Iconic 'Pink House' on remote causeway that inspired artists for 100 years set to be razed

A nearly 100-year-old double-story house in Massachusetts that has been a favorite for landscape artists is all set to be demolished to the ground. 

The 'Pink House' on Plum Island Turnpike in Newbury was built by Gertrude Cutter for her son and his family back in 1925. 

After going through multiple owners over the years, it was eventually bought by US Fish and Wildlife Service for $375,000 in 2011. 

Situated alone on the marsh along the causeway, the property was initially going to be used as a dormitory for seasonal workers at a nearby Parker River Wildlife Refuge. 

The 'Pink House' on Plum Island Turnpike in Newbury has been a favorite for landscape artists but will now be demolished to the ground after owners have failed to be able to sell it 

But once the FWS discovered structural contamination at the house, particularly asbestos, they decided to abandon plans and build housing somewhere else. 

The federal agency has since attempted to sell the property but since the Pink House is on protected land, the only way it can stay there is through an exchange, according to government law. 

Despite the property's artistic appeal, two exchange deals fell through in 2020 and 2022, according to Matt Hillman, the Parker River Wildlife Refuge manager.

As a result, Parker River Wildlife Refuge officials now say they now have no choice but to remove or demolish the structure this winter. 

'Unfortunately taking care of a house and spending up to $5,000 or more per year for the structure — even if we had the capacity to do so — does not fit with our mission to conserve our endangered species and our habitats,' Hillman told NBC. 

Parker River Wildlife Refuge officials now say they now have no choice but to remove or demolish the structure this winter

But passionate and staunch supporters have begun raising money in an effort to save the property for years

Katy O’Connor Ives, a former state senator for the region further added: 'What I take exception to is that they purchased this land at a huge bargain and they want to preserve land as their mission. 

'We offered you the option to preserve more land. That’s rejected. Now that doesn’t add up.' 

But passionate and staunch supporters have begun raising money in an effort to save the property for years. 

One such local nonprofit named 'Support the Pink House' has been trying to prevent the demolition for about eight years - and was successful in delaying the process in May 2016.   

Their website reads: 'Part of our process includes collaborating with local organizations, area experts and elected officials as we all look into preservation avenues, land swap options, individual occupancy, and other possible solutions.

Left to Right: Save the Pink House Board of Directors Jeff Ackley, Sandy Tilton, Rochelle Joseph, Kelly Page and Alison Odle in front of the Pink House 

'In addition to our goal of saving the house, we have enjoyed seeing the many artists, photographers, and writers that have produced incredible works inspired by The Pink House.

'In addition, local artisans have grown their Pink House themed items and many merchants are featuring them. We appreciate their contribution to the visibility of this effort.'

The nonprofit also claims that they have brought in as many as 17 options to the FWS for the exchange this year but to no avail. 

Rochelle Joseph, President of Support the Pink House noted: 'It’s glaring that they’re not stepping in to work for the people and work out something that should be a win for all. This is the time they’re to rise to that vow that people vote them in for.'