| Additional Information: | This two and one half story Queen Anne styled residence features a cross shaped plan configuraiton, a sandstone foundation, a brick exterior, a stone and metal trim, and metal covered gabled roofs. These roofs intersect to form a cross or a crucifix shaped pattern, echoing the design of the plan configuration. The open gable ends are distinguished by small paired rectangular windows and pent roofs, which form pedimented gables. Centered on the facade is a two story, three-sided, bay. It is sided in metal and capped by a truncated hip roof. The windows on the bay have wooden frames, two-over-two lights and projecting lintels. Many other windows throughout the dwelling have brick lintels and stone sills. The windows on the first story have leaded glass accents. Also present on the house is colored glass window. The front porch has an open design, with a mansardic roof and a centered pedimented gable heralding the main entrance. Turned columns, brackets and spindles further embellish this porch. A c. 1898 photograph shows the house has remained essentially the same, including the metal roof, but the porch was painted multiple colors. A one story rear addition was built on an unspecified date. The residence, which is in good condition, is related to a barn (SK 46/15), which is located to the north on the property.
Architectural/Engineering Significance:
Although the house has retained its integrity, it has no outstanding design characteristis to give it architctural significance.
Historical Background:
Allen S. Brooks was born in Peterboro, Madison County, New York in 1842 and came to Reedsburg with his parents in 1856. He enlisted in the service in 1863 and was discharged in 1865. He then moved to Jackson, MN until 1875 when he returned to Reedsburg and opened a grocery and restaurant. This became the opera house (now gone). He also built a business block next to this (also now gone). (See Bib. Ref. A). He leased and finally sold the opea hall. He was retired by 1902. (See Bib. Ref. C). Around 1911, Brooks built another house at 135 North Park Street. (SK 23/14).
Brooks was associated with the house at 311 Main Street from 1895 to 1902. (See Bib. Ref. A, B, C). |
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