Fans of historic architecture are accustomed to the sad sight of the dilapidated Longfield property on Hope Street, just north of the Bristol County Medical Center. The house has appeared on the verge of collapse for years, with each transfer of ownership bringing renewed hope for the salvation of the National Register home.

Finally, there is activity on site. Work has commenced, but to passersby, that work may appear to be well beyond the scope of what was approved by the town. But that’s an illusion — there are actually two separate development projects happening side-by-side.

Built in 1848 in the American Wooden Gothic Revival style, Longfield's first owners were Charles Dana Gibson and his wife Abby deWolf, grandparents of the notable graphic artist. Abby deWolf was the granddaughter William deWolf who, along with his brothers, made a fortune in the slave trade during the latter half of the 18th century. The house was designed by Russell Warren, and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

After languishing on the market for years, the property was sold to a developer with a plan to create a total of 10 dwelling units, with two in the existing house and eight more in new structures set off a new one-way street along the eastern and southern boundaries of the property. The proposed plan was designed by local architect John Lusk, whose portfolio includes notable historic preservation projects of structures including Seven Oaks and the Bristol Art Museum.

While that plan proceeds, much of the current activity on the site is actually part of a Knowlton Court, a subdivision of four house lots in addition to the Knowlton house, which sits behind Longfield, set back from the road. The Knowlton Court plans were determined to be compliant with Bristol’s Comprehensive Community Plan and in compliance with the Zoning Ordinance in Nov. 2021.