IPSWICH — About a decade ago, architect Mathew Cummings was looking for a builder for restoration of the circa 1747 Day-Dodge House. He wanted someone who shared his intense, exacting approach to historic construction. He found housewright James Whidden of Ashburnham, who was, if anything, even more determined to cleave to the old ways.

“If you wanted it done right, you called him. If you want it done right away, you didn’t,” Cummings said with a smile.