the first floor and five on the second. The first floor bays consist of two six-over-six windows, a five panel door, and a c. 1958 one-over-one window. These bays are shaded by a shed roof porch supported by four square columns with chamfered corners. The second floor openings consist of three small windows.

The east elevation consists of the gable end of the ell and main ~ock. The main block is pierced by two windows--one near the south corner

of the second floor and one centrally located on the attic story. Cornice returns are located on both sides of the main block's gable end. The ell, meanwhile, has one window on the first floor and two windows on the second floor. An exterior end, five-to-one common bond brick chimney extends between the two windows on the second floor and steps back from the gable end wall as it rises.

The north elevation resembles the south elevation in that it features the same number of sash and doors on all floors. This elevation, however, does not exhibit the same degree of decoration. The main block is pierced on the first and second floors by three bays--two windows and a door on the first floor and three windows on the second floor, and two gable dormers on the attic story. Only the door on the main block is sheltered by a markedly less ornate portico over the passage entry. This portico is supported by two square columns with chamfered corners and entasis. The plain pediment features an open bed tympanum composed of flush boards. Immediately, below a first floor window on the this elevation is a bulkhead entry into a partially excavated dirt cellar. The side ell consists of three first and second floor bays--two windows and a door on the first

_floor and three smaller windows on the second floor. The door on the first loor is sheltered by a c. 1958, screened-in porch. Notably, the window on

the second floor closest to the main block has a broad lintel above its header. The other windows on the second floor do not feature similar treatments.

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The west elevation features three windows on the first and second floor and a single centrally placed window on the attic floor. The first floor window located near the northwest corner is a false bay. This window bay is situated where the interior stair is located. While the sash exists on the exterior, the window does not light the interior and is always covered over by louvered shutters.

Buena Vista's interior reflects a deliberate ornamental hierarchy. The side-passage, double-parlor main block is ornately decorated, while the

-"'"able end ell features much less decorative attention. The passage of the ain block, for instance, provides entry into all spaces of the main

block's interior through two doors and an elaborately decorated stair. Each of the door and window surrounds feature wide, curvilinear moldings with corner blocks (also called paterae). The windows also feature panelled bases. The open string stair features a classically shaped newel, a panelled base, and wavy shaped scroll sawn brackets. The scrollwork changes to a 11 6 11 shape at the stair's return. The passage also features a circular shaped plaster ceiling molding that resembles the door and window surrounds. Similar medallions, recently replaced, are found in each of the parlors. In order to compensate for the intruding interior end chimneys, the ceiling moldings are not located in the formal center of the rooms, but are instead offset. The pair of swinging five-panel doors that connect the two parlors are also offset. Both parlors feature classically inspired mantels that consist of Doric columns, a horizontally banded frieze, and a thin attenuated mantel shelf. Just below the shelf are a series of stepped torus moldings that gradually project further out as they rise. The main block's second floor contains two bedrooms and a stair passage. Two of the rooms feature fireplace mantels that are modestly decorated with plainly molded pilasters, panelled friezes, and an attenuated shelf--similar to those found in the first floor parlors of "Loretum" (SM-78) which was built ~n 1844. The door and window moldings here are plainer as well for they

onsist of two sunk fillets and a bead. A bathroom and box stair to the attic story is also located in the passage. The attic story consists of two bedrooms. These spaces are distinguished by their lack of decoration. Several wooden pegs for hanging clothes are still visible on the walls.

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The side ell can be entered through the door in the north parlor of the main block, a door in the second floor bedroom, or through one of two exterior doors that permit entry into the ell's passage. Upon entering the ell, a different decorative scheme is immediately noticed. The moldings and corner blocks around all doors and windows are smaller and less elaborate. The window and door architraves consist of two sunken fillets.

The mantelpiece located in the first floor kitchen features a plain frieze, pilasters, and shelf. Just below the shelf, however, are two sets of stepped torus moldings that gradually project further out as they rise. -~he winder stair, located in the passage, features plain, square banisters ~id a newel (similar to those found in Eldon, SM-338, and Summerseat, SM-

181). The second floor of the side ell consists of a bedroom and passage. The bedroom features a plain mantelpiece that lacks panelling and

decoration. Notably, the ell appears to have been constructed before or simultaneous to the main block, but added to the building at a later time. Evidence located at the intersection of the two sections, reveals that the

gable end of the main block was originally covered with clapboard. The clapboard was subsequently taken off when the ell was added leaving behind scars visible on the studs of the main block. The ell's earlier date is suggested by the skinned, hewn, and pit-sawn rafter pairs with pegged bridle joints at their peak. The owner, Francis Burch, further noted the ell could have predated the main block and was probably moved to the site after the main block was built. Another indication of this change is revealed in the doorway that joins the two sections together on the first floor. A now enclosed transom on top of this door subsequently has been closed over. There are several considerations, however, that may contradict this contention. An analysis of the shared wall between the main block and ell reveals that it is only six inches thick--the width of the exterior walls of the main block. If the ell was moved to the site and attached, the two walls of the individual structures would together create ~ twelve inch wall.

Immediately to the north of the dwelling is a braced frame meat house. The structure rests on a low brick foundation and is clad in flush,

horizontal, chestnut boards. At the intersection of the exterior walls and

-- --- - --------- ---------- -"""'!""'--------

NPS Form 10-900-a (8-86)

'UPited States Department of the Interior tional Park Service


Section 7 Page 12

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corrugated metal covered roof is a box cornice. The exterior is pierced on the south elevation by a single door attached to the frame with modern strap hinges. The interior exhibits an exposed frame covered with black soot--evidence of its use as a smokehouse and curing shed for hams. The braced frame consists of down braces that are side-mortised and tenoned to the corner posts and the sill. It also features several ties that extend across the top of the smokehouse. These ties were used to hang hams from. Francis Burch confirmed that the building served as a meat house.

Just to the southwest of the meat house was a well (now filled in) and roughly square raised pad that marks the probable location of a detached

~itchen/quarter--apparently abandoned and/or demolished soon after the addition of the present ell. This feature is situated to the southwest of the meat house and just north of the main block. During one dry summer in 1992, Francis Burch measured the outlines of the kitchen/quarter. The frame building was approximately sixteen feet by 23 feet and probably had a brick chimney.

