Newbury, Massachusetts

The Pink House, situated at 60 Plum Island Turnpike in Newbury, Massachusetts, stands as a unique and storied landmark. It's a one-of-a-kind spite house.

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@kristine.venturing (Instagram)

About This Location

The Pink House, situated at 60 Plum Island Turnpike in Newbury, Massachusetts, stands as a unique and storied landmark near Plum Island, attracting attention for its remarkable beauty, intriguing history, and cultural significance. Built in 1925, the house has woven itself into the fabric of local lore, becoming a subject of fascination for locals, visitors, and tourists alike.

The allure of The Pink House extends beyond its physical presence; it is embedded in a local urban legend that adds an extra layer of fascination. According to the narrative, the house's origin is rooted in a divorce settlement where the wife sought an exact replica of their Newburyport home. The catch was that she didn't specify the location. Seizing the opportunity, the husband, in an act of supposed spite, constructed the home on the outskirts of town in the Great Marsh, complete with saltwater plumbing. The house, therefore, often finds itself cited as an example of a spite home.

The house, characterized by its distinctive pink hue, was a residence for several decades, witnessing the ebb and flow of inhabitants until the early 2000s. In 2011, it transitioned from private ownership to being under the custodianship of the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, having been sold for $375,000. The Pink House's iconic presence has made it a local landmark, becoming the focus of numerous photographs and paintings that capture its charm and character.

In the autumn of 2015, a small Steering Committee was established with the immediate objective of ensuring the structural integrity of The Pink House and preventing its scheduled demolition in May 2016. Through consistent communication with the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge and the invaluable assistance of the Federal Delegation—specifically, the offices of Senator Warren, Senator Markey, and Congressman Moulton—the committee successfully secured a halt to the demolition. Subsequently, their efforts shifted towards finding a sustainable solution, leading to the evolution of the committee into the nonprofit organization Support The Pink House, recognized under section 501(c)(3), maintaining a steadfast commitment to the mission of preserving The Pink House.

The organization continually expands its community engagement through various channels, including social media, the sale of art and window stickers, networking with local merchants, conducting petition drives, and organizing events. These initiatives have generated substantial support for the goal of safeguarding this beloved structure. Beyond their primary objective of saving the house, they take delight in the diverse array of artists, photographers, and writers who have produced remarkable works inspired by The Pink House. Local artisans have also developed Pink House-themed items, prominently featured by many merchants, contributing significantly to the visibility of this preservation effort.

The Pink House has become a haven for birders, attracting a range of species from the Snowy Owl to Bald Eagles and various migrating flocks, often perching on the roof, cupola, and chimney. Consequently, The Pink House serves as a magnet for an increasing number of visitors to the area, subsequently boosting economic activity as they shop, dine, and lodge, particularly during the off-season. The multifaceted efforts of Support The Pink House not only aim to rescue a historic landmark but also foster a vibrant and supportive community around this cultural icon.

Access to The Pink House is limited, as it is not open to the public. There is no official parking lot designated for the house. Most enthusiasts and explorers resort to pulling over on the side of the road or utilizing nearby establishments for parking, walking over to catch a glimpse of this distinctive structure. However, it is crucial to respect the privacy of the property and not attempt to approach the house closely. The Pink House, with its rosy exterior and intriguing history, remains a symbol of Plum Island's charm and mystery.

Location Features

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Locations

Address:
60 Plum Island Turnpike, Newbury, Massachusetts

GPS Coordinates:
42.796330, -70.830206
Directions to location:
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Directions to parking area:
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Parking Notes:
There is no official parking lot for the house since it is not open to the public. Most explorers will pull over on the side of the road or park at a nearby establishments and walk over to view The Pink House.

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