The Matthew Cottrill House, with its symmetrical front facade and central entry flanked by two sets of windows, is a good example of the Federal style. Its rounded portico with deep entablature supported by fluted columns is notable. The door is topped by a wide elliptical fanlight and sidelights. Its early date is partially demonstrated by the raised granite foundation, often referred to a water table, and more typically seen with the earlier Georgian style. The rear ell is thought to have been associated with the Chapman family, thought to be the first European settlers in Damariscotta. The house was built by Nicholas Codd for Matthew Cottrill, both Irish immigrants and presumably some of the earliest Catholic settlers in New England. Codd also designed the St. Patrick's Catholic Church and the Governor Edward Kavanaugh House, both in nearby Newcastle. Cottrill, along with James Kavanaugh, were in the area by 1791 and became successful businessmen. They organized the construction of St. Patricks Catholic Church and Cottrill donated a Paul Revere bell to the parish. The bell is one of ninety-three cast and is thought to be the only one housed in a Catholic Church.
Year Listed: 1974
For more information: https://npgallery.nps.gov/NRHP/AssetDetail?assetID=897a06ff-d0b0-40af-b57a-5bda93affc98