During a recent Quincy Planning Board meeting, a passionate plea was made to preserve a historic granite stone building located at 92 Willard Street. The speaker expressed deep disappointment over plans to demolish the structure, emphasizing its unique historical significance and connection to the Quincy quarries.

The granite house, which dates back to the 1830s, is one of the few intact Federalist period style homes and the only known granite house built from Quincy granite. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in the 1980s at the request of the Quincy Historic Commission, highlighting its architectural importance. The building was originally erected by Jonas Kendall and later owned by James Graham, a stone carver who lived there for over three decades.

The speaker advocated for the restoration and thoughtful repurposing of the building to complement new developments in the area, rather than allowing it to be torn down. They underscored the need for community awareness regarding the building's architectural significance and the potential for funding opportunities aimed at preservation efforts.

While acknowledging that property owners cannot be forced to maintain historic structures, the speaker urged the community to recognize the value of the granite house, which has withstood the test of time due to the durability of the granite material. They highlighted that with proper maintenance, the building could last for another 200 years, serving as a lasting testament to Quincy’s rich history.

The discussion around the fate of the granite house reflects broader community concerns about preserving Quincy’s historical heritage amidst ongoing development. As the Planning Board continues to deliberate on future projects, the preservation of such significant structures remains a vital topic for residents who value the city’s architectural legacy.