NPS Form 10-900-a (8-86)



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First Floor Plan

- ' -I

~41

-4 A._ -/ ,_

t-.:=o;__ ____ _JJ_ ____ =o"----~o=-i

--------.

a a

$•PERIOD I

a

- •PERIOD 2

BUENA VISTA LEONARDTOWN, Md

SM-52 FIRST FLOOR PLAN

---------------28~3"-------I

T 18'·2"

1

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============~~~~~~~~;=================Q)~°M.AiN=Hous[=======================

SM-52 @- MEAT HOUSE

Site Plan LEONARDTOWN, Md. @-SITE OF OUT-KITCHEN/QUARTERS

SITE PLAN @)- STORAGE SHED

0

0

NPS Form 10-900-a (8-86)

UPited States Department of the Interior tional Park Service


Section 8 Page 1 5

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Significance Summary

"Buena Vista" is significant under National Register Criteria B and C because of its association with George Combs and Vincent Camalier, as well as its architectural merit as an excellent example of the Greek Revivalstyle in Southern Maryland. Commissioned in the 1840s by George and Mary Catherine Coad Combs, the two-and-a-half story, side-passage dwelling was constructed by Vincent Camalier, an architect/master carpenter who came to St. Mary's County in the early 1830s from Washington, D.C. Camalier, especially known for his use of colonnaded porticos and piazzas on other -·1ildings in the area, emphasized the exterior of Buena Vista by using a 0ne story, pedimented portico supported by four squarish, Tuscan columns. The interior was decorated with window and door architraves, mantels embellished by free-standing, rounded Tuscan columns and a banded frieze, and a stair with a panelled box, wavy scroll sawn brackets, rounded balusters, and a slender newel. Sometime after its initial construction, a pre-1840s, two story service ell was attached to its east gable end. The dwelling's stylish architectural treatments and organization were extensions of George Combs' prestige and success as a dedicated government servant and wheat farmer. Beginning in the 1830s, Combs worked in the office of Joseph Harris, Clerk of the Circuit Court. Combs went on to serve on the St. Mary's County Levy Court in 1834 and 1835 and was eventually appointed by Maryland Governor James Thomas to be Register of Wills from 1835-1857. Upon his death on June 19, 1888, a obituary in the St. Mary's Beacon described him as a "strict Catholic and a model man. To know him was to respect and admire him." The period of significance, c. 1840s-1888, corresponds to the period of Combs' occupation of the property.

NPS Form 10-900-a (8-86)

Q.nited States Department of the Interior tional Park Service


Section 8 Page 16

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HISTORIC CONTEXT

MARYLAND COMPREHENSIVE HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN DATA

Geographic Organization: Western Shore

Chronological/Developmental Period(s): Agricultural/Industrial Transition: A.D. 1815-1870 Industrial-Urban Dominance: A.D. 1870-1930

Historic Period Theme(s): Architecture/Landscape Architecture/Community Planning Agriculture

Resource Type: Category: Building(s) Historic Environment: Rural Historic Function(s) and Use(s):

DOMESTIC/single dwelling DOMESTIC/secondary structure

Known Design Source: Vincent Camalier, architect/builder

NFS Form 10-900-a (8-86)

J,1.Pited States Department of the Interior tional Park Service


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RESOURCE HISTORY AND HISTORIC CONTEXT

By the 1830s, the town of Leonardtown in St. Mary's County was quickly becoming a social, economic, and governmental center that had failed to develop in St. Mary's County since the removal of Maryland's first state capital at St. Mary's City to Annapolis in 1694-1695. With the construction of a new courthouse building by noted Baltimore architect William Small in 1831-1832, the town ushered in an era of economic, as well as architectural, improvement. This improvement was echoed by a series of new dwellings that were erected by lawyers, judges, clerks, and merchants

l and around town. "Buena Vista" represented one such house.

On November 8, 1831, William J. and Ellen Edelin purchased a 96 acre tract called "part of America Felix Secundus" from Henry Greenfield Sothoron Key and his wife Henrietta (owners of significant land holdings in

1 . and around Leonardtown) for $1,440. Located on the road from Chaptico to Leonardtown, the relatively flat property surrounded a two-acre lot reserved for a Methodist Meeting House called Wesley Chapel. Only one-half mile from the center of town, the tract was an ideal location for an employee of the court or owner of one of the community's many mercantile businesses. It remains unclear whether the Edelin family improved the property but in August 9, 1837, George Combs purchased the tract for $2,000 and soon after erected a large two-and-a-half story, side-passage plan, Greek Revival-style dwelling calling it "Buena Vista." 2

The Combs Family at Buena Vista: 1837-1891 Born on June 19, 1799, George Combs came from a background of public

service. 3 His father Enoch Combs, for instance, served as the county sheriff as well as a trustee of the poor in the early-nineteenth century. 4

Unfortunately, much of George Combs' life as a youth remains obscure due to a lack of family papers. Marriage records reveal that he married Mary

-c'atherine Coad on January 27, 1829 and census records reveal that the pair .ad three children; Elizabeth, Ann (Nanna}, and Charlotte. 5 By the 1830s,

however, George Combs had obviously distinguished himself in a variety of capacities. Prior to 1834, Combs worked in the office of Colonel Joseph Harris, Clerk of the Circuit Court. 6 Between 1834 and 1835 Combs was

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appointed to the seven member St. Mary's County Levy Court--a local legislative body.

7 He would only serve two years in this post, for by 1835

he was appointed by Governor James Thomas to be the St. Mary's County Register of Wills.

It was soon after his appointment, in 1837, that he and his wife Mary Catherine Coad purchased the 97 acre tract and erected Buena Vista. According to oral tradition and architectural evidence, the Combs family most likely constructed the main block of the dwelling, as well as a detached kitchen and meathouse in the 1840s by contracting with the noted local architect/master carpenter Vincent Camalier. 8 Decorated in the then ~ashionable Greek-Revival style, the house rose prominently in the largely _ural agricultural landscape unmistakably signalling the couple's new status and confirming their connection to the local elite.

From 1835 until 1857, Combs distinguished himself as the County's Register of Wills. Described as "painstaking and exact, careful to do his duty in every particular ... a model man" Combs was well liked in the community and played a critical role in developing a number of key institutions. 9 In 1845-1846, Combs served on the building committee that chose Vincent Camalier to erect a new St. Aloysius Church in Leonardtown.

10

In 1852, he was a founding member of the St. Mary's County Reading Room and Debating Society, a group dedicated to the intellectual advancement of its wealthy, educated, and locally prominent members.

11 He also served as

a director for the State of Maryland Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Baltimore in 1873. 12 While maintaining these diverse interests, Combs was also a prolific and highly successful wheat farmer.

In her dissertation Economics and Society in a Staple Plantation Svstem: St. Mary's County, Maryland 1790-1840, Bayly Ellen Marks noted that towards the early to mid-nineteenth century, the staple crop of St. Mary's County had made a significant shift from tobacco towards wheat production. 13 George Combs illustrated how successful an intensive yet diverse agricultural operation based upon wheat, oat, and corn production

_could be. From 1850-1860, for instance, the total cash value of the farm urrounding Buena Vista increased from $5,000 to $12,000. 14 Total improved

acres increased as well going from 72 acres in 1850 to 97 acres in 1860. While modest gains were made in winter wheat production and Indian corn remained constant, oat production ballooned from 10 lbs in 1850 to 200 lbs

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in 1860. The Combs' also produced a crop of peas, Irish potatoes, and sweet potatoes, increased butter production, and raised more domestic farm animals especially sheep, swine, and "other cattle" in 1860. While yields and farm value decreased in 1870 and again in 1880, due to the Civil War and the abolition of slavery, Combs was undoubtedly an active participant in the operation of his farm--diversifying his interests and intensifying his land use on a relatively small farm that never contained more than 100 improved acres. The value of his farm, despite its lack of improved acreage, still placed Combs in the top 10% of landowners. In contrast, the owner of Cross Manor (SM-3) Caleb Jones, owned 230 acres of improved -sreage that contained significant amounts of tobacco, Indian corn, as well

