These three stout columns uphold a porch on one of the oldest buildings still standing around downtown Columbia City. One might say they were evocative of the strong convictions of its prominent resident, and the building is now a landmark of Whitley County.
The columns are of course part of the home of Columbia City’s most widely known resident, Vice President Thomas R. Marshall, at 108 West Jefferson Street. Originally built in 1874 in the Italianate architectural style popular at the time, the home was remodeled in 1895 at the time of his marriage to Lois Kimsey. It was likely at that time that the house lost some characteristically Italianate features that it would have had, such as decorative eave corbels and cornices, which were replaced with simpler elements. However, even after that and other remodelings, the distinctive low-pitched hipped roof, ornate brick chimney, and substantial porch columns are still evidence of the original style.
After Thomas’ death in 1925, the house remained with his widow until 1953. Eventually it was deeded to the Whitley County Commissioners and has long been the home of the Whitley County Museum. After a renovation to restore its circa 1895 appearance, the home was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. It is also a stop on Columbia City Connect’s new Historic Walking Tour, which could be something to check out while downtown next week for Old Settlers’ Days!
Thank you to Nathan Bilger for providing the recent photos and valuable insights into the architectural history.
