lexington tour of homes

Tour of Homes Western Oregon Builders Association

July 26th, 27th, 28th & August 2nd, 3rd, 4th 

Welcome to the 2024 Tour of Homes

July 26th, 27th, 28th

August 2nd, 3rd, 4th 

Lane, Benton and Linn County

Tour of Homes. 

Whether you’re in the market for a new home, looking to hire a builder or looking for inspiration, Tour of Homes is a great place to start!

https://qrco.de/bfAclk

...or find the printed magazine at Jerry's, Kelly's Appliances, or at the WOBA office!

Thank you to our sponsors.

Explore the Grand Tour of Homes

The Grand Tour of Homes is back, showcasing the latest trends in home construction. Featuring over 20 new homes ranging from $330,000 to $1.4 million, this self-guided tour offers a unique opportunity to speak directly with builders and see the best in modern home design.

Additional Information:

Event: Building Industry Association of Central KY’s Grand Tour of Homes Date: July 20-21 & 27-28, 2024 12pm to 5pm Location: scattered sites in Central KY (virtual tours available) Website: BIACentralKY.com

Report a typo

Sign up to get your weekly dose of good news celebrating the best people and places in the Bluegrass! It's free and delivered right to your inbox!

Now signed up to receive the best of bluegrass newsletter..

It's Free! Signup today!

St. Jude Dream Home to be included in Grand Tour of Homes

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - More than 5,000 tickets have been sold so far for this year’s St. Jude Dream Home giveaway.

The beautiful 1,600-square-foot home is ready for you to come to check out this weekend!

“It has just been an amazing, amazing experience to watch it come together,” said Chellie Mulberry, Owner of Mulberry Builders and Lead Designer.

3520 Stolen Horse Trace looks a bit deceiving from the street, but when you step through the front door it’s a bright, open space with tall ceilings and character.

“It just feels really grand and also cozy when we add all of our finishes in,” said Mulberry.

The home was built with inclusivity in mind. It’s ADA accessible, making it unique to the year’s past.

“We have designed it, specifically, to be accessible to the majority of people. That includes wider doorways and no thresholds, including in the shower,” said Mulberry.

Mulberry says the home has so many wonderful features. From a coffee bar to gold faucets and hardware to intricate light fixtures and a whimsical bathroom.

“It’s cozy, but you’re still going to have that little bit of fun to it,” Mulberry said.

The Mulberry Builders team says they’ve worked hard to stage the home to perfection for this weekend’s Grand Tour of Homes.

“It’s just a wonderful opportunity to showcase the builders in the area and what we can offer to homeowners and those looking to purchase a home. As far as the St. Jude Home, you get to view this and then get online and grab your ticket to win it.”

Mulberry says they hope to get as much exposure as possible ahead of the big giveaway in September.

“The heart and the reason behind it is so special and so important,” said Mulberry.

Every $100 ticket sold helps ensure St. Jude families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing or food while they focus on helping their child get better.

“We are thrilled to be a part of this project. We really look at it as a way to impact the families and children of St. Jude. Though we can’t do anything medically, this is one way that we can,” said Mulberry.

The Grand Tour of Homes is a free, self-guided tour, though Mulberry Builders says they will have representatives on-site to answer any questions.

It’s happening Saturday and Sunday from 12-5 and again the following weekend.

• Home and Garden
• Real Estate

Come on in: Behind the scenes of Lexington’s Grand Tour of Homes

Lexington’s Grand Tour of Homes is a highlight of every summer for Lexington homeowners and prospective homeowners in search of inspiration. Hamburg Journal invited a few of the builders behind those homes to share a few thoughts about this year’s upcoming tour and our neighborhood with the Hamburg Journal readers.

Jimmy Nash, Jimmy Nash Homes

Jimmy Nash loves Lexington. He tells us, “Anytime you go on vacation and you look forward to coming home that tells you about your community. I call Lexington the biggest smallest town in America. It’s a community where the more you give the more you get back.”

He’s passionate about Hamburg too. “Hamburg is the best location in Central Kentucky,” he says. “Its location is the number one selling point because it’s close to downtown, close to both I-75 and I-64. Hamburg also has the convenience of shopping and entertainment. And, it has lots of choices of schools of both public and private education.”

He says, “We’ve always supported the Home Builders Association and we try to have a Grand Tour home each year. We have a loyal following each year. We’ve been in business for 23 years and the public enjoys seeing something new. We are always pushing the envelope in offering something unique that customers can take away. What’s nice about the Grand Tour is the multiple locations and various price points so there is something for everybody.”

