08/31/2026
For nearly a century, the building today called Pope’s Tavern Museum was known as the Lambeth House, after the Lambeth family who were the residents of the site between 1874 and 1965. But who were the original residents of the house at the corner of Seminary Street and Hermitage Drive?
Documentary and dendrochronology evidence shows the original structure was built about 1839. In March of that year, Florence brickmason James Sample deeded the property that is now Pope’s Tavern Museum to his new son-in-law Eldad Newton—a native of Skaneateles, New York. Eldad and Polly Sample Newton soon welcomed a baby girl, Parthenia, to the family. James Sample, a homebuilder and brickyard owner who designed and constructed many of Florence’s early homes, likely constructed the building for Eldad, Polly, and Parthenia. Sample also helped to finance a host of furnishings for the young couple’s new home including a fortepiano, secretary desk, and cradle.
Tragically, what should have been the first chapter in a long happy life was instead the prelude to an untimely end. Parthenia, Eldad, and Polly Newton all died within weeks of each other in the summer of 1840. The historic record doesn’t provide a reason, but it could have been a waterborne illness, such as typhoid, that proliferated in the summer time. The new house became a scene of heartbreak and mourning.
Eldad died intestate with outstanding debts. His father-in-law, James Sample, became administrator of his estate. Even after selling all his property, the amount was insufficient to cover his debts. Sample therefore petitioned the court to auction Newton’s real estate—including the house now known as Pope’s Tavern Museum. From Sample’s petition, the first written record of a brick house on the property is preserved.
Stop by Pope's Tavern to learn more about the people lived at this historical landmark!
