Story Time: Historic Homes, Lafayette, Bremerton, Wa

I recently had the opportunity to take a look at a historic home in Bremerton, Wa.  There's something about the charm and character of a century-old home that draws people in, and the history that comes along with it only adds to the intrigue. Today, we're taking a closer look at one such property: 412 S Lafayette Ave in Bremerton, WA 98312.

I had the privilege of a 'pre-tour' of sorts, with Gloria Mellon and her husband, Keith. Their passion for historic homes is clear, and the artfulness and respect for the past is evident. While this home has all modern conveniences, they chose to keep the historic charm of the home, and honor it's history and emphasize its charm.

As you enter the home, you are greeted in a bright room. A place to take your shoes off, or sit and enjoy the day, this space is welcoming and warm, and speaks of 'home'. Upon entering the into the living room, you see the beautiful wood trim, and the attention to detail that was always evident as homes were built in that period. Original fir flooring, an amazing archway, with lots of built in storage, picture rails, and original windows bring you to a wonderfully warm feeling of nostalgia. You can clearly picture a Christmas tree and lights from a time gone by, when traditions, family gatherings and pageantry were all part of society.

While all of this charm is absolutely delightful, on closer inspection, you can see the love and detail that was put into the home. While resotration is a beautiful thing, no one wants an outhosue out back! The kitchen is breathtaking, as you realize the small conveniences that have been thought of. New appliances, a coffe bar, with built in water fill for the pots, but done in period style. The orginal windows have dormars for added energy efficiency. The bathrooms have been updated, and in the bedroom suite, a luxurious, claw foot tub awaits!

Outside, the home has also been udpated and the landscaping is mature. This home sits on an oversized lot, and has an excellent deck in the back, perfect for outdoor entertainment! 

It was a joy to hear how Keith and Gloria have lovingly updated and resotred this beautiful home. 

A little history....

In 1903, William Bremer had faced some backlash from the US Navy because of Bremerton's reputation for drinking and gambling. He decided to take Bremerton, got all of the commercial land owners to agree, and sell it to the US Navy. According to HistoryLink.org ( HitoryLInk.org ), William decided that if the Navy wanted to run his town, they could buy it... and offered to sell it to the government for a whopping $350,000. The Navy turned down the offer, as they felt the price too high. (I've lived in Kitsap all my life, and didn't know that the entire town of Bremerton was, at one time, for sale to the government!) 

In 1916, Washington state had gone "dry" and by 1919, the nation had followed. What is interesting to me, is that this home was built in 1916, though the name of the builder has not been found. With the Navy yard being here, was this person someone who came for a job, or was it built for someone who was a higher up in the Navy? Or, yet still, none of the above. This historic mystery leaves it open to the imagination, and, for sure, a book should be written! :)

In 1923, the home was bought by James and Mamie Brown. They lived there until Mamie's passing in 1935. James remarried shortly after Mamie's death, to a lady named Belle, and they lived there, and were shown on, the 1940 census.

There is a gap in information until 1950's, when Harry and Franscis Snyder bought the property. The Snyders owned a second hand store on Callow, and they lived in the home until 2001, when Harry passed away. When Gloria and Keith began restorations, they found some things in the attic from the time when Harry had his store. 1990's Hot Wheels were among them. Interestingly, Keith and Gloria put some of these items back in the walls, and also added a 'time capsule', with items from our own time period. 

It's amazing how well built these older homes are. The flavor, character and charm of the time is captured, and reminds us of a space that is rich with history, nostalgia and reminds us where we came from. It's clear from the attention to detail this home offers, as well as the updates, that Keith and Gloria love historic homes, and are invested in creating spaces that bring us back home in our hearts. 

This home is on the market and avialable for move in. The home has been reduced in price, and is well within FHA guidelines for home loans! Keith and Gloria are invested in getting this beautiful home sold to the right person! Check it out today!  412 Lafayette, Bremerton