Aldus Chapin Higgins House, Worcester

Aldus Chapin Higgins House, one of Worcester's most remarkable historic treasures, stands as a testament to early 20th-century architecture and the legacy of its namesake, Aldus Chapin Higgins. Completed in 1923, this stunning residence was designed by the acclaimed architect Grosvenor Atterbury in the Tudor Revival style. Higgins, an esteemed graduate of Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), commissioned the house, which features design elements reminiscent of the Compton Wynyates Castle in Warwickshire, England. This influence is evident in the house's charming, medieval-inspired aesthetics, complete with a quintessential English garden.

Higgins House was more than just a family residence; it was a symbol of the Higgins family's deep ties to WPI and the Worcester community. Aldus's wife, May, who played a pivotal role in maintaining the house's legacy, bequeathed the property to WPI upon her death. Today, it serves as the headquarters for the Office of Alumni Relations, hosting various alumni events and fostering a continued connection between the university and its graduates. The house's transformation into an alumni hub underscores its ongoing importance to WPI, blending historic charm with a vibrant role in the institution's community.

Architecturally, Higgins House is a masterpiece of Tudor Revival style, characterized by its steeply pitched gable roofs, decorative half-timbering, and ornate masonry. The attention to detail in its design and construction has earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places, a designation it received in 1980. The house's interiors and exteriors alike are adorned with period-appropriate features that transport visitors to a bygone era, while the meticulously maintained gardens offer a serene and picturesque setting reminiscent of English country estates.

In addition to its architectural and historical significance, Higgins House continues to be a focal point for WPI's alumni activities, bridging the past and present. Its role as a venue for alumni events ensures that the legacy of Aldus Chapin Higgins and his contributions to WPI are remembered and celebrated.