Since last posting on this topic, the history of what we
now know as the Devenney-Steadman House has come a bit more
into focus. The house was almost
certainly built about 1880 (possibly as early as 1875), by the Devenney family. It eventually came into the possession of Callie Devenney Steadman. “California” Devenney, born in that state in August
1864, moved to Phoenix at the age of ten and lived there, probably in this
house, for the rest of her life. At some
point she married, Mr. (Robert?) Steadman, and then was divorced (by 1900), but stayed in the family home. Callie appears to have enjoyed a long and full life in Phoenix,
surrounded by relatives and one son, Douglas. Callie also raised several nieces and nephews from
infancy, two of whom, Mrs. Milo Furry and Mrs. Elva Furry, married into another prominent
Phoenix family. Elva and Robert Furry lived on West 2nd Street, next door to Callie, in another 19th century Phoenix house that is still standing. Callie
Steadman passed away at her home, aged 79 years, in November 1943. Her obituary described her as “A real friend
to all, she will be deeply missed by her many friends and neighbors.”
As it turns out, the Devenney-Steadman House was most
recently occupied, as a rental, in October 2012. The owners, who have owned the house for many
years, apparently want to move back into it in their retirement. They felt the house wasn’t in good condition
and, with some confusion, the planning department and Phoenix Historical
Society originally agreed with that assessment.
However, I think that there isn’t enough information on that, and know
full well that little vernacular houses like the Devenney-Steadman House, are
built for “stout.” Such houses, built of
high-quality old growth timbers, are usually pretty resilient and I’ve seen nothing in the main volume that
would indicate otherwise.
Earlier this month, the Phoenix Historical Society "recanted" on their approval (their president's term, but I like it....) The Phoenix City Council issued a “stay” of the demolition
permit, with the hope of finding a solution and a meeting
with the owners to discuss rehabilitation options will happen within a short
time. There are several good options, I
think, that would allow them to get what they want and keep this important part
of southern Oregon history standing for the future. Keep your fingers crossed!
George: Nice work. Another "save."
ReplyDelete:)...Haven't saved it yet, John, but here's hoping! It's a neat little building that been in Phoenix, on this corner, for 130 years or do. I'd like to see it hit 14 decades if we can.
ReplyDeleteThis is a lovely example of Greek Revival architecture which, undoubtedly, does contain highly valuable old growth timber and quality craftsmanship. The proximity of the large pine tree on the main facade to the porch supports has me worried a bit, which should be looked into, but I see a sound structure. The recently updated roof and lack of any definitive building sagging are a plus. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comment, Leesa. Yes, the tree in front is a problem, actually growing into the edge of the porch roof and, probably, responsible for the foundation issues of the front porch itself. Certainly it needs to be removed. The remainder of the foundation under the main volume is in very good shape and the metal roof, while not compatible, has done a good job of protecting the building. No obvious sagging and the siding and windows are all in good shape. I just hope that the owners are willing to consider other possibilities.
DeleteYou made some decent points there. I looked on the internet for the issue and found most individuals will go along with with your opinion. Thanks!
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Howdy! This is my 1st comment here so I just wanted to give a quick shout out and say I truly enjoy reading your posts. Thanks a lot!
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