CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio – Gregg-Crites Octagon House listed in the National Register of Historic Places
The Gregg-Crites Octagon House in Pickaway County was recently listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Heritage Architectural Associates assisted the Roundtown Conservancy in the nomination of this property in recognition of its importance to the history of Pickaway County, Ohio. Noted for it historical and unique architectural significance, the Gregg-Crites Octagon House joins other octagon properties around the state and US with National Register status.
“We are thrilled that the Gregg-Crites House has been recognized with its listing in the National Register of Historic Places. During the nomination review hearing, the Ohio Historic Site Preservation Advisory Board took the unusual step of raising the property’s level of significance from the local level to the state level due to the uniqueness and historic importance of this property,” says Steven Avdakov of Heritage Architectural Associates. He goes on to explain, “The Roundtown Conservancy has been relentless in its efforts to preserve this important historic resource, and this National Register listing is a testament to these efforts.”
“We have been working on the Octagon House since 2001,” said Stephanie Sharpneck, president of the Roundtown Conservancy. “After countless obstacles that kept us from doing what we wanted to do, which was restore the house, being listed on the National Register, along with two grants from the State of Ohio are giant steps forward to the restoration stage of the project.”
“The placing on the National Historic Register of the Octagon House in Circleville, I know it’s been a long time coming,” said Gary Scherer, Pickaway County Commissioner. “It’s been a lot of hard work on the part of the volunteers of the Roundtown Conservancy, and I appreciate them so much for making the effort to get this done.”
About the Octagon House
Built in 1855-56 by George W. Gregg, the house was scheduled for demolition to make way for a Super Wal-Mart. Because of the historic as well as the architectural value of the house, the Conservancy began an effort to rescue the house from the wrecking ball. In 2004, the Octagon House was moved about one-half mile from its original location. The house will be restored to its original state and the house and will be used to promote local and architectural history. These activities will add to the quality of life in Pickaway County and also will allow an income to maintain the house and buildings.
