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Applethorpe Farm facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

Applethorpe Farm is a very old and special farm in Ohio, United States. It's located in Ross County, near a small place called Hallsville. This farm has a long history, starting with the Buchwalter family who settled there a long time ago.

Quick facts for kids
Buchwalter House-Applethorpe Farm
Applethorpe Farm near Hallsville.jpg
Driveway view of the farm buildings
Applethorpe Farm is located in Ohio
Applethorpe Farm
Location in Ohio
Applethorpe Farm is located in the United States
Applethorpe Farm
Location in the United States
Nearest city Hallsville, Ohio
Area 1 acre (0.40 ha)
Built 1840
Architect John Jr. Buchwalter
Architectural style Greek Revival
NRHP reference No. 83002053
Added to NRHP May 26, 1983

History of Applethorpe Farm

Applethorpe Farm is a historic farmstead in northeastern Ross County, Ohio. It sits along Whissler Road, north of the small community of Hallsville. The farm was started by the Buchwalter family in the early 1800s.

Early Settlers and the First Cabin

The Buchwalters were among the first people to settle in this area. When they first arrived, they built a large log building on their new property. This was a common way for early settlers to create a home.

How "Applethorpe" Got Its Name

Over time, the farm became known as "Applethorpe." This special name came from the fact that the farm had the very first apple orchard in all of Ross County. Imagine having the first apple trees in the whole area!

The Farmhouse: A Greek Revival Gem

By 1840, John Buchwalter, Jr. owned the farm. He decided to build a brand new farmhouse. He wanted a grand and stylish home, so he chose the popular Greek Revival style.

Building the House

The new house was built with strong brick walls. It also had special details made from sandstone. The house has two stories, meaning it has two main levels.

Unique Design Features

The farmhouse is very balanced and symmetrical. The front of the house, which faces west, has an entrance in the middle. There are five sections, or "bays," on this front side. Two chimneys rise up from each end of the house.

One of the most striking features is the classical portico around the main entrance. A portico is like a porch with columns. This one has a triple "entablature," which is the part above the columns. It has square columns and heavy, large doors. These details are typical of the Greek Revival style.

National Recognition

In 1983, the Buchwalter house and the rest of Applethorpe Farm were added to the National Register of Historic Places. This is a list of places in the United States that are important for their history or architecture.

Why It's Important

Besides the main house, two other farm buildings were also recognized as historic. The farmhouse's architecture was a key reason for this honor. It was seen as a wonderfully preserved example of the Greek Revival style, especially for a farm home in the countryside.

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