Burlington land records show that Dan Lyon owned this property in 1863. It was purchased by T. Russell in 1865 and he lived there until the late 1890's.1 The 1869 map shows this as the residence of P. Cosgriff and the house next door as that of T. Russell. However, the 1890 map shows this as the T. Russell home and the house next door as that of P. Cosgriff. Since the Russell family occupied this house for at least fifty years under the current street number, it is my feeling that the Beer's Atlas accidentally switched the residents of 437 and 445 South Union Street. In the 1865 city directory T. Russell is listed, but no address is given. In 1867-68 Russell's address is Union Street south of Spruce. Several Russells are listed at this address prior to 1930. Early Russells such as Thomas and John were employed by Shepard & Davis and also Skilling's, Whitneys & Barnes Lumber. From as early as 1895 the owner of this house was Patrick J. Russell. Patrick Russell was a policeman who served as chief from as early as 1910 until 1930. In 1940 the Russells are no longer listed as occupants.2
(1)Vermont Historic Sites & Structures Survey (2) Burlington City Directories