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Historic commission approves cedar‑and‑pine fence to enclose Emerson House paddock
Summary
The commission approved a fence enclosure option for the R.W. Emerson House to enclose a paddock for a miniature pony, requiring natural unfinished wood, galvanized wire backing, and an accelerated 'aging' finish to help the new work blend with the historic site.
The Historic Districts Commission approved a new fence enclosure at the R.W. Emerson House (28 Cambridge Turnpike) on Aug. 28, allowing a design intended to keep a miniature pony on site while respecting the historic context.
Lynn Wilson, representing the RW Emerson Memorial Association, said she researched early‑1900s fencing in Special Collections and presented three design sketches plus two historical photos; proposed materials included cedar posts, pine rails and a galvanized wire backing. She said the fence height would be about 46–47 inches with 8‑ to 10‑foot post spacing.
Commissioners recommended simplifying the design—two rails rather than three—and asked that the applicant apply a finish to accelerate aging so the new wood better matches the historic landscape. The commission also discussed archaeological concerns and concluded that the minimal post holes proposed pose little risk to subsurface resources.
A motion to approve fence Option 2 with the varnish/aging requirement passed by roll-call vote. The applicant said she would make the requested adjustments and proceed with installation under the commission’s approvals.
Next steps: the applicant will proceed with the approved fence design, apply the agreed aging finish at installation, and coordinate any final details with staff.
