The Lambert House at 128 Chestnut Street is one of the few antebellum houses on West Newton Hill. The first owner, Rev Henry Lambert, was an active abolitionist and leader in civil service reform. The fountain and sculpture by Anne Whitney, on the island garden at the intersection of Chestnut and Highland Streets, is in memory of his wife, Catherine Wigglesworth Porter Lambert. (See more background under the "Learn" tab.)
City Council members from Ward 3 requested that the Newton Historical Commission consider Local Landmark status for this house in April. See May 11 Boston Globe article here. The seller's representatives explained that there were plans to sell to a developer who would demolish the house and subdivide the lot.
UPDATE July 5, 2018
The Newton Historical Commission accepted a request for a continuance at its May meeting. At the June 28th meeting, the NHC voted to name the house a Local Landmark. See July 5 Boston Globe article here.