W. H. Goulding House, Worcester

The W. H. Goulding House, built sometime before 1849, is a notable example of Greek Revival architecture. Its architectural features include a gabled roof, a clapboarded exterior, and a front facade that is three bays wide. The entrance is in the leftmost bay, adorned with sidelight windows and pilasters, and topped by a transom window. A front porch, supported by fluted Doric columns, extends across the entire facade, and the corners of the building feature paneled pilasters that rise to an entablature, showcasing the Greek Revival style's characteristic details.

The house was originally constructed at 26 Harvard Street between 1847 and 1849 for Henry Goulding, a prominent local industrialist. Goulding owned some of Worcester's largest industrial enterprises and was a founder of the Worcester Mechanics' Association, a key organization in the city's industrial development. In 1850, Goulding moved the house to its present location to make way for a more opulent Italianate-style residence, reflecting the evolving architectural tastes of the period. Following the move, Goulding sold the house, which has since remained a significant piece of Worcester's architectural heritage.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980, the W. H. Goulding House has retained its historical and architectural integrity. The elongated ground floor windows on the front facade and the classic Greek Revival elements, such as the fluted Doric columns and paneled pilasters, contribute to its distinction as a well-preserved example of this architectural style. The house's relocation in 1850 underscores the dynamic nature of urban development in 19th-century Worcester and the aspirations of its influential residents.