After WW I revival of European architecture flourished reaching a peak in the 1920s and 1930s. English revival, while keeping the comforts of the 20th century, is derived from the medieval castles and cottages, Gothic (ex. Westminster Abbey) and Tudor architecture of the 15th through 17th centuries. Constructed in 1917 by William and Cora Balch, the house is in the English Tudor style with its original slate and copper roof. Mr. Balch was an executive at the Faultless Rubber Company, while Cora maintained an active social calendar around Ashland. Mrs. Balch drove a small electric car, the charging plug remains in the garage. When you enter this home you will see the original coat hooks and copper umbrella tray in the entry. This and the majority of the woodwork in the home is cherry wood. The house features a large fireplace in the Count Rumsford style with many niches and built-ins. Opposite the fireplace, in the living room, is a charming built-in sitting area with cabinets for books or china. Across the main hall you will find the music room with its exposed brick, terra cotta tile flooring and book cases. The kitchen features a butler’s pantry that adjoins the spacious dining room. The butler’s pantry also has a sky light on the east wall to let natural light into this interior room. The home is currently owned by Gary and Janis Courtright.
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