369 South Union Street

This asymmetrical shingle style house was built in 1898 for Frank Boynton, who ran Fletcher and Boynton’s shoe store at 84 Church Street. Other well-known Burlingtonians who have called this place home: Patrick McAuliffe , who owned McAuliffe Paper Company, and Stuart  “Red” Martin of WCAX.  The house is part of the South Union Street Historic District, and has been featured on a previous Preservation Burlington Homes Tour.

The present owners, Greg and Megan Epler-Wood, have always been conscious of the historical and esthetic value of their home; as a former neighbor, I could see the constant work it took to maintain it. Greg in particular has worked to keep the house and gardens beautiful.

More than this, the Epler-Woods are deeply conscious of climate change and the need to maximize energy efficiency. Like many other houses in the neighborhood, their house is large and rambling. Greg has been increasing the insulation over the years. 2019 marked the start of a big project to improve the house’s energy scores. The roof, originally slate, had been replaced with asphalt in the 1950’s. and now needed another replacement. It is a steep roof, with complex surfaces. Greg worked with the contractor, Scott Martin, in laying the new tile. Replacing the roof made it possible to increase the insulation so that all gaps in the area were closed This has made about a 20% improvement in their energy bills. Their neighbors were interested!  The test came when the furnace was closed for repairs on a 25 degree day. With only the use of their ground floor efficient wood stove, the heat was adequate throughout the house within two hours.

The Epler-Woods are hopeful that their ongoing efforts to increase the energy efficiency of their home will encourage their neighbors and other homeowners. Preservation Burlington is pleased to present to them our Spirit of Preservation Award.

Image credit: Zillow