__ a wheat. The value of the farm, however, could only muster a value of $10,000 from the census takers. 15

Undoubtedly related to the Combs family success at farming was their ownership of slaves. Census schedules for slaves from 1850 note that Combs owned nine slaves, in 1860 only three slaves were listed, but in 1864 he was listed as owning eighteen slaves. 16 Even after the Civil War, Combs was able to retain the services of at least eight African-American servants and farm laborers in 1870 and six in 1880. The houses of the slaves and servants on the Combs' farm can only be speculated. As originally built, Buena Vista featured a separate kitchen building that was located just east and north of the main house near a meat house. It was probably here that most of the house servants worked and slept. Field hands, however, were probably housed in separate structures closer to the fields and away from the house. Sometime between 1840-1860, a two story wing was attached, thereby integrating domestic service into the main house. This addition could have also accommodated house servants in the upstairs bedrooms. The addition's limited decoration, namely its window and door surrounds that consisted of two fillets and unadorned corner blocks, signalled its secondary importance when compared to the elaborate mantels and stair case, as well as the curvi-linear door and window surrounds of the main house.

While the spatial realities of slave and servant life at Buena Vista remain difficult to recreate, some general facts about the individual slaves that lived there are revealed through a close examination of the census records. The slave statistics taken in 1864 reveal that eighteen

NFS Form 10-900-a (8-86)

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slaves with the surnames of Craton, Tarleton, Thompson, Taney, Smith, Butler, Barnes, and Gunn were owned by the Combs family. The 1870 census reveals that all but one, 50 year old Philis Cray (aka Craton), had left, probably migrating north or resettling somewhere else in the county. In the aftermath of the Civil War, servants could certainly opt for a different employer. Forty-year-old Statia Parr, for instance, was employed as a servant by George Combs in 1870, but in 1880 the fifty year old was working in the household of prominent Leonardtown lawyer Robert C. Combs, the owner of Eldon (SM-338). Despite the uncertainty created by the abolition of slavery and the subsequent increase in labor costs, Combs was -~rgely able to maintain his agricultural interests and his status in the ...:ommunity.

The day-to-day life of the Combs family is similarly obscure and can only be seen through occasional newspaper references, census records, as well as marriage and death records. Married on January 27, 1829, George and his wife Mary Catherine Coad Combs had three daughters. Their first daughter Elizabeth Combs was born c. 1830. Sometime between 1850 and 1854, however, she "embraced a religious life and became a nun at the monastery of the visitation" at the corner of Park and Centre Streets in Baltimore and never married.

17 The will of George Combs stipulated that Elizabeth

would inherit $2,000 upon his death. 18 It is unclear when Elizabeth Combs died.

The couple's second child Ann Maria (Nannie) Combs was born on August 2, 1831. 19 According to newspaper accounts, she was active in organizing the Southern Relief Fair in the aftermath of the Civil War, coordinated entertainment at Clifton Factory in 1879, and was exceptionally active in the St. Aloysius Church choir. 20 In 1889 at the age of 58, she married George-Washington Hill and eventually moved to Washington, D.C. When she died on February 16, 1922, however, she was interred at the Our Lady's Chapel cemetery at nearby Medley's Neck, Maryland. 21

The third daughter, Charlotte Coad Combs was born c. 1848. In 1865 .-.she was the maid- of-honor for Ruth Ford, daughter of Circuit Court Judge

,obert Ford, who married lawyer Robert c. Combs of Eldon (SM-338) . 22

Sometime between 1870 and 1880, she married Lieutenant William Kilty Mcsherry (USMC) . 23 By 1880, however, Charlotte was listed in the census as widowed or divorced. She eventually remarried General Frank Armstrong, CSA

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sometime after 1891. Charlotte died after an extended illness on June 23, 1910. 24 Overall, the children of George and Mary Catherine Coad Combs reflected the couple's devotion to the Catholic religion and confirmed their place in and connections to the county's wealthy elite.

The Combs family's occupation of Buena Vista ended in the last quarter of the nineteenth century. Mary Catherine Coad Combs died on March 9, 1887 and was followed a year later on June 19, 1888 by George Combs whose health "had been failing for sometime past and his death was not unexpected. " 25

Two of his daughters, Charlotte and Anne were left to settle his estate. Rather than stay at Buena Vista they immediately chose to dispose of the

--operty for by June 28, 1888 an advertisement in the St. Mary's Beacon iioted that Buena Vista was for sale. 26 By December 20, 1888, Nannie Combs had left to live in Washington, D.C. 27 It took three years, however, before the Combs sisters transferred the property to Mary E. Mattingly wife of T. Lee Mattingly for $4,000 on May 20, 1891 . 28 The property remained in the Mattingly family until 1942 when it was sold to J. Allan and Clara C. Coad. 29 The Coad's sold Buena Vista only a year later to Elizabeth G. Mattingly in 1943, but only after shrinking the formerly 97 acre farm to the 1 .63 acres that immediately surrounded the house. 30 In 1944, Elizabeth Mattingly transferred the property to Genevieve M. Greenwell.

31 She owned

the property until 1958, when she conveyed it to T. Joseph Burch, Frances 32 G. Burch and G. Hope Greenwell. Soon after they purchased the property,

the Burchs renovated the house by reinforcing the floor joists, adding bathrooms and closet spaces, and making other necessary repairs to the porches.

It was after the Burch family renovated the house that Leonardtown grew considerably. As a result of this growth, much of the property surrounding the house along the Maryland Route 5 corridor became prime sites for commercial and institutional uses. Immediately to the east of the house, a supermarket was constructed and to the north the St. Mary's

----Uospital was erected. Today, the property remains adequately buffered by _Jws of trees and bushes. The long drive from Route 5 to the house remains preserved and the house is in good repair, but still threatened by the surrounding changes in land use. Today, Buena Vista remains in the ownership of the Burch family.

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Vincent Camalier: His work at Buena Vista in Context

During his tenure as an architect/builder operating in Leonardtown from 1831-1862, Vincent Camalier came to epitomize the multi-faceted nature of craftsmen during the mid-nineteenth century. His work, especially at Buena Vista, reflected the gradual technological as well as stylistic changes that influenced the work of a rural house builder as well as the architecture in the region. His use of prefabricated architectural components from Baltimore, bold Greek Revival detailing, and the formal -loor plans that segregated domestic service are just some of the ways ~arnalier was able to satisfy the desires of his clients and execute a successful business.

