Mastin House

The story

Behind the sketch.

The Mastin House began around 1823–1824 as a restrained Federal residence, then received a fashionable Italianate makeover in the 1850s. Wide bracketed eaves, arched window hoods, and a rooftop cupola gave the older house a much more romantic silhouette. On the west service wing, a rare crow-step brick gable adds an almost European flourish. The house is a wonderful example of architectural ambition by addition. Instead of replacing an unfashionable older home, its owners dressed it in the latest style, leaving both periods visible. It is part early republic, part Victorian showpiece, and entirely Huntsville.

Neighborhood

Twickenham

Book location

Page 34