Glover House. Historic Preservation Office. www.historicspokane.org
Glover House
1408 North Summit Boulevard
Private Residence
James Nettle Glover is commonly referred to as the “Father of Spokane.” He, accompanied by his wife Susan Tabitha Crump Glover, essentially created the city after purchasing 160 acres of land and giving chunks of it away to anyone who promised to build a business there. He relentlessly promoted the growth of Spokane’s economy and founded several businesses of his own.
After separating from, and subsequently divorcing Susan in 1891 in order to marry the much younger Esther Emily Leslie, Glover’s life was slashed by scandal. Susan, who had moved home to Oregon after their separation, returned to Spokane after Glover married Esther in 1892. Susan claimed that she had not been treated fairly in the proceedings of the divorce, but could find little support. Distraught, she was eventually hauled away to the Eastern State Hospital after being “declared unable to care for herself” according to Barbara Cochran’s Seven Frontier Women and the Founding of Spokane Falls.
A year later, James Glover was forced to move to the residence at North Summit Boulevard as a result of financial instability. As the leading banker in Spokane, the Panic of 1893 hit Glover the hardest. He ended up losing "over $1,500,000" according to his sister-in-law, Mrs. Edwin A. Smith. However, even in financial hardship, Glover still managed to hire the most prominent architect in Spokane, Kirtland K. Cutter. Cutter designed and built the "modest" home for Glover in 1909. The steep roof and columns add drama to the overall appearance of the house. Cutter also masterfully designed the cedar shingled roofing which reflects the pattern of shingled siding. Though it may take some imagination today, the house was originally accompanied by manicured flower beds and maple trees. Glover resided there until his death in 1921.
I'm liking this post, however I would make it a little less vernacular, e.g. instead of this:
ReplyDeleteAnyone mildly dipping their toes into the history of Spokane have doubtless heard of James Nettle Glover. He was the founding father of Spokane, a true pioneer hero and adventurer. The Glover House was James Glover's third and final home, an understated abode for such an awe inspiring historical figure.
Simply start with:
James Glover was the founding father of Spokane, ....
Just my thoughts, great research!
Perhaps more info on the architect might be interesting, since he was one of the more notable designers in the area. Interesting history on James Glover though
ReplyDelete