Vincent Camalier was born c. 1785 in France. As a result of the French Revolution, however, his family became political refugees and fled to Genoa, Italy. By 1797, Camalier and his older brother had emigrated to the United States and lived in Washington, D.C. During the War of 1812 he became a private in the infantry under a number of different officers including Captain Ambrose White and Captain Harvey Biston, whose units were unspecified. His term of service expired on October 8, 1814. In 1820, he married Katherine Kail and the couple raised five children. 33 By 1824, he received a diploma from the Master Carpenter's Society of Washington, D.C. and afterwards supposedly submitted bids for several large public projects in the infant capital city including for the United States Capital and the Washington Monument. 34 In 1830, however, Katherine Kail died tragically near the Washington Navy Yard from an unknown cause. 35 In 1831, Vincent Camalier moved his family to St. Mary's County. Camalier, however, never purchased property in the county and it is unclear where in Leonadtown he and his family stayed.

From 1831 until his death in 1862, Camalier was "marked for the possession of very superior qualifications in his business, connected with

--::i_n energy of character scarcely ever equalled. " 36 His skill and prestige ~s a builder/architect was reflected in the clientele he garnered. From 1840-1859, for instance, Camalier was chosen to execute several public projects including a covered bridge (c. 1840-1846) over Mcintosh Run just north of Leonardtown, St. Aloysius Church (c. 1846-1847) also in

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Leonardtown, and a school house (c. 1859) at an unknown location. Camalier also "restored" Ellenborough (SM-68, c. 1857) for Benjamin Gwinn Harris, a United States Congressman who lived two miles south of Leonardtown, built a store (c. 1855) for local merchant George C. Morgan, and restored a dwelling at "Jutland" (c. 1857) for local lawyer and large landowner Henry Greenfield Sothoron Key. 37

Given his rapport with Leonardtown's elite legislators, lawyers, and merchants it seems logical that he also constructed Buena Vista for the Combs family. George Combs and Camalier were obviously familiar with each other. George Combs, for instance, served on the committee that oversaw

_._he construction of a new St. Aloysius Church in Leonardtown in 1846-,847. 38 The committee eventually chose Camalier for the project. Both Camalier and Combs were also members of the St. Mary's Reading Room and Debating Society as well as the St. Mary's Savings Institution. 39 Besides these connections, however, it is architectural evidence that provides the best context for explaining Camalier's influence in the ·construction of Buena Vista.

The fashionable Greek Revival-style of Buena Vista was popular with architects and carpenters, as well as clients from 1830 to 1850. Inspiration from classical Greek forms, sympathy aroused by a Greek war of independence (1821-1830), and a push away from British forms in the aftermath of the War of 1812, generated this distinctively American architectural style. 40 Many of its architectural components such as moldings, mantels, stair brackets, newels, as well as floor plans, were popularized in carpenters' guides and pattern books such as Asher Benjamin's The Practical House Carpenter; The Builder's Guide as well as Minard Lafever's The Modern Builder's Guide; The Beauties of Modern Architecture. 41 Having received a formal diploma from the Master Carpenter's Society in Washington, D.C., Camalier probably was familiar with these and other books. While the architectural details found in Buena Vista were not necessarily extracted directly from these guides, many of

~the building's architectural components probably were prefabricated by lrban millwork shops. The scroll-sawn stair brackets, bulbous stair newel, and mantels as well as the cut nails and circular-sawn lath all probably were purchased in Baltimore. Most of the building materials probably were

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procured and tooled locally as the structural members (i.e. floor joists, posts, studs, rafters) were either hewn or pit sawn.

While some of the architectural elements were from pattern books, the dwelling's most distinctive feature, the portico, was more influenced by Camalier's own idiosyncratic design. The Tuscan portico on the south elevation of the house was composed of four square columns that exhibited a slight entasis. These columns supported a closed bed pediment with a tympanum of flush boards. This combination of elements, most notably the entasized columns, is a distinctively localized interpretation of Greek classicism that Camalier employed. Other buildings associated with

--.amalier, such as White Hall (SM-54), the Union Hotel (SM-545), and the orome-Howard House (SM-33), featured unmistakably similar columns and/or porticos. These buildings also represent some of the few known examples of the Greek Revival style in St. Mary's County that have been attributed to Camalier. Along with his fashionable exterior design, however, Camalier was attentive to more traditional modes of living at Buena Vista, as well as White Hall and the Brome-Howard House, for all of these dwellings had a much more conventional interior organization. The side passage plan represented a traditional floor plan that had been popular in the county since c. 1775. The arrangement of spaces effectively segregated movement around the house for servant, owner, and visitor alike and easily permitted cross ventilation. So while the exterior of Buena Vista presented a fashionable appearance, the interior revealed an adherence to traditional domestic considerations.

As an architect/builder, Camalier epitomized the versatile nature of mid-nineteenth century building craftsmen. Interchangeably referred to as an architect, builder, mechanic, joiner, and master carpenter in newspapers, the census, and in advertisements, Camalier represented a jackof-all-trades. In this multi-faceted role, Camalier could merge the relationship between architect and contractor and conduct a wide variety of projects such as building a bridge, store, church, school, dwellings, as

-well as execute extensive renovations. This is precisely the image that ..::amalier promoted when he advertised in 1857 offering "his services to the public in the capacity of Architect and Builder and will at short notice prepare plans, drawings, specifications, and estimates of cost of buildings, materials &c &c of wood, stone, or brick, charges moderate. " 42

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Camalier knew that he was competing with Baltimore builders and realized that many public clients, such as churches and colleges, often opted to have an architect submit designs and then have contractors competitively bid for the project. 43 As a well respected local builder, Camalier could compete in price with these urban firms, but because of his limited resources his design work as well as his contracting business did not always prevail. An example would be the modifications to St. Aloysius Church which were first advertised in 1860. An advertisement in the St. Mary's Beacon asked for proposals for the "erection of a TOWER, BELFRY, SPIRE, and other additions." It further noted that plans and

-Decifications "could be seen at the office of THOS & J. M. DIXON" in .ual timore or at the "Store of E. LEO SPALDING, in Leonardtown. " 44

While Camalier did not always competitively prevail, he was still an esteemed citizen of Leonardtown. Curiously, Camalier did not own his own house as he is listed in census records as a boarder in the Union Hotel and not living in a private residence during the 1850s and 1860s.

45 After a

long illness, Vincent Camalier died on January 16, 1862. In his obituary, the writer noted that "Although his health had been precarious for several years past, he continued his favorite employment up to the moment of his death. He enjoyed in a high degree the respect and confidence of our entire community." 46 Buena Vista represents a chronicle of his abilities as a designer and builder. His unique interpretations of Greek Classicism, his ability to negotiate the tensions between tradition and fashion, as well as his ability to compete with urban contractors made Vincent Camalier a successful local craftsman and significant local figure.

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SM-52 Buena Vista St . Mary ' s Co . , MD

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Notes

St. Mary's County Land Records, St. Mary's County Courthouse, Leonardtown, Maryland, Liber

JH 9, Folio 157.

2 St. Mary's County Land Records, St. Mary's County Courthouse, Leonardtown, Maryland, JH

11, Folio 156.

