This property was once part of the Locke estate at 70 Elm St. The 4 acre 132 1/2 rod lot was sold by Annie H. Locke, wife of Samuel B. Locke, to John W. Richardson on Oct. 11, 1884. The vacant parcel contained 4 acres 132 1/2 rods of land. Annie Locke also sold a 3 acre lot, adjoining this parcel to the east, on the same day to Ira C. Randall who built his home at 121 Elm.

John W. Richardson was a carpenter and builder and built the home. The 1900 Census has John W. b. Feb. 1861, wife Rose B. b. Aug. 1859 in NH and daughter Ethel F. b. Oct. 1887. Richardson's business was located at 6A Park St. In 1904 Richardson sells the property to John Hutchins of Lawrence, MA and wife Sarah. In 1909 John sell one undivided half of the property to Carey (Carrie) Norton, wife of Clare N. Norton As the two families share the home, Carrie must be the Hutchins daughter. John & Carrie jointly take a mortgage on the home. In 1915 John sells his half of the property to Clare Norton. Clare was the wire chief for New England Telephone & Telegraph Co. Norton and Hutchins continued to reside together. Clare L. died on Dec. 3, 1943. Carrie Norton continued to live in the home, selling to William H. & Marylin R. Ash, Jr. on Sept. 11, 1961.

117 Elm St. is now owned by Albert and Deborah Kyle. The Preservation Commission committee awarded a certificate of appreciation for exterior preservation for their New England Vernacular, late 19th century farmhouse. This quiet house is beautifully sited away from Elm Street with a sweeping rear yard, large trees and a separate contemporary barn. Farmhouses of this type can still be seen throughout New England. It is a simple 3/4 Federal style with Italianate decoration and window style. The Committee was impressed with how well the home has been maintained. Most important, its additions are in scale with the original structure and do not detract from its simplicity.