
Built before the Revolutionary War, this early example of mixed-use building is what we need more of in our cities and towns in New England. This charmer is located on Water Street in Warren, Rhode Island, and dates to around 1760. The house was occupied by D. B. Wheaton and later by a James Capper, through the 19th century. James’ wife Ann, worked as a dressmaker and the couple sold goods out of their property. As Water Street continued to proliferate with small businesses, a brick store was inserted into half of the ground floor with plate glass storefronts. This evolution of a Colonial-era residence happened all over New England, and it is great to see that the building is still occupied by a small business today!