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St Paul Historic Home # 23 - The Witch's House

By
Real Estate Broker/Owner with Kirby Fine Homes

This weeks showcase Historic Home of St Paul is 629 Summit Avenue.

I probably should have posted this during Halloween, but I forgot!

Built in 1896, this whimsical home was built for William Kirke and his wife by the famous Clarence Johnston. Johnston is known for having designed over 30 homes on Summit Avenue alone. Another home stood on this site from 1873-1893.

 The doors are one of a kind and help give it my pet name for the home,"The Witch's House". There is just something mystical about the details in the home. For instance the tower roof looks like a witch's black hat, at least to me. As far as architectural design, the home is built in the Gothic Style and helps give it that witchy presence. The gingerbread trim and the high pitched front gable help distinguish the style from a Queen Anne home.

 While it is hard to tell what exterior elements have changed over the years as I was not able to find any old photographs of the home, the shape of the home, the porch, the bracketed eves, and the tiny wood details, make me think that previous owners loved the home and kept it's historical significance intact.


This beautiful Summit Avenue home was recently sold for $1.09 Million. It has approximately 5700 square feet, 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and also a third story apartment. Wood carvings and stained glass windows add interest to the home, as do the large dining room and parlor rooms original to the home.

Carol Smith
Casmi Photography - Mebane, NC
Jennifer - this is absolutely BEAUTIFUL!!!  I just love old homes - and when they are so lovingly maintained it makes me wish the walls could talk.  Thanks for sharing.
Nov 14, 2007 03:46 PM
Jennifer Kirby
Kirby Fine Homes - Minneapolis, MN
The Luxury Agent
Carol - this is one of my favorites as it is so unique. Call me a sucker for the gothic homes. I am glad you liked it!
Nov 14, 2007 03:53 PM