Anne W. "Pete" Baker (Oct. 20, 1926-Dec. 12, 2011) was a prominent historic preservationist. She worked with building owners, agencies, and historians in the documentation and preservation through dismantling, moving, assembly, and restoration of over 300 17th and 18th century structures in southern New England. Her book "Collecting Houses" recalls how she came to love, understand, and work with these historic houses.
Baker started her own restoration company, A.W. Baker Restorations. She served as consultant for many area preservation groups, including the Newport Restoration Foundation, the Martha's Vineyard Historical and Preservation Society, the Westport Historical Society, and the Waterfront Historic Area League (New Bedford, Massachusetts). She also worked on the documentary film "Old House Soul".
There are no restrictions on access, except that the collection can only be seen by prior appointment.
Researchers are advised that express written permission to reproduce, quote, or otherwise publish any portion or extract from this collection must be obtained from the University Library. Although Roger Williams University has physical ownership of the collection and the materials contained therein, it does not claim literary rights. It is up to the researcher to determine the owners of the literary rights and to obtain any necessary permissions from them.
Anne "Pete" Baker Records, UA 2013.01, Roger Williams University.
The collection includes architectural drawings and related project records for historic restoration work in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Also included are manuscripts and records related to her book and film project.
The collection spans Baker's entire career, and includes documents relating to her restoration business, her work as an educator, and research for numerous articles.
The collection is arranged into three (3) series.
The collection was a gift of Sarah Baker, daughter of Anne "Pete" Baker. The records were received on in September 2012. (Accession number: 2012.018)