1635A

This lovely home is representative of several styles of American folk architecture of the 1890s. It stands out clearly from the adjacent properties due to its craftsmanship and detailing. The architect or builder is unknown, but indications are that it was built shortly after the area was subdivided in 1891.

From the sidewalk, all of the stylistic influences are apparent. The façade is clad with wooden details, such as variegated fishscale and diamond shingles, a sunburst design on the sides and an arched false gable at the peak. The front window is part of a square bay with roof reminiscent of stick style. The centerpiece is a beautiful stained glass with faceted crystal center and symmetrical floral design.

The spindle style is evident in the entrance porch. The pillars are turned wood. The roof design has whimsical spindles creating a lacy effect. The porch railing is, however, a simple double rod connected to a cast iron upright at the base of the stairs.

The front door of solid pine has an unusual design of panels and milled moldings. It opens into a small entrance area that was once framed with the bull’s-eye molding, which is evident in the living and dining areas. These areas were once separated by a wooden framework. All the woodwork is painted. Originally, it was probably varnished pine. You should note the large scale of the woodwork - the high floor moldings and wide moldings around the doors and windows. Several doors have been removed from the home and reused in the basement.

The floor-plan of the home is quite spacious with a bedroom off the dining room, another bedroom off the hallway and a third in the back. The bedroom floors are maple and in one an original light fixture is still there.

The little hallway includes a small doorway and step up to the bathroom with claw footed tub. The kitchen shows what was the design of most early kitchens. The sink is newer, replacing the original wall sink on the north wall. There is space for a table as well as stove and refrigerator (earlier an ice box). The back hallway opens to a pantry with pull-chain light and a back bedroom. The kitchen moldings are different from others in the home, with a pedimented cornice above the doors and windows. The ceiling is covered with the original tin panels. In this back room, we see some of the uniqueness of the design of this 1-1/2 story home. First, look through the doorway to the basement. The staircase is tiny and must be navigated like a step ladder. It appears that it may have originally been a trap door, before the basement was created by raising the house and pouring a foundation. This back room is also the entrance to the two second floor bedrooms and large attic space.

Although basements are usually not part of a home tour, the uniqueness of this one should not be missed. In the basement, entered through the outside door, you will see evidence of how the house was built. The timbers you see were once longer and placed on stone footings. Besides holding the center beam of the house, they also support all the exterior walls. Between the timbers are wooden walls and, in several places, extra large windows. When the house was raised up, a concrete floor and partial wall were poured. This unique home is a real treasure in the history of home architecture in Edgewater.