3 St. Mary's Beacon, v 48: 392, p 3, c 1, 21 June 1888.

4 Regina Combs Hammett, History of St. Mary's county, Maryland 1634-1990 (Ridge, Md: N.p.,

1994), 432, 513.

-" Margaret Fresco. Marriages and Deaths in St. Mary's County, 1634-1900. (Ridge, Md:

.1.p., 1992), 64. United States Census, Manuscript Population Schedules, St. Mary's County,

Maryland, 1840, 1850, 1860, 1870, 1880, Maryland Hall of Records, Annapolis, Maryland.

6 SMB, v 48: 393, p 2, c 3, 28 June 1888.

7 Hammett, p 502.

8 T. Edward Stokel, the great grandson of Vincent Carnalier and Leonardtown historian, notes

that he was always told that Buena Vista was designed and built by Vincent Carnalier as were

several other buildings around town including the Union Hotel, White Hall, as well as the

Brome-Howard House near St. Mary's City.

9 SMB, v 48: 392, p 3, c 1, 21 June 1888.

10 Charles Fenwick, "Dedication of St. Aloysius Church, Leonardtown Maryland, March 18,

1962" (Pamphlet), p 31.

11 Al Gough, "St. Mary's County Reading Room and Debating Society," St. Mary's Chronicles, v

140, # 4, Winter 1992, p 188.

12 SMB, v 10: 35, p 2, c 7, 26 June 1873.

13 Bayly Ellen Marks, "Economics and Society in a Staple Plantation System: St. Mary's

County, Maryland 1790-1840" (Dissertation, University of Maryland), 52, 200.

14 United States Census, Manuscript Agricultural Schedules, St. Mary's County, Maryland

~1850, 1860, 1870, 1880, Maryland Hall of Records.

5 Ruth Ann Overbeck, et al, "Cross Manor, SM-3" National Register of Historic Places

Registration Form, August , 1988.

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16 U. S. Census, Slave Schedules, 1850, 1860, St. Mary's County Historical Society,

Leonardtown, Maryland. Agnes Kane Callum (transcriber), Slave Statistics of St. Mary's

County. Md. 1864, Commissioner George B. Dent (Mullac Publishing, Baltimore, Maryland, 1993).

17 St. Mary's County Register of Wills, St. Mary's County Courthouse, Leonardtown, Maryland,

Liber JBA 1, Folio 161.

18 Ibid, Liber JBA 1, Folio 161.

19 Janet Tice, et al. Burials from Tombstones. Grave Markers. and Church Registers of St.

Mary's County, Maryland (1634-1994) (Leonardtown, Md: St. Mary's County Historical Society,

~996.), p 125.

~O SMB, v 3: 34, p 2, c 3, 23 August 1866, v 17: 3, p 2, c 2, 11 September 1879, v 49:

418, p 3, c 4, 20 December 1888.

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

33

Tice, p 1 25.

Fresco, 65.

SMB, 23 June 1 91 0.

Ibid.

SMB, v 48: 392, p

SMB, v 48: 393, p

SMB, v 49: 418, p

Land Records, Liber

Land Records, Liber

Land Records, Liber

Land Records, Liber

Land Records, Liber

Fenwick, 31 .

3, c 1 , 21 June 1888.

2, c 3, 28 June 1888.

3, c 4, 20 December 1 888.

JFF 1 2, Folio 577.

CBG 1 3, Folio 401 .

CBG 1 5, Folio 374.

CBG 1 6, Folio 1 2.

CBG 78, Folio 246.

34 SMB, v 18: 4, p 2, c 2, 23 January 1862. While local historians have related

Camalier's bids on the Washington Monument and the United States Capitol, no primary

~documentation has been located to substantiate this.

5 Fresco, 350.

36 Ibid.

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37 SMB, v 66: 430, p 3, c 1, 7 December 1905. St. Mary's City Architectural Research

Center Vertical Files, Ellenborough, SM-68, Correspondence between Charles Fenwick and Mrs.

Alice Behrendt, undated.

38 Fenwick, 31.

39 Gough, Al, "St. Mary's County Reading Room & Debating Society," Chronicles of St.

Mary's, v 140: 4, Winter 1992, 188.

40 Virginia & Lee McAlester, A Field Guide to American Houses (New York: Alfred A. Knopf,

1990), 182-183.

--"1 McAlester, 183. See also Gabrielle M. Lanier & Bernard L. Herman, Everyday Architecture

vf the Mid-Atlantic: Looking at Buildings and Landscapes (Baltimore,Md: Johns Hopkins

University Press, 1997), 138-139 and Catherine w. Bishir, Architects and Builders in North

Carolina: A History of the Practice of Building (Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina

Press, 1990), 149-153.

42 SMB, v 12: 14, p 2, c 6, 16 April 1857.

43 Another advertisement placed by Camalier in the St. Mary's Beacon, notes that he could

complete projects at "BALTIMORE PRICES" certainly suggesting that most high end dwellings and

buildings were being bid on by Baltimore craftsmen. See SMB, v 16: 6, p 3, c 1, 9 February

1860.

44 SMB, v 16: 20, p 3, c 2, 17 May 1860.

45 U.S. Census, Schedule of Population, St. Mary's County, 1850, 1860. Microfilm copies at

the Maryland Hall of Records.

46 SMB, v 18: 4, p 2, c 2, 23 January 1862.

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MAJOR BIBLIOGRAPHICAL REFERENCES

See notes to Section 8

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GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

Verbal Boundary Description:

Boundary Justification:

OMB No. 1024-0018


l MILE ==i

Pawpaw Point

40'

0

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Heavy-duty

Buzzard Point 0 light

!} Corn

~Cedar

~ Mouldy

D CLASSIFICATION ROA

Lig~t-duty

6.Pine

SM-S'Z-~tJcNA vlSTA

ST. A1A.F-. '{ ls CD. fl."\/\ \L~ :-A ~J:;)

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76037'30"

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Capsule Summary SM-52 Buena Vista Leonardtown Private c. 1840s

Buena Vista represents a significant two-and-a-half story, frame dwelling on the outskirts

of Leonardtown. Constructed by master carpenter Vincent Camalier for George and Mary C.

Combs in the 1840s, the building's architectural details including its plain pedimented portico,

interior decorative hierarchy, side-passage plan, mantles, and elaborate staircase all distinguish the

building as an exceptional example of the Greek Revival style that communicates the wealth and

prestige of its initial occupants.

George and Mary Combs originally purchased the property in 1837 from William J. and

Ellen Edelin for $2,000. The 96 acre tract had previously been "part of America Felix Secundus"

in 1831 when the Edelin family received the property from H.G.S. and Henrietta Key. Under the

Combs ownership, a two story, gable end ell (which probably predates the main section) was

moved to the site and added to the main dwelling--thus integrating kitchen and work space as well

as domestic service into the dwelling. This architectural and documentary evidence reveals how

St. Mary's County residents found it necessary to retain servants into the late-nineteenth century--

keeping domestic service ingrained within the architectural landscape.

