Old Dabney family summer house and wine press

Category: Civil Architecture > Ensemble

District: Açores > Horta > Horta > Angústias

Location

Located in the parish of Angústias, one of Horta's historic neighborhoods, this old property is integrated into the city's urban fabric. Its position allows for an observation of the relationship between urban development and the preservation of Faial's historical heritage, inviting reflection on the evolution of settlement and social life on the island.

The Legacy of the Dabney Family

The property is intrinsically linked to the Dabney family, a lineage with a strong impact on the history and development of Faial, particularly during the 19th century. Known for their influence in commercial and diplomatic relations, especially as American consuls in Horta, the Dabneys left a lasting mark on the island. This house and its winepress are testaments to the daily life and economic activities of one of the most prominent families in the region.

The Summer House and the Winepress

This property consists of an old summer house, used for the family's leisure and rest periods, and a winepress. The presence of the winepress in the same space underscores the importance of agricultural activity, particularly wine production, for the local economy in the past, and how residences were integrated with rural operations. The architecture reflects the style of homes from that era, providing a glimpse into the way of life and economic practices of yesteryear in Horta.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt