Holt-Ashwell House
Introduction
Text-to-speech Audio
Images
Before the fire in 2017.
Holt-Ashwell exterior after the fire; New London Methodist Church, North in the background
Holt-Ashwell first floor interior after the fire
Holt-Ashwell second floor interior after the fire
Backstory and Context
Text-to-speech Audio
The Holt-Ashwell house belonged to Andrew Holt in the early 19th century. Holt was an emancipated African-American who worked as a baker, most likely from this location. He was successful enough to purchase the freedom of his wife, Judy and two sons, Burwell and Dennis. Records show that he was twice charged with holding "an unlawful assemblage of negroes" in his home in 1842 and 1851. The charges were dismissed and shortly thereafter, he donated a lot near his home for the construction of a church for African-Americans. The current church building was constructed in 1930 and is the third structure on that lot.
Investigations of the Holt-Ashwell House indicate it was likely built in the mid-19th century, but there are elements of earlier construction incorporated into the building. The five-room, two-floor structure has a painted-on faux brick finish on the exterior. The house was unoccupied when it burned in 2017, though it did sustain significant fire damage. The owner subsequently donated the building to Friends of New London and plans for restoration are still under consideration.
Sources
Gilbert, Rachel. "Andrew Holt and the African American Methodist Episcopal Church." chronologyofnewlondon.wordpress.com.
Smith, Rachael. "Organization Begins Restoration Work on African-American Church in New London." The News & Advance, March 23, 2017.
Talley, Amelia. "Free Man of Colour." Friends of New London Library, 2009.