SM-52, Buena Vista St. Mary's County Maryland Comprehensive State Historic Preservation Data

Historic Context Geographic Organization:

Chronological/Developmental Period:

Historic Period Theme:

Resource Type Category:

Historic Environment:

Historic Function and Use:

Known Design Source:

Western Shore

Agricultural-Industrial Transition, 1815-1870

Architecture

Building

Rural/Suburban

Residence

Vincent Camalier, Master Carpenter

Survey No. S+-52

Maryland Historical Trust HiS~·~::: c PR~-==~:.Es State Historic Sites Inventory Form

Magi No.

DOE _yes no

1. Name (indicate preferred name)

historic Buena Vista

and/or common

2. Location 0.2 miles W of the intersection of Routes 245 and 5, on the N side of Route 5

street & number _ not for publication

city, town Leonardtown _ vicinity of congressional district 3

state Mrry land county St. Mlry 's

3. Classification Category _district__!_ building(&) _structure _site _object

Ownership _public __!._ private _both Public Acquisition _in process _ being considered ~not applicable

Status ___!___occupied _ unoccupied _ work in progress Accessible _..!._ yes: restricted _yes: unrestricted _no

Present Use _agriculture _commercial _ educational _ entertainment _ government _ industrial _military

_museum _park _x_ private residence _religious _ scientific _ transportation _other:

4. Owner of Property (give names and mailing addresses of ~ owners)

name Francis F. Burch and Thaddeus J. Burch

street & number FO Box 174 telephone no. : (JJl) 475-%25

city, town Leonardtown state and zip codeMrryland 20)~

5. Location of Legal Description

courthouse, registry of deeds, etc. St. Mrry' s County c.ourthouse liber CE 78

street & number folio 246

city, town Leonardtown state Mrry land

&. Representation in Existing Historical surveys

tttle Buena Vista

date pre-1973 _federal _ state ---4- county _ local

posltory for survey records Mrryland Historical Trust

ctty, town Crownsville state Ml

7. Description

Condition _____!___ excellent _good _fair

Check one _ deteriorated -..L unaltered _ruins _altered _unexposed

Check one --1L original site _moved date of move

Survey No .S1-52

Prepare both a summary paragraph and a general description of the resource and its various elements as it exists today.

Contributing resource count: 2

Buena Vista is located on the north side of Maryland Route 5, 0.2 miles west from the intersection of Route 5 and Washington A venue in Leonardtown, Maryland. Setback approximately 50 yards from the road, the house is approached via an oval shaped drive. The dwelling rests on a relatively level lot of 1.61 acres. While the parcel is bordered by a hospital to the west and north, a supermarket to the east, and a busy road to the south, the site is adequately buffered and sheltered on all four sides by significantly sized holly, walnut, oak, and cedar trees and a variety of shrubs and bushes. The property also contains a braced frame meathouse located only a few feet from the north side of the dwelling.

Constructed in 1830-1840, Buena Vista is a two-and-a-half story, three-bay, Greek Revival-style frame dwelling with a two story, three-bay, frame, side-ell. Both sections rest on a brick foundation and are sheathed with clapboard. All windows on both sections are six-over-six, double-hung sash windows. The roof of the main block, covered with raised seam metal, is pierced by two, interior-end brick chimneys. The ell, meanwhile, exhibits an exterior end brick chimney. The main block of the dwelling exhibits a side-passage plan with a double parlor while the ell consists of a stair-passage (which also now contains a storage closet) and one large room.

The south or primary elevation consists of the three bay main block and three bay ell with each window and door symmetrically aligned with the bay above it. The main block's first floor i pierced by two, six-over-six, double-hung sash windows and a five-panel door (two vertical panels on the bottom and three panels above) with a three light transom. Each window features two, functional louvered shutters. The first floor bays are shaded by a Doric pedimented portico supported by four square columns that exhibit entasis or a slight curvature in their profile. The pediment does not contain any decoration, but exhibits a subtle three step cornice. These architectural details resemble elements once found on White Hall (SM-54)--now demolished. The second floor of this section features three windows while two gable dormers exhibiting engaged pilasters and comer blocks pierce the roof. The gable end ell also consists of three bays. Two small six-over-six windows and a door pierce the first floor. These bays are also shaded by a porch supported by four square columns that also exhibit entasis. The second floor is pierced by three small windows.

The east elevation consists of the gable end of the ell and main block. The main block is · pierced by two windows--one near the south comer of the second floor and one centrally located on the attic story. The ell, meanwhile, exhibits one window on the first floor and two windows on the second floor. An exterior end, common bond chimney extends between the two windows of the ell and steps back from the gable end wall.

The north elevation resembles the south elevation in that it features the same number of sash and doors on all floors. This elevation, however, does not exhibit the same degree of decoration. The main block, for instance, features a smaller portico over the passage entry. This portico is supported by two square columns that exhibit entasis. Notably, a window on the second floor of the ell exhibits a plain frieze above its header. The other windows on the second floor do not exhibit similar treatments.

8. Significance Survey No. 91-52

Period Areas of Significance-Check and justify below _ prehistoric

- 140G-1499 _archeology-prehistoric _community planning _landscape architecture_ religion _ archeology-historic _ conservation _ law _ science

150G-1599 _ 160G-1699 _ 170G-1799 ---4---- 1 BOG-1899 _190G-

Specific dates

_ agriculture _economics _ literature __ sculpture ___x__ architecture _ education _ military _ social/ _ art _engineering _ music humanitarian _commerce _exploration/settlement _ philosophy _theater _ communications _ industry _ politics/government __ transportation

_ invention _other (specify)

Builder/ Architect

check: Applicable Criteria: x A _!_B _x_C and/or

D

Applicable Exception: A B C D E F G

Level of Significance: ..JLnational ..JLstate _x_local

Prepare both a summary paragraph of significance and a general statement of history and support.

Buena Vista represents a significant example of a Greek Revival style dwelling in St. Mary's County. The two-and-a-half story, frame, side-passage plan dwelling exhibits a pedimented Doric portico on its primary elevation with columns that bend to suggest entasis. Its interior decoration, follows a clear hierarchy that simultaneously communicated wealth, domestic organization, as well as social distance. The dwelling's plan as well as the range in decorative schemes from the turned newel, scroll sawn stair brackets, and stair case panelling to the east ell's plain mantle, rudimentary winder stair, and smaller trimwork around the windows and doors served to guide guests towards the more formal spaces of the home and also inform visitors of the occupant's wealth and social status--elements typically found in elite homes of the mid-nineteenth century.

While an exceptional example of the Greek Revival style, the house is also significant for its association with a local farming family as well as a local builder and architect. According to oral tradition Vincent Camalier, a local builder and architect, built the two-and-a-half story, sidepassage plan house for George and Mary C. Combs in the 1840s. Combs originally purchased the property in 1837 from William J. and Ellen Edelin for $2,000. A plat, surveyed by Benjamin Tippet Sr., laid out the boundaries for the 96 acre tract (called "part of America Felix Secundus") in 1831 when the Edelin family received the property from H.G.S. and Henrietta Key. In this map, a lot for the "Wesley Chapel" is excepted from the transaction.

