Maplehurst was built in 1880 by Edward John Stevens and his wife Margaret Ann Markland with money and land she inherited from her father. It is named after a grove of maples that were planted on the property. The Stevens’ had seven children. Two daughters, Ida and Nellie never married and inherited Maplehurst after their parents died. Ida and Nellie were both beloved local school teachers who shared a passion for botany. Nellie successfully cross-pollinated a Chinese and native holly tree resulting in a tree known for superior qualities of sturdiness and beauty. The Nellie R Stevens Holly was nationally registered in 1952. The original tree still stands on the grounds of this private residence.
The current owners (who also restored Saint Paul’s Church) purchased Maplehurst in 1979. The exterior of the house remains essentially the same as when it was built. A recent addition on the left replaces an older one built by the two sisters and later removed.
Walk back to Morris Street and carefully cross to the other side. Turn left, walk to the next corner and turn to face the head of Town Creek.