Passolt House facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Passolt House
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| Location | 1105 S. Jefferson Ave., Saginaw, Michigan |
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| Area | 4 acres (1.6 ha) |
| Built | 1877 |
| Architect | Ludwig E. Bude |
| NRHP reference No. | 72000653 |
| Added to NRHP | October 18, 1972 |
The Passolt House is a historic home located in Saginaw, Michigan. It stands at 1105 South Jefferson Avenue. This special house was built in 1877. It is so important that it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. This means it is recognized as a place worth preserving for the future.
Contents
History of the Passolt House
Who Built the Passolt House?
The Passolt House was built for Henry Passolt. He was born in Hirschberg, Germany in 1836. When he was 18, he moved to Detroit in 1854. There, he worked in the business of making soap.
Henry Passolt's Life in Saginaw
In 1863, Henry Passolt moved to Saginaw. He started his own business making a type of soap called Atlas soap. This soap was used for laundry. His first factory was built in 1863, close to where the house is now. Sadly, that factory was destroyed in 1893.
Building the Historic Home
In 1877, Henry Passolt decided to build a new home. He hired a local architect named Ludwig E. Bude to design it. This is the house we know today as the Passolt House. Henry Passolt lived in the house until he passed away.
What Happened to the House Over Time?
After Henry Passolt's death, his family owned the house for many years. Later, it was changed into apartments for a while. In 1948, the house became a place for businesses. An advertising agency used it as their office until 1965. In 1966, the Saginaw Historical Society bought the mansion. They turned it into a museum for everyone to visit and learn from.
Design and Features of the Passolt House
Outside the House
The Passolt House is a two-story building. It is made of brick and sits on a strong stone foundation. The house was designed to be very safe from fires. Even the floors inside are made of wood laid over concrete.
The front of the house is very interesting. The middle part sticks out about eight feet. This section has two entry doors side-by-side. Originally, the house had a large porch that went all the way across the front. Later, this was changed to a smaller porch with four pillars.
Inside the Passolt House
Inside, the Passolt House has fourteen rooms. On the first floor, you would find two parlors. These were like living rooms where people would relax or entertain guests. There was also a dining room for meals, a library for reading, a kitchen for cooking, and a bedroom.