Specializing in sustainable construction and historic restoration.

Energy Star Partner

EPA Certified Firm

BPI Certified Professional

Watch Wadsworth Construction, Inc. owner David Wadsworth discuss preserving your windows in your older home.

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Unearthing a late 19th century window in the midst of a remodel is like hitting the jackpot! #restorednotflipped #historicarchitecture #vintage #oldwindow #oldwindows

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Sometimes a call from a prospective client brings our attention to a bit of local history and architecture that had previously escaped our notice. Such was the case with the Portland Prairie Methodist Episcopal Church, which is located just off highway 76, 2 miles north of Eitzen Minnesota. We ended up building two new 9/9 windows for the West end of the church, and restored one window on the side. The church was established in 1855 by settlers from Rhode island and Massachusetts, and was built in 1877 by a Mr. Tuttle of New Albin Iowa from plans he obtained from Senator J. McNelly. The church is a good example of Eastlake architecture, which was a decorative style of ornamentation found on Victorian buildings. And while the congregation moved to Caledonia in 1935, there are still services help twice a year, on the 4th of July and on Christmas. If you choose to go, be prepared for vintage experience, since the building has never had electricity and is not currently heated.
#historicpreservation
#thisplacematters
#eastlake

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Passing through Morrison Illinois yesterday I saw a row of houses along the Lincoln Highway that actually got me to turn around and go back for pictures. I think what I liked the best about them was that they all needed work. It's like they're calling out to me...
#oldhouselove

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A few pictures from my trip to Forestville State Park today. Forestville was founded in 1853, and by 1858 there were 100+ inhabitants and over 20 buildings. When the railroad bypassed the community in 1868, Forestville began a slow decline and by 1900, it had been completely abandoned. The state of Minnesota eventually bought the property and now operates it as a living museum set in 1899. It's closed for the season now, but definitely worth the trip when it opens again in the spring.

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In the process of restoring the hardware and fixtures at 409 East Main, we used a finish called Japanning. Historically the finish, consisting of turpentine, linseed oil, and asphaltum, was used to waterproof and protect hardware, tools, and machine parts. Thanks for the prompt @historicdesignconsulting
#japanning #historichardware #oldhouserestoration

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We've come a long ways! #restorationproject #restorednotflipped

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Last day of the open house! Doors are open from 9-3. Come check out the beautifully restored historic home that's been remodeled for contemporary living, without losing the charm you would expect to find in an older home.

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Sneak peek at 409 East Main before the open house this weekend. Thanks to everyone who helped make it possible.

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Last chance to get a finish on the porch floor this year. Thanks to Earth and Flax for the linseed oil and pine tar finish!

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Where is Wadsworth?

Use the map to see a few of the projects we’ve been working on. Choose a marker location for photos and more information.