This year, he says, “We have two homes in the grand tour of homes – both are new model homes that we’ve opened up this year… When we do a model home, each has a different theme. In Patchen Wilkes, it’s a Farm House design. In The Reserve at Greenbrier we have a more traditional design.”

He says, “In Hamburg, we have a 75% market share in homes with a price point above $500,000. There is probably a stereotype that we are expensive because the Grand Tour of Homes we showcase are on the high end, but what will surprise readers is our affordability. In addition, we’ve started doing renovation and remodeling projects. We don’t advertise it, but try to keep it word of mouth.”

Asked about what challenges might face Hamburg, he says they aren’t challenges per se, explaining, “As the community continues to grow, some patience will be involved because we’ll have improvements with roads and schools. There will be new streets and new corridors to construct. The Master Plan might be slow, but it will take place eventually. For example, the new YMCA has been in the planning stages for years and is now becoming a reality as well as the new high school to be built on Winchester Road and the new elementary school off of Polo Club Blvd.”

Nash sits on several local boards, including Cardinal Hill Healthcare System, Andover Country Club, Bluegrass Community and Technical College, and he is Chairman of the Kentucky Easter Seal Society. He says, “I grew up around building and construction as both my father and grandfather were both General Contractors.” He describes Jimmy Nash Homes as “a one-stop shop that can handle a new home from A to Z. We can help a customer design a home from start to finish.” He tells us Jimmy Nash Homes “completed the Still Meadow Community, Andover Forest, and we are the exclusive builder at Patchen Wilkes community, and we are the preferred builder at The Reserve at Greenbrier.”

A typical day for Nash begins “at the office at 8 am” and he then work 12-hour days. “On the weekends, I enjoy spending time with my wife and my two sons. One is 12 who likes to golf and the other is 14 who likes to play Lacrosse. I recently returned from Atlanta for a lacrosse tournament. My hobby is playing golf at Andover, where I am a Member, which allows me to network and spend time with friends.”

He adds, “I will say this. Every day is a unique day… It’s really a great journey. When the home is complete and the daily communication comes to a halt… it’s like an odd feeling like when your kids go off to college and aren’t there on a daily basis. We truly develop a bond with our customers.”

JON BYER, Byer Builders

Jon Byer is “a fourth generation builder.” He tells us, “I got a business degree from the University of Kentucky in the early 90s, I have built numerous homes and completed multiple remodeling projects in the Hamburg area including Andover, Tuscany, West Wind, Home Place, Summerfield, for the past 20 years.”

He and wife Michele have been married for 15 years and have two children Jack and Reagan. They attend Southland Christian church and are supporters of the Ronald McDonald House. He tells us, “During the tour we raise funds and awareness for the Ronald McDonald House of the Bluegrass.” Byer’s approach is hands-on. He says, “I’m an on-site builder who oversees the daily production. I am not a production builder with project managers or supervisors, I provide personal service, and strive for only top quality workmanship, unique creativity, follow through, and ensuring that even small details are effectively handled. We also provide remodeling services, have an in house architect, and a design team.”

Asked to share a unique project memory, he says, “My wife and I are constantly playing pranks on each other which usually consist of one of us hiding somewhere jumping out and scaring the other. Recently, she called me and said she was going to stop by one of my jobs and would be there in a few minutes. Upon hearing what I thought was her vehicle pull up, I ran and hid in a closet. A few seconds later I heard her walk through the door and I jumped out and screamed. But to my surprise it was my client, needless to say she nearly fainted!”

“That is the one thing I love about my career,” he says. Everyday is different and unique. With that being said it always consist of a daily devotion, checking on all jobs for quality control, scheduling, and communicating with my clients and sales team.

I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, traveling, fishing, golfing, and waterfowl hunting.”

The Byer model on the tour is located at 1788 Sandhurst Cove (in the Summerfield subdivision just off Winchester road), where he definitely will not be jumping out of any closets. His advice for tour goers is, “Take your time looking at the details of each home. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and if you’re looking for a preferred builder it’s a great time to ask the builder specific questions.”

He says, “A home is one of the biggest financial investments people will make. I feel that the Hamburg area provides an added appreciation to homes due to the amenities and its location. With the new schools, YMCA, and responsible growth I feel that Byer Builders will be rooted deeply in the Hamburg area for years to come.”

He’s committed to Lexington, saying, “I’m blessed and proud to call it home. I love our community and have a tremendous amount of respect for preserving our heritage. I look forward to working with and educating our community for years to come on responsible growth while preserving the beauty of this great city!”

