As noted previously, The Wayside is our primary focus. Initial impressions are that it was constructed in the 1880s and that it was finally removed circa 1963, however this information may change as we do more exploring. There are fewer early images and less is generally known about the structure and its owner(s), meaning that we have many questions.
There are two (apparently) early images of The Wayside. They depict the house from slightly different angles. The landscaping is also different in each image (including the presence of a mature tree in the background), raising questions about whether the shots were taken years apart or whether the variations might support the notion that the building was moved from another location. (Image courtesy Featherman University Archive, University of New England)This postcard is the second of the two early images. It is taken from another angle making it difficult to know whether the apparent differences between them are merely a question of perspective. The presence of electrical (or telephone?) wires raises questions about when these services were extended to this area. On that same topic, the previous image shows an electrical meter to the right of the window. That meter seems to be missing in this shot. Is this an indication that the house was moved or simply that renovations/improvements were undertaken by the owner(s)? (Image courtesy Featherman University Archive, University of New England)After the Franciscans purchased The Wayside, they evidently adapted the building for use as classrooms and a dormitory. This shot gives a sense of the “front” of the building and its relationship to other structures in the area. (Image courtesy Featherman University Archive, University of New England)This photograph provides a unique view of The Wayside following construction of what is now Decary Hall. It is unclear whether this image predates purchase of the property by the new college. (Image courtesy Featherman University Archive, University of New England)A series of images depict the house from various angles after it was acquired by the new college. (Image courtesy Featherman University Archive, University of New England)While not artful photographs, each shot provides a different perspective. (Image courtesy Featherman University Archive, University of New England)The old porch was evidently removed at some stage. The electrical meter is clearly visible here. Perhaps the first image in this post is actually later? The lack of dating certainly invites deeper study. (Image courtesy Featherman University Archive, University of New England)It is unclear whether this is The Wayside or another building. This feature is certainly not visible in other photographs. (Image courtesy Featherman University Archive, University of New England)1955 aerial image of the site following removal of The Willows. It is interesting to note that the Coolbrath House was still present at this stage and is visible at the top of the photograph. (Image courtesy Featherman University Archive, University of New England)This color postcard depicts the evolving campus. (Source: Ebay)This 1963 image shows the site following removal of The Wayside.(Image courtesy Featherman University Archive, University of New England)This image from later in 1963 shows the site following re-landscaping. What is heartening is that there seems to have been little change in topography at the site. Does this suggest relatively little damage to Wayside foundations? Only time will tell. (Image courtesy Featherman University Archive, University of New England)
