The
history of the Fisher Hill area, site of the 10th anniversary “Shingles
and Shade Trees” Brookline House Tour, dates back to the 18th century.
Early residents tended to settle at the base of the hill and the area was considered
to be a summer resort as late as the 1850s. In 1884 Frederick Law Olmsted was
hired by several residents to develop a plan for the area and he laid out graceful
curving roads and large lots. Much of the hill was developed soon after, during
the 1880s and 90s. Fisher Hill, with its hilly terrain, curved tree-lined roads
and large house lots, is one of the most picturesque residential neighborhoods
in Brookline.
The
eleven homes on this tour are all within a comfortable four-block walking distance.
Most of the homes were built during the late 1800s and early 1900s, but one
home on the tour was completely rebuilt in 2007 with energy- and water-saving
features: not just high-efficiency appliances and insulation, but a south-facing
wall of windows for heat in winter and an overhang that keeps the house cool
in summer.
Other
homes are filled with history—many retaining charming features despite
updates for comfort (insulation, plumbing, wiring to code, for instance). One,
built in 1905 with room for a full-size pipe organ, includes spectacular details,
like a heart-encrusted balustrade and a large bay window with green dimple glass.
The
tour is self-guided and starts on the porch of 124 Dean Road, near the intersection
of Fisher Ave. Tour-goers come to 124 Dean Road to pick up a program, which
serves as an entrance ticket to each home on the tour. From there, they can
visit the homes at their own pace. The program includes descriptions as well
as a map indicating the locations of each home. Complimentary refreshments will
be offered on the porch of 124 Dean Road, courtesy of many Brookline restaurants.
Tickets
are $25 in advance and can be purchased online by clicking
here.
Advance tickets are also available at Brookline Booksmith and Chobee Hoy Associates.
Tickets on the day of the tour are $30.
