The eclectic nature of this house was common in the late Victorian era. The layout of the house, sans the rear addition (attached kitchen, perhaps), is very closely related to the American Foursquare style though dormers aren’t common on this stye of house. The fretwork might be called Folk Victorian or Carpenter Gothic, and is the dominant stylistic element of the structure.
The structure attached at the rear of the house was likely used as a kitchen and may have been moved closer to the house in a remodel.
Ron Weatherford remembers: The farmer who rented this property and lived in the home built a baseball field behind the barn. Players from Swainsboro and surrounding farms came to play on Sunday afternoons back in the 60s. Had many fun afternoons playing baseball. It was a complete baseball field built to specs. His two sons played at Emanuel County Institute. I’m grateful to have had access to this property, which I consider a real landmark.
An old shed still stands on the property, perhaps used as a pump house.
As to the Carpenter Gothic-Folk Victorian detail, award-winning urbanist and town planner Lew Oliver of Whole Town Solutions notes that “Many such jig sawn ornaments were actually catalogue pieces, ordered and distributed by rail. They are likely “folk” or vernacularized versions of their more sophisticated antecedents…the cast iron ornamental porches found in wealthier cities. The house form seems to be related to the two story classical box forms common in Milledgeville and vicinity to the northwest. Window pattern of 6/6 is common in earlier styles…federal and Greek Revival.“
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I lived, at one time, just a couple of miles from this house. It has always been one of my favorites. I have photographed it many times, and intend to paint this picture at some point.
gorgeous!!
1885-1900 era Gingerbread Victorian. However: “On the other hand, terms such as “Painted Ladies” or “gingerbread” may be used to describe certain Victorian buildings, but do not constitute a specific style. The names of architectural styles (as well as their adaptations) varied between countries. Many homes combined the elements of several different styles and are not easily distinguishable as one particular style or another.” (This is from Jim Wubbena, owner of Wubbena Architects in Savannah, GA)
Thanks, Rose. That was another term I was thinking of…architectural styles are overwhelming. Thank goodness, since everything looking alike would be boring 🙂
Behind the barn you photographed on this property, the farmer who rented this property and lived in the home built a baseball field behind the barn. Players from Swainsboro and surrounding farms came to play on Sunday afternoon back in the 60s. Had many fun afternoons playing baseball. It was a complete baseball field built to specs. His two sons played at ECI. “if you build it, they will come”
That is so cool, Ron! It’s a beautiful property. Do you know the historic name for it, i.e. owners at that time? I always try to name houses when I can, for future generations.
What a find, Brian! This Southern Lady deserves restoration! Our home in Hawkinsville (1850s) has identical mantles!! Thanks for your diligence in seeking these hidden treasures.
Charles Stone
Thanks, Charles! The mantels are a treasure for sure…if I haven’t photographed your home I’ll try to next time I’m in Hawkinsville.
A beautiful lady!
The photo you posted today of the house in Candler Co is amazing. Could you please tell me where it is? Thank you. Jody
Many such jig sawn ornaments were actually catalogue pieces, ordered and distributed by rail. They are likely “folk” or vernacularized versions of their more sophisticated antecedents…the cast iron ornamental porches found in wealthier cities.
The house form seems to be related to the two story classical box forms common in Milledgeville and vicinity to the northwest. Window pattern of 6/6 is common in earlier styles…federal and Greek Revival.
Thanks, Lew!
Very interesting, Lew, especially that many of the ornaments were to be found wholesale! Thanks!
What a great piece of architecture. Wonderful photos.