The J. T. Penn House, a charming Craftsman bungalow at 910 Magnolia Street, might have a new lease on life!
The two-story frame residence was constructed between 1915 and 1920 by Penn, the vice-president of Southern Atlantic Lumber Company. It features extraordinary Craftsman details, including post-on-brick-pier porch supports, multiple-pane upper window sashes, unusual exposed stickwork in the dormer gable, and exposed rafter tails.
In spite of its classic architectural style, the house has gained attention recently for its poor condition within one of the city’s most successful historic district. In fact, the property has been the subject of a petition by neighbors requesting city action to clean up the house and grounds. As part of a larger issue in Greensboro of derelict houses in historic districts, the house made the front cover of Preservation Greensboro’s Landmarks Newsmagazine in the summer of 2009 as one of our Treasured Places Watch List properties.
Recently, the Preservation Greensboro Development Fund was able to enter into an agreement with the property’s owners to seek a buyer for the house. Through the Development Fund, any buyers would be required through covenants to repair the structure in accordance with the Secretary of Interiors Standards. All future repairs and improvements to the house would need to be approved by the Development Fund.
Details are still being determined regarding the sale of the house. Stay tuned to this blog and our Facebook page for information!
Written by Benjamin Briggs
Preservation Greensboro contributes a key role in the growth of Greensboro’s economy and vitality through tourism, reinvestment, and place-making. With diverse initiatives that help you to restore, explore, and connect with your community, Preservation Greensboro provides a voice for revitalization, improved quality of life, and conservation of historic resources for future generations. Are you a member yet? Learn more about Greensboro’s only member-supported preservation organization by exploring our website or joining our Facebook page. Please join us today!
The roofing design of the house is a “head-turner”. The architecture is very inspiring that even modern architecture look up to it. It would really be a great lose if this would not be restored. Designs like these are the pillars of our modern architecture today.
A house like this should be maintained well because its deteriorating ground quality might yield sooner or later. It’s a good thing that the owner is willing to look for a buyer to have it repaired. This is a once-in-a-lifetime structure that should be given importance. 🙂