c.1880 New York Fixer Upper With Curved Staircase Under $50K
$49,900
This New York fixer upper looks much earlier than the 1920 build date that the realtor states, so I guessed at 1880. The wonderful curved oak staircase, rounded wall, arched moldings, stone foundation and exterior dentil work speak 1880s or even earlier. The three bedroom, two bath fixer also features hardwood floors, arched, glass-paned pocket doors, and built-ins. All these elements speak of money, and were not usually found in a working class home.
Realtor Comments
Welcome to this inviting 2-story home nestled in the heart of Andover, where character meets potential. With 2, 400 sq. ft. of space, this property is brimming with opportunity and ready for someone to make it their own. Step inside to discover a home full of charm and versatility. The generous living areas provide ample room for creativity and personalization, making it a perfect canvas for your dream renovations. This home is thoughtfully designed with a bathroom on each floor, enhancing both convenience and comfort. Located in the quiet town of Andover, youll enjoy the convenience of nearby amenities while still embracing the tranquility of a charming neighborhood. This home is waiting for someone with a vision and the desire to give it the love and attention it deserves. Dont miss your chance to transform this diamond in the rough into a stunning masterpiece. Schedule your viewing today and start envisioning the life you could build in this wonderful Andover home!
- 3bed
- 2bath
- Circa 1920
Related: New York Farmhouse on 1.5 acres Under $50K
6 Pleasant Ave, Andover, NY 14806 $49,900
If interested in a property, please contact the realtor whose link is provided in the post below, or contact an agent of your own choosing. Independent verification of details and status is recommended.
- Contact Realtor: George Frankford
Brokered by Howard Hanna Professionals – Olean
- Google Map
- Niche
Location of This New York Fixer Upper
Pleasant Street in Andover, New York, is a small street located in the village of Andover, within Allegany County. Andover is a small, rural community in the southwestern part of New York State, not far from the Pennsylvania border. The village has a quaint and quiet atmosphere, typical of small towns in this region.
About Andover, NY:
- History: Andover was first settled in the early 19th century and became an incorporated village in 1864. The village and surrounding area have a history rooted in agriculture, with a strong sense of community.
- Community: Andover is characterized by its small-town charm, with local events and a strong community spirit. Residents often know each other, and there’s a sense of continuity and tradition in village life.
- Architecture: The homes on streets like Pleasant Street typically reflect the architectural styles of small-town America, with a mix of older homes, some dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as well as more modern constructions.
Significance of Pleasant Street:
- Residential Area: Pleasant Street is primarily a residential area, with homes that vary in style and size. It’s lined with trees and maintains a quiet, peaceful atmosphere, true to its name.
- Local Amenities: Like much of Andover, Pleasant Street is within walking distance to local amenities such as small shops, churches, and the village center, depending on its exact location within the village.
Given the small size of Andover, Pleasant Street serves as a typical representation of the village’s overall character: peaceful, close-knit, and deeply rooted in the rural landscape of Allegany County.
Building A Curved Staircase in 1900
Building a curved staircase in 1900 was a complex process that required skilled craftsmanship and careful planning. Here’s an overview of the methods and materials typically used at that time:
1. Design and Planning:
- Blueprints: The design of the curved staircase would begin with detailed blueprints, often hand-drawn by an architect or master carpenter. The design would include precise measurements and curves, accounting for the rise, run, and radius of the staircase.
- Full-Scale Drawings: For complex curves, full-scale drawings or templates might be created on the workshop floor. These drawings helped ensure that every part of the staircase fit together perfectly.
2. Material Selection:
- Wood: High-quality hardwoods such as oak, mahogany, or walnut were commonly used for curved staircases due to their strength and ability to be shaped without breaking. The wood had to be carefully selected to ensure it was free of defects that could cause problems during bending.
- Iron or Steel: Sometimes, wrought iron or steel was used for the framework, especially in more ornate or structurally demanding designs.
3. Forming the Curve:
- Steam Bending: One of the most common techniques for creating curved wooden components was steam bending. Wood was placed in a steam box, where it was heated with steam until it became pliable. The softened wood was then bent around a form or jig to achieve the desired curve.
- Laminating: Another technique involved laminating thin strips of wood together with glue. These strips were clamped around a form to create the curve. Once the glue dried, the laminated piece would hold the curved shape.
- Carving: For intricate curves, some parts might be carved out of solid blocks of wood, particularly for handrails and decorative elements.
4. Construction of the Stringers:
- Curved Stringers: The stringers (the structural supports on either side of the staircase) were typically the most challenging part to create. They were either steam-bent or laminated in layers to follow the curve of the staircase.
- Cutting and Fitting: Each step or tread was carefully cut to fit into the curved stringers. The process required precise measurement and fitting to ensure that the steps were level and evenly spaced.
5. Assembly:
- Joining Techniques: Traditional joinery techniques, such as mortise and tenon or dovetail joints, were used to assemble the staircase. These methods provided strong, durable connections between the various parts.
- Handrails: The handrail, which followed the curve of the staircase, was often one of the most challenging parts to create. It might be built up from several pieces or carved from a single piece of wood, depending on the design.
- Balusters: The balusters (vertical posts supporting the handrail) were individually fitted and secured into the treads and handrail, often with decorative elements added.
6. Finishing:
- Sanding and Smoothing: After assembly, the entire staircase was sanded to smooth out any rough edges or imperfections. This step was critical, especially for the handrail, which needed to be comfortable to the touch.
- Staining and Varnishing: The final step was to stain and varnish the wood, both to enhance its appearance and protect it from wear.
7. Installation:
- Careful Transport: Once built, the staircase might be transported to the site in sections, depending on its size and complexity.
- Final Assembly: On-site, the staircase was assembled and securely attached to the surrounding structure, ensuring it was both safe and aesthetically pleasing.
Building a curved staircase in 1900 was a testament to the skill of the craftsmen involved. Each staircase was essentially a custom piece of furniture, designed to fit the specific space and style of the building in which it was installed.
One Comment
fuzzi
Lovely staircase. But that bathtub faucet…