Winnekenni Castle | Haverhill

Winnekenni Castle, located at 347 Kenoza Avenue in Haverhill, Massachusetts, is a remarkable historic stone castle situated within the expansive Winnekenni Park Conservation Area. This 700-acre natural preserve, featuring wooded trails and the scenic Kenoza Lake, provides a picturesque setting that perfectly complements the castle’s unique architecture and rich history. The castle itself is a local landmark, celebrated both for its architectural distinctiveness and its role as a community gathering place.

Origins and Construction

Winnekenni Castle was built between 1873 and 1875 as the summer residence of Dr. James R. Nichols, a chemist and agricultural scientist from Haverhill. After traveling extensively in England, Nichols was inspired by the medieval castles he saw and sought to replicate a similar structure using native materials. His vision was also experimental: he wanted to demonstrate that the large glacial boulders scattered across New England could be effectively used as building materials. This goal was realized as the castle was constructed from approximately 35,000 cubic feet of local fieldstone and boulders, lending it a distinctive rugged, natural appearance.

The design of Winnekenni Castle was carried out by C. Willis Damon, a local architect, who modeled the structure after the nearby Moulton Castle in Newburyport, Massachusetts, incorporating elements of medieval European castle architecture such as towers, battlements, and crenellations. The castle’s style reflects a romanticized Gothic Revival aesthetic popular in the late 19th century, combining functionality with ornamental features evocative of medieval fortresses.

Architectural Features

Exterior: The castle’s façade is composed entirely of rough-cut granite and massive boulders, creating a textured, imposing look that blends organically into the surrounding natural landscape. Four corner towers rise above the main structure, each historically accessible for panoramic views of the park and lake.

Interior: Originally, the castle’s interior was lavish and eclectic. It included a Grecian-style drawing room adorned with elegant moldings, a Pompeian-themed dining room featuring classical motifs, and a library finished in black walnut with Roman tile flooring. There were nine bedrooms and a bathing room on the second floor, providing comfortable accommodations for Nichols and his guests during the summer months.

Roof and Towers: The roof was accessible from the towers, allowing visitors to enjoy sweeping vistas of the Merrimack Valley, Kenoza Lake, and the surrounding forested parkland.

Decline and Restoration

In 1969, a devastating fire ravaged the castle’s Victorian-era interior, destroying much of the original decorative woodwork, furnishings, and finishes. The exterior stone walls, however, remained largely intact. Following the fire, a group of local citizens formed the Winnekenni Foundation with the goal of preserving and restoring the castle.

During the 1980s, the restoration was undertaken with assistance from students and faculty of Whittier Regional Technical High School, who helped refurbish the castle’s interior and stabilize its structure. While the intricate Victorian interiors were not fully reconstructed, the efforts focused on preserving the castle as a historic landmark and community asset.

Role in the Community

Today, Winnekenni Castle serves as a vibrant cultural and recreational center for Haverhill and the surrounding region. Its scenic location within Winnekenni Park offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, bird watching, and cross-country skiing, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The castle itself hosts a variety of events, including:

Concerts and performances: Local musicians and theater groups often use the castle as a backdrop or venue for outdoor and indoor events.

Workshops and educational programs: Community-oriented activities foster appreciation for history, architecture, and nature.

Seasonal festivals and fairs: These events attract visitors and celebrate local culture and heritage.

Accessibility and Current Status

The castle is currently under the stewardship of the City of Haverhill Parks and Recreation Department. As of recent years, the building has been temporarily closed for rehabilitation and renovation efforts to ensure its long-term preservation and safety.

Visitors to Winnekenni Park can still enjoy the surrounding trails and natural beauty, while the castle remains a focal point of local pride and historical interest. For updates on restoration progress, events, and access, the city’s Parks & Recreation office provides current information.

Visiting Information

Address: 347 Kenoza Avenue, Haverhill, Massachusetts.

Park Access: Open year-round, offering walking trails, picnic areas, and access to Kenoza Lake.

Castle Tours and Events: Available seasonally when open; check with local authorities or the Winnekenni Foundation for current schedules.

Contact: The City of Haverhill Parks & Recreation Department manages the property and can provide visitor information.

Summary

Winnekenni Castle stands as an enduring symbol of Haverhill’s historical ambition, blending experimental architecture with community spirit. From its origins as a personal summer retreat to its current role as a beloved cultural landmark, the castle encapsulates both the romance of 19th-century Gothic Revival design and the dedication of a community committed to preserving its heritage amidst natural beauty.