It's been quite a long time since I have posted in here ... but thought I would share an update on our multi-year project to restore the Bloomer and Nellie Gill House in Galion.

 

In a nutshell, here's what's up with this project.

 

The house was constructed in 1902-1904 for a Galion industrial executive who had friendly ties with Henry Ford (who we have discovered drove the first car in Galion when he came to visit the Gills near the turn of the last century), and family ties to Thomas A. Edison (Edison's second wife was Nellie Gill's childhood friend).

 

The house itself is little short of stunning. It was designed for the Gills by noted Detroit architect Louis Kamper, who had trained with Stanford White with McKim, Mead, and White in New York City. It is strongly influenced by the Michigan Building at the 1901 Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, and is the only known Kamper design to be built in Ohio (the only other non-Michigan commission was in Pennsylvania, which has since burnt).

 

We acquired the Gill House two years ago, and even to this day are continuing to uncover elements of the house's incredible architecture and history. If you ever in the Galion area, let me know and I will give you a tour. Long term, the goal is to restore it for use as a center for community non-profit organizations, weddings, business meetings, etc..

 

Some pictures (out of hundreds I have) are attached.

 

Thomas/presOhio

 

Awesome, I love convoluted house designs full of nooks and crannies. Death to Great Rooms.

OMG looks amazing! I went to high school in Galion and that place was a mess!! Left to rot. There are so many other beautiful homes as well...it's sad!