Shriner–Ketcham House facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Shriner–Ketcham House
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 Location in Michigan
Location in the United States
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| Location | 327 Shriner St., Hastings, Michigan |
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| Area | 0.8 acres (3,200 m2) |
| Built | 1863 |
| Architectural style | Italianate |
| NRHP reference No. | 87000186 |
| Added to NRHP | March 17, 1987 |
The Shriner–Ketcham House, also known as Lang House, is a special old house located at 327 Shriner Street in Hastings, Michigan. It was recognized as an important historical place in Michigan in 1996. It was also added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985, which means it's important to the whole country!
Contents
A Look Back in Time
Building the House
In 1866, a local dairy farmer named William Shriner and his wife Harriet bought the land where this house stands. William built the house in 1868. He made it much bigger in 1885.
After William Shriner passed away, his family sold the house. In 1913, John C. Ketcham and his wife Cora Ellen bought it for $1,600. They also bought the five acres of land around it.
The Ketcham Family's Time
When John C. Ketcham bought the house, he was the School Commissioner for Barry County. This meant he helped manage the schools in the area. Later, he became a US Congressman. He served in Congress for six terms, from 1920 to 1932.
While living in the house, Ketcham added a kitchen at the back. He also put in a bathroom, which was a modern update for the time. Cora Ellen Ketcham passed away while John was serving in Congress. He got married again in 1924. John C. Ketcham continued to live in the house until he died in 1941.
Later Owners
In 1950, a person named Ed Caulkins bought the house. He made some big changes to it. Since then, the house has had several different owners. Today, it is still a private home where a family lives.
What the House Looks Like
The Shriner–Ketcham House is a two-story building made of brick. It is built in the Italianate style. This style often features low roofs and tall, narrow windows. The house sits on a strong foundation made of cut granite stones.
The windows are tall and narrow, with rounded tops. A porch from the early 1900s stretches across the front of the house. There is also a single-story addition at the back, also from the early 1900s. This house is special because it is one of only three brick Italianate houses in Hastings.
Inside the House
On the first floor, you will find a living room with a fireplace. There is also a den, a modern kitchen, a dining area, and a laundry room. A large hallway connects to a side porch.
Upstairs, on the second floor, there are three bedrooms and a bathroom. These rooms are reached from a central hallway.
