544 S Clay, 63122
Available for pre-sale at: $1,390,000
To be completed: Fall 2024
Welcome to 544 South Clay Avenue in Kirkwood, Missouri! This beautiful Victorian-style Farmhouse was originally constructed in 1883. A combination of the ornate detailing and dramatic volumes combine both Farmhouse and Victorian Architecture to create a high-style home from this era. Details like steep pitch roofs, two story facades, varied siding textures, and ornamental elements create an elegant and luxurious appeal. Our plans will completely modernize and expand this house to accommodate the modern family.
Features
History
1883 - The house was constructed in Kirkwood, Mo.
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Founded in 1853, Kirkwood was the first suburb of St. Louis. 544 S Clay was built on Lot 15 of Zephyr Heights in an era dominated by horse and buggies and trains. The original owner and architect remain unknown.
1909 - House listed for sale as a "Kirkwood Home Bargain."
The first sales listing available for this property is from the St. Louis Globe Democrat in 1909. The seller, Mr. Sprague, listed the house with Kent Jarvis of Lincoln Trust Building for a price of only $4,500.
1911 - Fire destroys outbuilding.
A fire broke out at the property. Local high school students assisted with fighting the blaze, but ultimately the outbuilding valued at $1,000 was destroyed.
1917 - The Home of the Kelvinator.
Current resident Richard C. Houck is the founder and vice president of Kelvinator-St. Louis Co. Inc, manufacturer of one of the original electric ice-boxes and refrigerators.
1921 - Edward H. Downing purchases 544 S Clay.
Richard C. Houck sells the house to Edward H. Downing, vice president of International Bank of St. Louis.
1940's/50's - Engagement and marriage announcements.
The 40's and 50's were filled with joy as three Downing girls, Martha, Ann, and Sally Marie, all celebrated engagements and weddings. Many parties were hosted at the house.
1959 - Wilson and Ruth Stocker purchase 544 S Clay.
The Stocker's purchased the house in the late 1950's, destined to spend decades making the house and surrounding community their home. They raised two children and impacted the lives of many in Kirkwood.
1970's - All animals are welcome!
Ruth was known to love all animals, and to no surprise many took residence in her backyard. Throughout the 60s and 70s you could find goats, ducks, chickens and many more around the property!
1994 - The rear porch receives a facelift.
Exterior improvements in the 80's and 90's included a resurfaced gravel driveway and remodeled rear deck.
2022 - Terra Nova Revives purchases 544 S Clay.
Destined to be restored instead of erased, the property was purchased by Terra Nova Revives with the intent of breathing new life into the home for a new generation of living!