376 PRAIRIE STREET

HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE

376 Prairie Street was built in 1882 for James Baker for $3,500. James was a retired laborer from Devonshire, England. Around 1887, his niece, Eliza Pearce, moved in with him where she worked at the David C. Cook Publishing Company, however, shortly thereafter, she became Baker's house keeper. James passed away in 1898 and deeded the house to Eliza. She remained in the home for a short period before selling it to John and Kate Peterman and their three daughters. The home has had several owners since it was built. 

ARCHITECTURAL SIGNIFICANCE

376 Prairie Street is considered a Cross Gable Vernacular home with Queen Anne-Free Classic characteristics including its round Tuscan Columns, decorative harp balusters at the porch and the vergeboard at the gables. The home also has subtle details including the crown molding above the windows and doors and the rounded dowel corners found at the cornerboards.

TIMELINE OF PREVIOUS OWNERS

 

Sources: 1986 Heritage Plaque Application; Gifford Park Association - Housewalk  Booklet; Audio: TextAloud