270 Shelburne Street

This spacious Colonial Revival house on its shady lot was built in 1925 for Francis C. Derby and his wife Ada. Francis was proprietor of Francis C. Derby Co., Accountants and Auditors, and of the Brown Memorial Company. The land had belonged to the Prospect Park Company, which was developing the Prospect Parkway neighborhood. The company had ceded this westernmost section to the Mary Fletcher Hospital, which sold lots 85, 86, and 87 to the Derbys. The remainder of the land became the south  side of Clymer Street.

Unlike many houses of its period, the house retains its character : Its clapboard siding,6 over 1 sash double windows, and its paneled front door  with sidelights and covered entryway .The original slate roof, made of a lower grade of slate, was replaced about ten years ago with a better quality of slate.  There is also a separate garage, sized for a 1920’s era car, and an attractive back yard.

 The living room fireplace is Federal style.  Built-in features like bookcases and a dining room china cabinet were popular in this period. There is plenty of living space in this 2 ½ story house. The owner has favored Vermont craftsmanship in her choice of Vermont made cherry furniture and lighting fixtures. The kitchen has been beautifully updated.

The Derbys enjoyed their house for years.  Frank died, and Ada sold the house to George and Esther Ordway in January of 1939. They were president and treasurer of the Vermont Spool and Bobbin Company  on South Champlain  Street.  Widowed, Esther lived in her home for some years before  selling in 1976 to George and Elaine Cox. George was the assistant controller at the Hotel Radisson on Battery Street, and a pilot with the Vermont Air National Guard. In 1987 the Coxes sold to Mark and JoAnn Lafayette. JoAnn is the present owner. 

270 Shelburne Street is the last house on its side of the mainly residential section of the street. Its spacious lot, shaded by tall locust trees, gives it the setting it deserves.

Image credit: Redfin