Kraft Group, Foxboro Agree To Delay Historic House's Demolition

FOXBOROUGH, MA — The town's historical commission voted for a six-month delay for the demolition of the 215-year-old Amos Morse house, now owned by the Kraft Group. This historic home in the early 1800s, hosted a small business responsible for helping the straw hat industry become an economic force for Foxborough into the 20th century.

The historical commission and the Kraft Group met at a public hearing on Thursday, but did not see eye-to-eye on what to do with the house.

On Dec. 8, the historical commission voted to declare the Amos Morse House "historically significant." At most this action can delay the house's demolition, but doesn't protect it further.

"We feel it is important as part of the whole Morse family history in the area, as well as the fact that it was an early part of Foxborough’s straw hat industry,"Mark Ferensik, chair of the Foxborough Historical Commission said. Owned by the Morse family for over 175 years, it was restored and earned National Register of Historic Places status... There are many original details, wainscoting, mantles, fireplaces, hardware etc. which make this very special. As far as compromise we are hopeful."

Both sides expressed a desire to continue discussions over the next six months.

Because of the house's current condition, the Kraft Group believes the house is a danger to the public, Jeremie Smith, a Kraft Group spokesman said. The Kraft Group said its willing to consider other ways to honor the Amos Morse house, such as a park on the property.

"One idea that we briefly discussed at the meeting was the opportunity to remove the house and transform the property temporarily into a park that can be used as a community asset while paying tribute to the historical significance of Amos Morse and the house...," Smith told Patch. "It could be a thing for the community. We could potentially partner with the scouts and other youth and student programs."

According to Smith, the park idea was a preliminary suggestion. He said the Kraft Group hopes to work with the town over the next six months and explore other options as well.

The Kraft Group also offered to give the house away if the new owner is willing to considering relocating it.

Photo courtesy of the Foxborough Historical Commission