Historic Augusta house to be moved across Memorial Circle

Relocation project aims to save 3-story building from demolition for bank expansion

Apr. 2, 2026 at 5:03am

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A large historic house in Augusta, Maine is set to be moved about a third of a mile to a new location, avoiding demolition for a bank expansion project. Developer Richard Parkhurst has finalized agreements, hired contractors, and is seeking city permits, including a temporary closure of Memorial Circle, with the goal of moving the 3-story building in late May.

Why it matters

The relocation of this historic house in downtown Augusta preserves an important piece of the city's architectural heritage that would have otherwise been lost to development. It also highlights the challenges and complexities involved in moving large historic structures to new sites, requiring coordination between the developer, city officials, and the community.

The details

The house at 15 Western Ave. in Augusta is being moved about a third of a mile to Chandler Street, avoiding demolition for an expansion project by Kennebec Savings Bank. Developer Richard Parkhurst has finalized agreements, hired contractors, and is seeking city permits, including a temporary closure of Memorial Circle, with the goal of moving the 3-story building in late May.

  • The house is set to be moved in late May.
  • Parkhurst is seeking city permits, including a temporary closure of Memorial Circle, to facilitate the move.

The players

Richard Parkhurst

The developer who has finalized agreements and hired contractors to oversee the relocation of the historic house.

Kennebec Savings Bank

The bank that had planned an expansion project that would have required the demolition of the historic house.

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What they’re saying

“A large historic house at 15 Western Ave. in Augusta is set to be moved about a third of a mile to Chandler Street, avoiding demolition for a bank expansion.”

— Patch AM Team, Author

What’s next

The developer is seeking city permits, including a temporary closure of Memorial Circle, to facilitate the move of the historic house in late May.

The takeaway

The relocation of this historic Augusta house highlights the importance of preserving the city's architectural heritage and the challenges involved in moving large historic structures to new sites. It also demonstrates the collaborative efforts between developers, city officials, and the community to find creative solutions that balance progress and preservation.