A Supreme Court Justice, a Banker, a Grocer, and a Reverend Walk Into a Dentist Office
Our dental office in Newburyport is nestled on the northwesterly side of Green Street. Before it was known as a place for high quality cosmetic dentistry, it was known as the Bradbury-Spaulding House. This example of Georgian-style architecture was once the home for a state supreme court justice, a banker, a local grocer, and a reverend. Now the profession of dentistry has entered this historic Newburyport home continuing the rich story of the property.
Theophilus Bradbury: The Judge
The original owner of the house, Theophilus Bradbury, was born in Newbury in 1739. A distinguished graduate of Harvard College in 1757, he pursued a legal career in Boston before relocating to Newburyport in 1786. Bradbury, along with his wife Sarah, were active members of the First Religious Society of Newburyport. Notably, he served as a member of the Massachusetts Senate from 1791 to 1794 and later represented the region in Congress in 1795. Following his resignation from Congress in 1797, Bradbury was appointed as one of the justices of the Supreme Court of Massachusetts, a position he held until his retirement in 1803. He passed away shortly thereafter, leaving a lasting legacy in the town.
Robert Jenkins: The Banker
Following Theophilus Bradbury’s time in the house, it changed hands several times, each owner contributing to the development of Newburyport. In 1811, Josiah Little became the new owner, and Robert Jenkins, a prominent local businessman, acquired the property in 1814. Jenkins played a significant role as one of the incorporators of the Merchants Insurance Company and Merchants National Bank. His family resided in the house for over three decades.
Hannah Kenny Johnson: The Grocer
In 1847, Hannah Kenny Johnson, who operated a grocery store at the foot of Green Street, became the owner. The property remained within her family until 1876 when it was sold to Mary Chase Toppan. Later, it was entered the ownership Reverend Samuel J. Spaulding and his family.
Samuel J. Spaulding: The Reverend
Reverend Spaulding, the pastor of the Whitefield Congregational Church, was not only a spiritual leader but also a civic-minded individual. He was involved in the formation of the Newburyport Five Cents Savings Bank and a member of the Newburyport Library Association, dedicated to discussing social and political issues. The house continued to be a hub of community involvement throughout the Spaulding family’s tenure.
Dr. Paul Mathew: The Dentist
Today, the Bradbury-Spaulding House has found a new purpose as a dentist office, providing essential dental services to the community. While its function has evolved, the historical charm and architectural significance of the building remain intact. The varied individuals that have called the property home over the years has woven a rich tapestry that tells a notable local story.
If you are looking for a dentist in Newburyport we welcome you to enjoy and be part of the rich history that surrounds our practice.