Tucked away on the edge of town sits a 1916 brick Craftsman home, a once-stately residence now waiting to shine again.
This “diamond in the rough” holds all the charm, beauty, and soul of early 20th-century American architecture—its character hiding just beneath a layer of dust.
With four bedrooms, a sleeping porch, and nearly half an acre of land, this house invites someone with vision to bring it back to life and restore the elegance it once displayed with pride.
Built during the height of the American Craftsman movement, the home showcases all the distinctive qualities that made this style beloved for generations: solid craftsmanship, artistic woodwork, and an appreciation for natural materials.
From the moment you step onto the broad front porch with its sturdy brick columns and double-door entrance, you sense the thought and skill that went into every detail.
Though time has passed, the bones of this house remain strong, ready to welcome another century of life.
The grand staircase greets visitors immediately upon entry—a centerpiece of finely carved wood that captures the eye and hints at the home’s original sophistication.
The woodwork throughout is exceptional: rich trim, window seats, built-in shelving, and even a dining room buffet cabinet that reflects a bygone era of craftsmanship.
These features weren’t just decorative; they were expressions of permanence and pride, built to be both beautiful and useful.
The living room, anchored by a stately fireplace, would have once been the family’s gathering place—a warm heart of the home during Iowa’s cold winters.
Above, coffered ceilings and detailed light fixtures add architectural interest, drawing the eye upward and giving a sense of height and grandeur.
Every room seems to hold a story, every turn of the staircase a glimpse into another time when homes were made by hand, not by machine.
The formal dining room speaks of elegance and hospitality, with built-in features that make entertaining effortless.
Even now, beneath years of wear, it’s easy to imagine the room filled with laughter, the warm glow of lamplight, and the soft crackle of the fire nearby.
The flow of the home, from the front parlor to the dining area and into the kitchen, reflects a layout designed for family life and comfort.
Upstairs, the four spacious bedrooms reveal more of the home’s early 1900s charm.
The sleeping porch, a common feature of homes from this era, offers an airy retreat that would have been used for warm summer nights—when the breeze through the screens provided natural cooling long before air conditioning existed.
The attic, large and full of potential, awaits transformation into a studio, office, or quiet hideaway beneath the rafters.
According to local legend, the home was built by a banker for his family, a story that fits perfectly with the level of detail and care seen in the design.
No expense was spared in creating a residence that balanced comfort with refinement.
Even after decades, the original materials remain—wood moldings, hardwood floors, and heavy doors that close with a satisfying weight.
These details are the soul of a true Craftsman home, meant to last through generations.
Outside, the property extends across nearly half an acre, offering both space and privacy.
An old apple tree still stands in the yard—a small but meaningful reminder of the home’s long history and the families that once tended it.
Located on the edge of town, the setting combines the peace of the countryside with the convenience of nearby amenities, making it ideal for someone seeking both solitude and community.
While the home is currently not livable and has no active utilities, its potential is unmistakable.
With care, vision, and dedication, this historic house could once again reflect the beauty and grace it displayed more than a century ago.
It’s a project for a dreamer—someone who can see past peeling paint and fallen plaster to the enduring artistry beneath.
For those who value authentic craftsmanship, historic character, and the chance to preserve a piece of Iowa’s architectural legacy, this 1916 Craftsman is more than a fixer-upper—it’s a work of art waiting for its next chapter.
Within its weathered walls lies the promise of revival, the quiet whisper of history, and the opportunity to turn an overlooked gem into something truly extraordinary.
Inside Craftsman Home
