Edmond Life and Leisure - July 11, 2024

Edmond honoring two Centennial homes Friday

Since its inception in 1982, the Edmond Historic Preservation Trust (EHPT) has sought to “Preserve, Protect, and Promote Edmond’s Heritage, Landmarks, and Sites.” The EHPT is expanding their efforts to honor residential houses in Edmond that are at least 100 years old with bronze plaques. Two Centennial Homes plaques will be installed during a ceremony at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, July 12 at 304 E Second Street.

The first two homes to be recognized with Centennial Homes plaques are located at 304 E. Second Street and 229 E. Main Street. Past Trust Chairman Dr. James Crowder said, “Not every 100-year-old house is worth saving, but our rapid removal of houses and neighborhoods that represent our culture and history is saddening to people who truly appreciate Edmond’s heritage. EHPT is recognizing historic homes being saved and honoring the owners who see the value of their retention.”

The centennial home on 304 E. Second Street is located on land owned by Harry Clegern, who sold the lot to George Paas in 1920. Paas built the Craftsman-style home and owned it until 1944. Robert T. Rice bought the home in 1958, and it has been in the Rice family ever since.

The centennial home on 229 E. Main Street is a Craftsman’s house built by William Patten in 1902. Several years later the roof was raised, and a second story was built. It was purchased in 2023 by the Healing Heart Project.

The Edmond Historic Preservation Trust board members, city council members and Mayor Davis invite the public to attend the first Centennial Home Ceremony to learn the history of two of Edmond’s centennial homes. Other centennial homeowners in Edmond may order centennial plaques through EHPT.

The Edmond Historic Preservation Trust duties are outlined by the Trust Indenture of the City of Edmond. Accomplishments include restoration of the 1889 Territorial School located at 124 E 2nd Street, placement of bronze plaques on historic downtown buildings, and installation of street toppers to identify four historic neighborhoods.