Discover the architectural themes, quirks and legends of this opulent Victorian mansion built in the late 19th century by an affluent footwear merchant.
Lapham-Patterson House is a shining example of the creativity, grandeur and originality of Victorian-era architecture. It’s also a landmark shrouded in mystery and tragedy. Join a guided tour of Lapham-Patterson House to learn about its creator, his inspirations, life story and family misfortune. Built between 1884 and 1885, the house was declared Thomasville’s first National Historic Landmark in 1975.
Take your time to admire the house’s bright yellow exterior and its imposing entrance, which is enhanced by two-story-tall columns. The 24 exterior doors and floor-to-ceiling windows result from the fear of fire that owner Charles Lapham had. Lapham had survived the 1871 Great Chicago Fire and thus designed his winter house with numerous escape routes. Spot delicate ornamentation such as fish-scale shingles and ornate porch rails.
Inside, note that everything from the door fixtures to the heart pine flooring and stained-glass windows is original. A striking feature is the central fireplace, which has a double flue chimney that you can walk between as you climb the stairs to the second floor. Rainbows of light illuminate the house as the sun’s rays filter through colorful windows.
Listen to the family history of Lapham and his wife, Emma. They lived here for a decade. Of their five children, one passed away and two were put into outside care. Ironically, Emma died in a house fire after moving to Arizona. Look for a portrait of Charles beside Emma, who is portrayed as a spirit, with the women’s rights activist Lucretia Mott.
Another curiosity is the bargeboard that hangs from the exterior roof. Visit during the spring and autumn equinoxes to see how it produces the image of a horned bull-like animal. Rumors suggest that the animal is Mrs. O’Leary’s cow, the folkloric cause of the Great Chicago Fire.
The house-museum is a short walk from Downtown Thomasville. Park on the street outside the house. Nearby is Thomas County Museum of History, where you can take guided tours of relocated historic buildings.
There is a fee for admission to Lapham-Patterson House. It is open Fridays and Saturdays, except when it hosts private functions.
