721 N 4TH ST

721 N 4TH ST

Dodge

Watertown

1873

1974

funeral home

Italianate

Cream Brick

No

Another map code for this building is DO 1/25, found on DOT Watertown. This two story house, designed in the Italianate style, features a square shaped plan configuration, a brick foundation, a cream brick exterior, a wood and brick trim and a shingled hip roof. This low pitched hip roof is distinguished by wide overhanging eaves. Shaped wooden window heads accent the multi-paned windows in the upper story. These windows flank a triple arched Paladian style window which is detailed with an articulated arch surround. A decked porch supported by paired and square columns shelters the projecting and sidelighted entrance. A small gable roofed extension on the north elevation, an addition, multiple lights in the upper story and a decked porch cochere with paired square pilasters further characterize the dwelling. The residence is in good condition. Chrisitian Schmutzler built this house in 1873. (See Bib. Ref. A). The original Italianate style of the house has been altered by the addition of the two-story cream brick south wing and the removal of some of the original architectural details. Architectural/Engineering Significance: The Christian Schmutzler house is not architecturally signifincant because of the extensive alteration of the exterior appearance. However, sufficient architectural character remains so that the Schmutzler house can meet the requirements of the National Register for historical significance. Also, the Schmutzler house is important as an example of the work of the locally prominent builder, Christian Schmutzler. Historical Background: This house was the home of not only Christian Schmutzler, a pioneer carpenter and builder, from about 1873 to about 1902, but also of his son Edward Schmutzler, an important merchant, from about 1902 to at least 1930. (See Bib. Ref. B). Christian Schmutzler was a German immigrant who achieved success as a carpenter and builder. The house at 721 North Fourth Street was built in 1873 by Christian Schmutzler (see Bib. Ref. A); the structure stands as testimony to his carpentry and building skills. In 1879, his son Edward joined with Carles and Frank Nowack in their furniture and undertaking business. Eventually Schmutzler became sole owner of this business and in 1910 he operated it with Harry Krier. The firm was incorporated in 1912 and in 1919 it was operated by Oscar Schmutzler. While the furniture business of the firm has declined in the twentieth century, Schmutzlers is still in business today as a large funeral home. (See Bib. Ref. C). Historical Significance: This house is significant for local history under National Register criteria A and B because it is associated with Christian Schmutzler and Edward Schmutzler, and because it continues to be the site of the family business in the late twentieth century. As a pioneer carpenter and builder, Christian Schmutzler made a physical contribution to the growth and development of the community. His son Edward also contributed to the growth and development of commercial activity in Watertown when he took a small furniture business and made it into a large and sucessful furniture store and furneral home. For this reason the Schmutzlers are significant persons in retail commerce, and the house they occupied for a long time is also significant for local history. (See Bib. Ref. C). Since the house has become the base for the family business in recent years, it remains significant and the best resource associated with this family and their business in the community.

A. Architectural description only: Evelyn Ruddick Rose, Our Heritage of Homes (Watertown Historical Society, 1980), p. 36. B. Watertown City Directories, 1866-1930, Watertown Wisconsin Public Library. C. Watertown, Wisconsin Centennial 1854-1954, Watertown: Jansky Printing Co., 1954, p. 73.

Not Listed

Yes