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In 1853, Aaron Hastings
and his brother-in-law, Robert Armstrong, purchased land at the top of
Chipman's Hill from Elizabeth Chipman. The construction of two identical free
standing, three story brick buildings, one for each brother-in-law, commenced
shortly thereafter. Although the buildings are identical on the outside, the
painting styles on the inside were completely unique. The decorative paintings
found in both of these buildings are said to be the most elaborate and
extensive of any found in the province.
It is not known who did the paintings in these houses nor when they were done.
It was stated in an article for the "Dalhousie Review" by
Eileen Cushing that they were done by Italian artists brought over by the owner
specifically for this job in 1860. She identified the owner as James Morgan, a
later owner of No.1. However, Morgan did not own No.1 until 1876 so this could
not be the case. An examination of family documents at the New Brunswick Museum
revealed that work had been done, like carpeting, a new stove and other
furnishings. There is no evidence however, that he commissioned any painters.
The painted surfaces in both these have been covered over the years with paint,
wallpaper and other modern wall coverings. In No.5, various wall and ceiling
areas have been cleared of these later overlays to reveal the original painted
schemes. To a lesser extent this has also happened in No. 1. In this building
the vestibule and front parlour paintings have not been covered.
Both of these buildings have been designated as National and Provincial
Historic Sites.
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Brunswick Community College - Saint John.