According to oral tradition, George and Mary C. Combs commissioned Vincent Camalier to erect the dwelling in the 1840s. Camalier, a master carpenter who migrated from Washington, D.C. to St. Mary's County in 1831, erected a Greek Revival dwelling that reflected the Combs family's wealth and prestige. In the 1850 United States Population Census, George Combs is listed as having a $5,000 personal estate. By 1860 this had significantly grown to a $40,000 personal estate and $12,000 in real estate. These records also note that the couple had three daughters Elizabeth, Nanna, and Charlotte. Architectural evidence found in the east ell suggests that this service wing (which probably predates the main house) was moved from another site and then added to the main house possibly in the 1860s. The addition may have reflected the need to consolidate domestic service. This architectural and documentary evidence reveals how St. Mary's County residents found it necessary to retain domestic servants even into the late-ninteenth century.

9. Major Bibliographical References Survey No. S1-52

1850, 186J, 1870, 188) United States Schedule of Population, St. 1'13ry's County Historical Sa:iety

1 O. Geographical Data Acreage of nominated property __ l_.6_l_a __ c_res ___ _ Quadrangle name Leonardtown. M:i Quadrangle scale l.._,·...,24=--....an"'°"'-----

UTM References do NOT complete UTM references

ALL_J I I I I Zone Easting

c LJ.J .___! ......___._ ____ _

E Li._J I......._........._..._.__

G Li._J ._I --...---

I I I I I Northing

Verbal boundary description and justification

Sane as per deed description.

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List all states and counties for properties overlapping state or county boundaries

state code county code

state code county code

11. Form Prepared By

name/title Kirk E. Ranzetta, Historic Sites Surveyor

organization St. 1'13ry 's County Planning and ZOning date fucanber 1 gXJ

street & number 328 Washington Street telephone (311) 475-4fh2

city or town Leonardt™11 state 1'13ryland

The Maryland Historic Sites Inventory was officially created by an Act of the Maryland Legislature to be found in the Annotated Code of Maryland, Article 41, Section 181 KA, 1974 supplement.

The survey and inventory are being prepared for information and record purposes only and do not constitute any infringement of individual property rights.

return to: Maryland Historical Shaw House

Annapol" , Maryland 21401 (301) 269-2438

PS-2746

SM-52, Buena Vista St. Mary's County 7.1 Description

The west elevation features three windows on the first and second floor and a single centrally placed window on the attic story. The first floor window located near the northwest comer is a false bay. This window bay is situated where the interior stair is located. While the sash exists on the exterior, the window does not light the interior and has been covered over.

Buena Vista's interior reflects a deliberate ornamental hierarchy. The side-passage, doubleparlor main block is ornately decorated, while the gable end ell features much less decorative treatment. The passage of the main block, for instance, provides entry into all spaces of the main block's interior through two doors and an elaboratively decorated stair. Each of the door and window surrounds (in the interior of the main block) feature wide moldings with comer blocks. The open string stair exhibits a turned newel, a panelled base, and bracketing as well. The scrollwork changes to a 6-shape at the stair's return. The passage also features a circular shaped plaster ceiling molding. Similar moldings are found in each of the parlors as well. The south or front parlor exhibits a classically inspired mantel decorated with Doric columns, a horizontally banded frieze, and a thin, attenuated mantle-top. The south parlor is connected to the north parlor through a pair of large, swinging, five-panel doors that open into the south parlor. The north parlor contains an identical mantel and also a door with a covered over transom to the passage of the gable end ell. The main block's second floor contains three bedrooms and the stair passage. Two of the rooms exhibit fireplace mantles that are more modestly decorated with plain engaged pilasters and friezes. Like the first floor, the window and door surrounds exhibit wide moldings with comer blocks.

The gable end-ell can be entered through the door in the north parlor of the main block, a door in a second floor bedroom, or through one of two exterior doors that permit entry into the ell's passage. Upon entering the ell, a different decorative scheme is immediately noticed. The moldings and comer blocks around all doors and windows are smaller and less elaborate and the mantle located in the large first floor room exhibits a plain frieze and pilasters. The winder stair, located in the passage, features plain, square banisters and a newel (similar to those found in Eldon (SM-338). The second floor of the main ell contains two rooms-a passage and a bedroom. The ell's second floor can also be entered through a door located in a main block bedroom. Notably, the ell appears to have been constructed before the main block but added to the building at a later time. Evidence located at the intersection of the two sections, reveals that the gable end of the main block was originally covered with clapboard. This clapboard was subsequently taken off when the ell was added leaving behind the nail-holes. The ell's earlier date is suggested by the skinned, hewn, and pits-sawn rafter pairs with pegged bridle joints at their peak. The owner, Frank Burch, noted that the ell could predate the main section of the house and was probably moved to the site after the main block was built. This evidence appears to support this contention.

Immediately to the north of the dwelling is a braced frame meathouse. The structure is clad in flush, horizontal, chestnut boards while the roof is sheathed with corrugated metal. The interior exhibits an exposed frame covered with black soot--evidence of its use as a smokehouse and curing shed for hams. The braced frame consists of down braces that are side-mortised and tenoned to the comer posts and the sill. It also features several ties that extend across the top of the smokehouse. These ties were used to hang hams from. The exterior also exhibits a box cornice. Frank Burch confirmed that the building served as a meathouse.

SM-52, Buena Vista St. Mary's County 8.1 Significance

Chain-of-Title (Please note that all deeds were found in the Land Records located in the St. Mary's County Courthouse in Leonardtown, Maryland unless otherwise noted.)

Reference: Liber CBG 78, Folio 246 Grantee: T. Joseph Burch, Frances G. Burch, and G. Hope Greenwell Grantor. Genevieve N. Greenwell Date: November 22, 1958 Note: The property consists of 1.63 acres and is called "Buena Vista." 0.02 acres was later purchased by the town of Leonardtown in order to install sidewalks in front of the property.

Reference: Liber CBG 16, Folio 12 Grantee: Genevieve M. Greenwell Grantor: Elizabeth G. Mattingly Date: February 23, 1944 Note: This deed references a plat surveyed by George W. Joy, Jr. on February 3, 1944.

Reference: Liber CBG 15, Folio 374 Grantee: Elizabeth G. Mattingly Grantor: J. Allan and Clara C. Coad Date: October 11, 1943 Note: Here the tract consists of 97 acres, the farm's original size.

Reference: Liber CBG 13, Folio 401 Grantee: J. Allan Coad Grantor: Catherine Cleopatra Mattingly Date: May 28, 1942 Note: This deed's "bean clause" explains how the property changed hands through the Mattingly family's hands. Catherine was devised the property by T. Lee Mattingly in her will (Will Records, Liber JWG 1, Folio 12, October 22, 1940). T. Lee Mattingly received the property from Mary E. Mattingly's will (Will Records, Liber PHD 1, Folio 460, February 11, 1915).

