Gargoyle House Vermont is not a single, famous building, but rather a term used to describe the historic Hooker-Dunham Building in Brattleboro, Vermont, which features prominent gargoyle-like carvings on its facade. This article explores the building’s history, its distinctive architecture, and the local lore that has made it a point of curiosity.
What Is the Gargoyle House in Vermont?
The Hooker-Dunham Building, located at 139 Main Street in Brattleboro, is often called the “Gargoyle House” by locals and visitors because of the four stone creatures perched on its roofline. These are technically grotesques—carved figures that do not function as water spouts—but the term “gargoyle” has stuck in popular usage. The building was constructed in 1871 for businessman John Hooker and later became home to the Dunham family’s dry goods store. It now houses offices, shops, and apartments, and the carvings remain its most recognizable feature.
The History of the Hooker-Dunham Building
John Hooker, a prominent Brattleboro merchant, commissioned the building in the post-Civil War era when the town was thriving. The design is attributed to local architect E.W. Buckham, who blended Italianate and Gothic Revival styles—a combination that was fashionable at the time. The building’s four-story brick facade includes arched windows, a cornice with brackets, and the four carved creatures that have inspired the nickname. Over the decades, the building served as a department store, a furniture showroom, and even a roller skating rink in its upper floors. In the 1970s, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring its preservation.
Why Are There Gargoyles on a Vermont Building?
In the 19th century, Gothic Revival architecture was popular across the United States, and decorative elements like gargoyles or grotesques were used to evoke medieval European cathedrals. Vermont, with its own history of stone carving and quarrying, was a fitting place for such ornamentation. The creatures on the Hooker-Dunham Building are carved from local sandstone and are believed to represent mythical beasts or stylized animals, though no original architectural drawings survive to confirm their exact symbolism. Some local historians suggest they were purely decorative, intended to add a touch of whimsy and grandeur to a commercial building.
Local Legends and Misconceptions
As with many old buildings, folklore has attached itself to the Hooker-Dunham. Some stories claim the gargoyles come to life at night, or that they were placed to ward off evil spirits—a common myth about medieval gargoyles. Others say the building is haunted by the ghost of a former owner, though there is no documented evidence for such claims. The reality is that the carvings are simply architectural ornamentation, but the legends have made the building a popular stop on ghost tours and a favorite subject for photographers. It is worth noting that none of these supernatural claims are supported by credible sources; they are the kind of local color that enriches a town’s character.
How to Visit the Gargoyle House
If you want to see the gargoyles yourself, the building is located in downtown Brattleboro, easily accessible on foot. The best views are from the sidewalk across the street, where you can look up at the roofline. There is no public observation deck, but the building’s ground floor is open to the public during business hours, and you can see the interior lobby with its original wooden staircase. Brattleboro is a walkable town, and the building is near other historic sites, restaurants, and the Connecticut River. Parking is available on the street and in nearby lots.
Common Questions About the Building
One frequent question is whether the gargoyles are original. Yes, they are original to the 1871 construction, though they have been cleaned and repaired over the years. Another is whether the building is open to tourists. The exterior is always visible, but the interior is private except for the lobby and the businesses within. People also ask if the building is on any official tour. The Brattleboro Historical Society occasionally includes it in walking tours, and self-guided maps are available at the local chamber of commerce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Gargoyle House the same as the Hooker-Dunham Building? Yes, “Gargoyle House” is just a nickname. The official name is the Hooker-Dunham Building, and you will see that on historical markers and in official records.
Are there other buildings with gargoyles in Vermont? Yes, several historic buildings in the state feature grotesques or gargoyle-like carvings, including some churches and university buildings, but the Hooker-Dunham is the most well-known in Brattleboro.
Can you go inside the Gargoyle House? The ground floor is open during business hours, but the upper floors are private. You can see the lobby and, if you have business there, the offices and shops.
Are the gargoyles real gargoyles or just statues? They are statues, technically called grotesques, because they do not have water spouts. True gargoyles are designed to channel rainwater away from a building.
Is the building haunted? There is no documented evidence of hauntings. The ghost stories are folklore, and the building’s historical significance is architectural, not paranormal.
Preservation and Future of the Landmark
The Hooker-Dunham Building is maintained by a private owner, and the Brattleboro Historic Preservation Commission works to ensure that any renovations respect its historic character. In recent years, the building has undergone roof and facade repairs, including careful restoration of the stone carvings. The gargoyles are checked regularly for weathering, and while they show signs of age, they remain intact. The building continues to be a vibrant part of downtown Brattleboro, housing a mix of small businesses and residences, and its famous residents—the four stone creatures—show no signs of leaving.
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