Francis M. Stafford House facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Francis M. Stafford House
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 Location in Kentucky
Location in the United States
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| Location | 102 Broadway, Paintsville, Kentucky |
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| Area | 1 acre (0.40 ha) |
| Built | c. 1843 (Rear Segment) c. 1888 (Front Segment) |
| Architectural style | Late Victorian |
| NRHP reference No. | 75000785 |
| Added to NRHP | October 29, 1975 |
The Francis M. Stafford House is a really old and important house in Paintsville, Kentucky, United States. You can find it at 102 Broadway Street. This house is special because it's not just a cool building; it also tells the story of a family that helped create and grow the city of Paintsville. It's even listed on the National Register of Historic Places because of its unique architecture and the Stafford family's big role in history.
A Look Back: The Stafford House Story
The back part of the Stafford House was built around 1843. The front part was added later, around 1888. This makes it the oldest house in Johnson County.
The first owner was John Stafford. But the house was named after his son, Francis M. Stafford. Francis took over the property after his father passed away in 1869. He also built the main, front part of the house.
At one time, the Stafford family farm was very large. It had many other buildings. These included a smokehouse, a store, a coal house, and several barns. There was also a corn crib and a grist mill. The mill was located near the house on Paint Creek.
In 1861, a special holly tree was planted in front of the house. This tree is still standing there today!
After May Stafford, Francis M. Stafford's daughter, died in 1979, the house was empty for many years. In 2003, the state of Kentucky offered Paintsville $200,000. This money was meant to help the city buy and fix up the historic home. However, on July 12, 2003, the Paintsville City Council decided not to accept the grant.
Then, in April 2010, someone from nearby Floyd County bought the house. They spent two years fixing it up. Finally, in October 2012, the Stafford House opened its doors for tours. Now, people can visit and learn about its history!
See also
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Johnson County, Kentucky
- List of historic houses
