Not platted until 1886, the town of Haigler, Nebraska, is an unlikely spot to find a house built in the Gothic Revival style. Most popular in the mid-19th century, the romantic style was never commonplace anywhere in Nebraska for houses; it is especially surprising to find an example of it in the extreme southwest corner of the state. However, many architectural styles did persist in rural areas long after having lost popularity elsewhere.
Defining characteristics include the steeply pitched roof and lacy ornamental bargeboard. The pair of gables on the side (second photo) enhance the Gothic character. The current windows appear to be replacements as they are single-paned double-hung units. Original windows would most likely have had two or four panes per sash. The pedimented window frames are not typical of the style and show a subtle transition to the Italianate style. Ironically, the Italianate style was at the time also falling out of fashion in all but rural areas. The existing porch also appears to have been modified; the simple square posts are a bit plain given the gable elaboration above.
Exterior doors are fitted with transoms; a bay window adds character as do the delightful roof finials.
Another bay window is found on the side.
Very cool find. It is interesting to see cases where a style long out of favor has been built.
Our old neighborhood in Omaha had two new homes built last year that were split-entry. They were nearly identical to ones built in 1970. I found it rather odd.
That is odd… split entries are not currently popular with home buyers. They will no doubt create confusion for some future architectural historian!
Gothic Revival! Love it. The house looks well taken care of, at least. The white trim paint is crisp!
I agree… and the red roof is starting to grow on me! The metal roof may not be historically correct for this particular house, but such a roof will protect it far better and longer than mere asphalt shingles. So, from a preservation standpoint, I enthusiastically embrace metal roofing!
Agreed! Keeping the water out is definitely the first order of things.
So interesting! Thank you for sharing your blogs are always enjoyable
Thanks, Dave! I’m hoping for a “snow day” tomorrow so I can cobble together some new material! Posts have been kind of sporadic lately.