INSULATION

Datec. 1840

Dimensions19 x 4 x 2 cm (7 1/2 x 1 9/16 x 13/16 in.)

Object numberHF.2020.21.2

DescriptionA narrow piece of dried moss(?) used for insulation. The sample is dark brown at the bottom edge, moving to a lighter brown along the top. The sample widens in height on the left third.
Narrative

During renovations in 2016 the owner of 15 Hillsborough Street uncovered a wood framed Maritime Vernacular style cottage believed to have been constructed in the 1840s. Prior to 1850, the land on which 15 Hillsborough was built was owned by the Adams family of New London. The cottage has been home to a number of occupants over the years including Master Mariner George Harris in 1850. F. N. Kays purchased the home in 1916 and had it moved to its current location in 1923 to make room for a corner store at 19 Hillsborough (now Black and White Convenience). In 1929 the occupants are listed as being William T. & Nina Cameron.

This sample of organic insulation was removed from between the logs of the house after renovations exposed the original framing. The house is a designated heritage property with the City of Charlottetown.