The Before and After of a George F. Barber Victorian
OHU50K Notes
The Before and After. This George F. Barber designed home was first featured in 2015 when it was listed at $50K. It sold in August 2021 for $29,500, was renovated, and is back on the market for $189,000. BEFORE photos are at the top half of the page, and AFTER photos at the bottom half of the page. What do you think? The Queen Anne design was #65 from the first edition of Barber’s plan book, “New Model Dwellings”.
BEFORE
History
A decade after marrying, this home was built for liveryman George B. Steele and his wife Harriet Geneva Dale Steele, who held the deed. Hattie, as she was known, was the daughter of James M. Dale, a very successful local farmer who owned over 1300 acres. Hattie and George married in 1885 and they raised two daughters, Jessie Opal and Charlotte Dale.
Sometime before 1910, Hattie built a large Roller Skating Rink at the edge of town which her husband ran for a while. By 1920, she and George ran an Automobile Garage. Apparently, business and marriage did not work out, because the couple were subsequently divorced. After her daughters left the nest, Hattie rented out a portion of the house to a bank cashier who paid $30 rent. The house in 1930 was valued at $8000.
- 5bed
- 3bath
- 3,678sqft
- 8,135sqft lot
- Year Built 1895
- Google Map
- Property Listing
- Realtor: Greg Fenton
Brokered by: Weber Real Estate
514 W State St, Centerville, IA 52544
REALTOR COMMENTS
2015 Photos
AFTER – Now for sale for $189,000
The large covered, curved front porch leads into a grand entry with elaborate fretwork. Take a step back in time to view leaded glass windows, bay window with steam-bent bench seating, original hardwood floors throughout, tiled kitchen, baths, and oversized porcelain tiled sunroom. The large dining room with original built-in, spacious front parlor, and reception hall entry is the perfect space for family, or business. Kitchen has new Italian, Spanish, & Brazilian tile; a nod to world travel influences of the Victorian era. Enjoy the enclosed side porch, fireside patio with accent lighting, perfect for entertaining. Modern upgrades include all new mechanicals, new HVAC with central air, updated electrical panel, new PEX plumbing throughout. Too many updates to list!
514 W State St, Centerville, IA 52544. $189,000
Family History
A decade after marrying, this home was built for liveryman George B. Steele and his wife Harriet Geneva Dale Steele, who held the deed. Hattie, as she was known, was the daughter of James M. Dale, a very successful local farmer who owned over 1300 acres. Hattie and George married in 1885 and they raised two daughters, Jessie Opal and Charlotte Dale.
Sometime before 1910, Hattie built a large Roller Skating Rink at the edge of town which her husband ran for a while. By 1920, she and George ran an Automobile Garage. Apparently, business and marriage did not work out, because the couple were subsequently divorced. After her daughters left the nest, Hattie rented out a portion of the house to a bank cashier who paid $30 rent. The house in 1930 was valued at $8000.
Town
Centerville is known as the “City of Energy” due to its history in coal mining and the presence of a large coal-fired power plant. It is situated in southern Iowa, near the border with Missouri. The city is surrounded by picturesque countryside and offers various recreational opportunities, such as fishing, boating, and hiking.
Centerville has a rich history and is home to several historic sites and landmarks. For example, the Appanoose County Courthouse, built in 1903, is an architectural gem that attracts visitors. The town also hosts events such as the Pancake Day celebration, which has been a tradition since 1949 and includes a parade and pancake flipping contest.
In terms of amenities, Centerville offers a range of services, including schools, healthcare facilities, shopping centers, and dining options. The city strives to provide a high quality of life for its residents and has invested in infrastructure and community development projects.
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