In doing research at the provincial archives, we have uncovered new information about the Bleak House in Fogo - that its date of construction was between 1826 and 1827, not 1816 as previously believed!
You might wonder why we thought the house was built in 1816. Although we all wish archival research were as easy as an online search, having to go through historical records is no small feat. Finding the information you need depends on whether those records were saved, and, importantly, whether they're in the place you're looking.
Previous researchers knew that the premises where Bleak House is located was purchased by John and Robert Slade in 1816, and that it was built sometime after this purchase. After decades, this understanding of built after turned into built around and finally into built in 1816. And this is why it's important to do regular research and always be searching for new resources that could clarify our understanding of the past.
We found this document called the General Description of Premises at Fogo, belonging to and in the occupation of R (Robert), D (David) and J (John) Slade, from 1834 located at the Rooms.
Below you can see the Dwelling House that was recorded to be built in 1826 - 1827, and below "By DS Esq." (David Slade).
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It describes a Dwelling House that "consists of 3 floors - 1st passage (hallway) and 2 parlours - 2nd chambers - 5 - 3rd Attic, Kitchen Attached."
Its dimensions are also recorded as length x breadth x height to top of roof x height of stud
House: 41 1/2 feet x 31 feet x 23 feet x 16 feet
Kitchen: 20 feet x16 feet x 13 1/2 feet x 8 feet
Since the construction of Bleak House, there have been a number of renovations and additions, so finding an original description of the house is very exciting!
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