Neglected italiate

[eclecticcottage]

Went and looked at a property today. Too much work needed for the asking price but some nice features. One or two weird "features" like what appears to be a chicken coop in the basement and a room I just can't explain at the rear. Two stories high plus a little to the roof completely unfinished save a light fixture. Also there was a large built in in the kitchen any thoughts on why the drawers would have locks?

[eclecticcottage]

Some more cool stuff. Also I've never seen trim like this with exposed screws. Oh and four seat outhouse with a side door/clean out. It has integrated gutters as well however all of the downspouts failed and caused a lot of rot

[eclecticcottage]

Better close up if the exposed screws in the trim and other stuff.

[Old house lady]

Hope she can be saved. LOVE the medallions!

[Manalto]

Maybe the kitchen locks were for a time when the place was a boarding house?

[Willa]

Maybe the kitchen locks were for a time when the place was a boarding house?

Or to keep silverware, etc. safe from thieves and staff pilfering ?

[Manalto]

After a second look I see the kitchen-drawer locks, which appear original to the house. Ifo those are the locks you're referring to, I agree with Willa. (I thought there were some that had been added later - mentioned but not pictured.) In the movies, you'll often see the trusted servant locking away the silver with a key hung from his or her waist.

It's certainly a well-built, distinctive house with much attention to detail - and a big project. Here's hoping someone with the resources and sensitivity wants to take on the project.

[eclecticcottage]

Ahhh, the locks make sense.

Here is s drawing from the 1800's of it

[1918ColonialRevival]

The locks could have been to secure silver or china, but the more I look at them, it looks like they may have simply procured some "stock" drawers from a cabinetmaker to save a little money when they made the built-in. The drawers look very similar to what would be seen in a chest of drawers or washstand. Most 19th century furniture had a lock for each drawer. By the time this house was built, furniture was in an early form of mass production.

It has potential, but looks like it's seen at least a quarter century of neglect. I really hope it gets restored to its former glory.

[Powermuffin]

Sad house.