Thursday, June 2, 2011

Clingstone Sea House in Narragansett Bay


CLINGSTONE, A faded, shingled 103-year-old mansion set on a rock in Rhode Island's Narragansett Bay, is one family's labor of love. It has been maintained for the past 47 years by working weekends in exchange for free lodging and food.



The Newport Bridge is visible from the windows of the Ping-Pong Room, to the left of the fireplace.



Casual array of multi-colored ping-pong paddles. There is time for play too!



The dining room table seats 14. Refinishing the chairs is a task on the list for a future work weekend.


Clingstone has survived through the love and hard work of family and friends. The architect owner (since 1961) says the house is always going to have rough edges. It's never going to look like the Breakers.

There are 14 photos in all that can be seen in this slideshow. I was fascinated by this story when it appeared in the New York Times on August 7, 2008.

I have been saving it for those of you who missed it. Enjoy.

4 comments:

The Queen Vee said...

I've read about this house before but had forgotten about it. Thanks for saving and sharing, loved the slideshow. In a day of instant grat this is a stunning and loving reminder that family, time, commitment and hard work reap benefits that instant can never buy.

Karen said...

Rosemary,
What a great post. I loved the slideshow and had not heard of this treasure. I'm trying to think of a way I could volunteer to fix something so I could have a stay at this amazing house! :-)
Karen

Marguerite (Tina) Smith Hart said...

Oh my, what a beautiful and breathtaking spot! A home that has harbored many dreams I am sure..
Tina xo

Pam said...

Such a great story--and a fabulous home with one-of-a-kind views. I actually like the fact that it feels a bit worn. So comfortable. It seems all attentions are on the water. Fitting, I think.