Check Out This Unique Home in Evansville That is a Local History Gem

We all have those mindless guilty pleasures that we enjoy to waste time. For some people, that could mean scrolling TikTok, for others that could be doodling nonsense drawings on junk mail or scrap pieces of paper. The possibilities are truly endless. One of my favorite ways to waste time (or procrastinate, if I am being truly honest) is to look at interesting homes. I could browse Zillow for hours if I didn't have other responsibilities, looking at all of the different types of homes, and daydreaming about living there. Of course, I love the house that we live in and the pride from the time and money spent on renovating it, but wishful thinking is always fun to indulge in.

Ever Dream of Living in a Castle?

One Evansville home that was recently on the market, but is currently pending, not only stands out for its unique architecture but is also rich with local history. Known as the Abraham Strouse Residence, it is located at 807 SE First Street and was originally constructed in 1897, less than 100 years after the city of Evansville was founded.

The stunning brick home boasts 8,320 square feet with 6 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. I can't even begin to imagine what I would do with all of that space. It is currently on the market for $525,000 which, if you have the money, is quite the steal to feel like you're living in a castle.

According to the listing, the Strouse home was split into a top and bottom duplex, then it was split again into different apartment units.

"Over the years the upstairs and downstairs were split off into four units and a fifth unit upstairs of the carriage house apartment was added (the main floor, units A &B are both on the same meter and could be changed back to a single residence easily)."

For a house of this size and extravagance, it would cost an estimated $2 million to build today.

125 Years of History

So, who exactly is Abraham Strouse and why is his home so important to Evansville history?

Aside from the fact that this home has survived over a century of Evansville advancements and growth, the home belonged to Abraham Strouse (1848-1934), an avid business owner that resided in the city. He is one of 6 brothers who immigrated from Germany to the Evansville area. Throughout his life, he started the notable clothing store, Strouse Bros. with his brother Isaac. He also founded the Evansville Business Association and served as a director of the National City Bank. According to FindaGrave.com, his final resting place is located at Rose Hill Cemetary in Evansville.

The Strouse Bros. clothing store was founded in 1868. After passing through three generations of the Strouse family, it ended its 141 years of business by closing its doors in 2009.

Today, the business still exists in a different format as Strouse Consignments.

A Charm to Match Its History

Not only is the Strouse home rich in history, but it possesses so much of its original charm that makes the home unique inside and out. With beautiful hardwood floors, intricate lighting fixtures, and large windows, the home transforms you back into time while still maintaining modern touches.

The home also features beautiful woodwork that would impress any guest.

Not to mention, tons of built-ins for storage. This one in particular instantly made me think of a cozy reading nook.

The Strouse home also has a charming patio area with an aged stone look ideal for entertaining or drinking a cup of coffee in the morning.

Every room of this home is full of so much aesthetics and charm, that it not only makes for an impressive house to own but also is a special piece of Evansville history.