Reference: Liber JFF 12, Folio 577 Grantee: Mary E. Mattingly Grantor: Nannie M. (Ann Maria?) Combs and Charlotte Coad McSherry (Combs) Date: May 20, 1891 Note: George Combs devised the farm to his children and wife when he died in 1888 (Will Records, Liber JBA 1, Folio 161, June 30, 1888).

Reference: Liber JH 11, Folio 156 Grantee: George Combs Grantor: William J. and Ellen Edelen Date: August 9, 1837 Note: George Combs purchases the farm for $2000.

Reference: Liber JH 9, Folio 157 Grantee: William J. Edelin Grantor: H. G. S. and Henrietta Key Date: November 8, 1831 Note: The tract consists of 96 acres and is "part of America Felix Secundus." A lot for the "Wesley Chapel" is mentioned in the property description. The deed also includes a plat surveyed by Benjamin Tippett.

SM-52, Buena Vista St. Mary's County 8.2 Significance

Plat by Benjamin Tippett showing the boundaries of "part of America Felix Secundus" that was sold by H. G. S. and Henrietta Key to William J. and Ellen Edelin. The 96 acre tract would later be the home fann for "Buena Vista" St. Mary's County Land Records, St. Mary's County Courthouse, Liber JH 9, Folio 159.

- SM-52. Buena Vista St. Mary's County 8.3 Significance

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1850s map of Leonardtown by the surveyor Benjamin Tippett. Benjamin Tipoett's Survey Book. 1852-1878, St. Mary's County Courthouse. Land Records Office.unmarked page. Map redrawn by Kirk E. Ranzetta.

E .M -52

--

BUENA VISTA Leonardtown Private

I 10 • I •·~ t

1840's

Buena Vista was designed by Vincent A.

Camalier, a Leonardtown architect, according to local

tradition. It is a two-story frame house of double

parlor plan with a one-story, wide pedimented porch very 411e Hov11t:i fa j?rm

similar to the house at/\Brome-P:l:autat:i: (SfMA,-33).

The main block of double parlors and wide side hall

was built first)and a lower two-story wing of one room

and small hall was added later. Both date from the 1840's.

A frame meat house and a kitchen stood behind the

house. Only the meat house survives.

BUENA VISTA SM- 52

\ '-o o 5"2-S"l~~ MARYLAND HISTORICAL TRUST WORKSHEET

NOMINATION FORM for the

NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES, NATIONAL PARKS SERVICE

z 0

B!\.uena Vista ANO/OR HISTORIC:

STREET AND NUMBER:

Jefferson Street (MD 5) CITY OR TOWN:

Leonardtown STATE

Maryland

J, ¢LASSfFiC:AT•Ott CATEGORY (Check One)

0 District 0 Building

0 Site

OWNERSHIP

Public Acquisition:

0 In Process 0 Structure

0 Object

0 Public

0 Private

O Both O Being Considered .,_ ....f.J PRESENT USE (Check One or More ea Appropriate)

z

0 Agricultural

0 Commercial

0 Educational

0 Entertainment

WNER'S NAME:

W STREET ANO NUMBER:

w "' Cl TY OR TOWN:

0 Government

0 Industrial

0 Military

D Museum

COURTHOUSE, REGISTRY OF DEEDS, ETC:

0 Park

0 Private RHidence

0 Religious

0 Scientific

St. Mary's County Courthouse STREET ANO NUMBER:

Cl TY OR TOWN: Leonardtown

TITL.E OF SURVEY:

DATE OF SURVEY: 0 Federal bEPOSITORY FOR SURVEY RECORDS:

STR T ANO NUMBER:

CITY OR TOWN:

--------------·--------------

0 State

STATE:

STATUS

0 Occupied

0 Unoccupied

ACCESSIBLE

TO THE PUBLIC

Yes:

D RHtricted

0 Preservation work D UnrHtricted

in progres 1

0 Transportation

0 Other (Specify)

0 County

Kl No

0 Comments

0 Local

PS - 709

Buena Vista SM- 52

CONDITION 0 Excellent

0 Altered

0 Good 0 Fair

(Check One)

0 Uncltered

(Check One)

0 Deterioroted

DESCRIBE THE PRESENT~ ~o ORIGINAL (II known) PHYSICAL APPEARANCE

0 Ruins 0 ·Unexposed

(Check One)

0 Moved 0 Original Site

Buena Vista is a fram house with a brick foundation. It is three bays long and 2~ stories in height, with a one-story porch and a two-story wing two bays long. There are two dormers and two interior chimneys.

m m

.z

-I

::a c: n -I

0

:z

:z 0

... u

_::> .x ... :z

w w

·~:: Rtf"t~I< •••• ............. ·············· .. ······ PERIOO (Checlr One or More aa Appropriate)

D Pra-Columbion D 16th Century

D 15th Century D 17th Century

SPECIFIC OATE!Sl (11 Applicable and Known)

AREAS OF SIGNIFICANCE (Chaclr Ona or More aa Appropriate)

Abor iginol D Education D D Prehistoric D Engineering D D Historic D Industry

D Agriculture 0 Invention 0 D Architecture D Landscape D 0 Att Architecture 0 0 c ..... merc• 0 Literature

0 Communications 0 Military D 0 Conservation D Music D

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

Buena Vista SM- 52

. ....... ,· ..

·····• . ... . · .. . •··

D 18th Century D 20th Century

D 19th Century

Political D Urbon Planning

Religion/Phi. D Other (Specify)

losophy

Sci an ca

Sculpture

Socio I/Human-

itarian

Theater

T ransportotion

PS-7011

Buena Vista SM- 52

LATITUDE AND LONGITUDE COORDINATES

DEFINING A RECTANGLE LOCATING THE PROPERTY

LATITUDE AND LONGITUDE COORDINATES

0 DEFINING THE CENTER POINT OF A PROPERTY

-.~~~~~~~~~~-.--~~~~~~~~~-iRr--~~~~~~-0-F~L_E_s_s_T_H---,A_N~T_E_N~A_C_R_E_s:,_~~~~~-4 CORNER LATITUDE LONGITUDE

Degrees Minutes Seconds Degrees Minutes Seconds

NW 0 0

NE 0 0

SE 0 0

0 0

APPROXIMATE ACREAGE OF NOMINATED PROPERTY:

Acreage Justification:

NAME AND TITLE:

Michael o. Bourne ORGANIZATION

STREET AND NUMBER:

CITY OR TOWN:

J.2.•: State Liaison Officer Review:

LATITUDE

Degrees Minutes Seconds 0

STATE

(Off ice Use Onl

Significance of this property is: National O State O Local O

Signature

LONGITUDE

Degrees Minutes Seconds 0

DATE

m m

z

-t

:::0

c:: n -t

0

z

1'400

1JOOO

11000

11000 -

10000-:

9000 -

8000-

1ooe-

3000 -

2000 -

1000 -

a-=

!!!!.... I 2 l

" SI

' 1

• ~ I

SM-52 Buena Vista - Maryland Historical Trust · SM-52 Buena Vista Architectural Survey File ... (~-See continuation sheet for additional comments.) ... full width, one story, pedimented

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