For Sale – 1878 Italianate – Walk to Downtown Memphis

by Joe Spake on March 21, 2010

In a city that should have a Caterpillar track hoe as part of it’s official seal, it is nice to run across an historic gem that is in good enough shape to preserve and restore, and still retains it’s 1870′s charm and grandeur.

June West of Memphis Heritage describes the 1878  West J. Crawford House at 290 South Lauderdale:

1880’s Italianate townhouse with 13 ft ceilings downstairs, 12 ft ceilings upstairs, original components including doors, mantels with original inserts, including intricate etched glass front door. Original floor plan is intact. Sale also includes two story brick detached out building on grounds. House has been occupied as a personal residence up until 2 months ago. One of only a handful of this type historic structures still standing in Memphis. We must help get this house in the right hands so it will be preserved.

Michelle Wall, owner/agent (Crye-Leike) has the house on the market for $120,000 (901-484-1638).  I got to tour and photograph the property Saturday with my friend known to many of you as @GatesofMemphis.  We were most impressed that the house, and the 2 story brick back house are in good condition, with little or no water incursion, and no obvious structural issues.  The architectural features are amazing.  The boiler still heats up the radiators, and the home is in good enough condition to “camp” in while you work on repairs and upgrades.

I am sure there are lots of folks who would like to see this property, a stone’s throw away from Fedex Forum, bulldozed for their higher purposes, but let’s hope Michelle can find a buyer who will loving restore this wonderful property.

Here are some of the photos I took yesterday

I posted these and more high resolution pictures of the house on Flickr.  Creative Commons license.  If you use any of the pictures please give proper attribution.

Joe Spake is a Memphis, Tennessee based Consultant, Real Estate Broker, and Blogger. Call 901.214.5563 for a consultation or click to make a social connection.
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