 JAMES MONROE, James Monroe Homes

James Monroe didn’t buy a house the first time he went on Lexington’s Grand Tour of Homes. He tells us, “My first memory of the Grand Tour was going with my new wife right after we got married to all the houses which we thought we would never be able to afford. It was so much fun to see those expensive houses fully furnished and have the ability to walk through every room. By the end of the tour we did not buy a house but my wife did tell me we could buy a flat screen TV.”

Of this year’s Tour, he says, I am most looking forward to showcasing our fine homes to the public. We are the only builder who will have homes priced from $125,000 to $350,000. This gives us a special opportunity to be the premier small volume builder for many Central Kentuckians.”

“We are one of the few builders who will build on our lots or yours. We also will build one of our plans for you or completely design a new plan to fit your lifestyle. Even our house plans can be completely modified and customized specific to each home owner. We have rarely built the same model house exactly the same for two different customers. Most of the people we talk to on the Grand Tour do not know that about our company.”

“We are a small volume builder who treats every house and customer as if we are building custom. There is nothing we will not change, add, or redesign to make your home custom to your family. We do this regardless of the price point of the home.”

“Lexington is home,” Monroe says, “I was born on Bassett Ave, yes in my parents’ home. I have many memories playing with the neighborhood kids and at Henry Clay’s Home. When Toyota opened in Georgetown we had to move to Scott County because my dad started working there. The only college I ever wanted to go to was University of Kentucky. So after high school I came back to Lexington. I got married here and I have planted my roots here. Lexington is my home, where I am raising my family, and Lexington is where I will be buried if I am so lucky.”

He says, “I think the Hamburg area is one of the greatest places to live in Lexington. This is where I live. We want to continue to build great quality, energy efficient, and low maintenance homes for those who want to raise a family, retire, or enjoy life in the Hamburg Area.”

“I think the biggest asset for the Hamburg Area is the proximity to I-75 and I-64. This allows for easy access around Lexington and to Georgetown, Richmond, Berea, Frankfort, and Mt, Sterling. Hamburg will soon be able to offer everything that the Nicholasville Road and Harrodsburg Road area has to offer plus more. I am really excited to get a new YMCA, High School, and Elementary School in Hamburg. There is great golf in the Hamburg Area.”

There are a few challenges facing the neighborhood though. “The Hamburg area is seeing a shortage of lots,” he says. “There are plenty of lots for smaller homes and two story homes under $300K. These lots are typically 40-50 feet wide. There are plenty of lots for your larger and more distinguished homes which cost above $600,000. These lots are typically 75-100+ feet wide. For a person who wants to build a ranch home or have a home with larger yards but cannot afford the $600,000 and up price point is very limited. We need more 55-65 ft. lots to accommodate this growing need. Growth in this area is going to be very limited due to the LFUCG Urban Service Area Map.”

He adds, “we completely sold out all of our homes in Phase 1 of the Fairways at Andover. We are expecting to close on additional lots in Phase 2 and begin building those new homes. We are also building homes in Kearney Hall and Newtown Springs. Newtown Springs and Kearney Hall both have 50-60+ foot wide lots. These lots cost half as much as those in the Hamburg Area. James is married to Martha Monroe and they started James Monroe Homes in 2006. In 2009, he says, “we started building all of our homes to Energy Star standards. This really helped improve our quality because we had a third party company inspect our homes and verify their energy efficiency. We continue to use a third party company to inspect several times, rate, and verify the quality and energy efficiency of every home we build.”

His work days starts “with me out the door around 7:15am. I spend most of the morning and early afternoon visiting every job site. I am looking to see what has been done, needs to be scheduled, and meeting with contractors to discuss options for the house. I then spend the afternoon in the office working on emails, bids, proposals, invoices, billings, permits, and other paper work. If I am lucky I am finished by 5-6pm. If not I am working until 9-10pm.” But he is a devout family man too. He says, “For fun I like to be with my family, especially my kids. I work hard so that we can play hard on the weekends. It is very important to me to make weekends family time and that has priority over any work affairs. In the spring and summer time we like to fish, shoot bb guns, camp, canoe, kayak, whitewater raft, trail ride ATV’s, play baseball and tee ball, ride bikes, swim, and do just about anything outside. In the fall and winter we are snowboarding, Cub Scouts, watching all UK Sports, tailgating, and have family movie night. I am an active leader in North East Christian Church Youth Group.

He says, “In 2013 we were named HBAL Builder of the Year, HBAL Green Builder of the Year, and had one of our homes awarded Best Green Build Project of the Year.”

Asked to share a project memory, he admits, “I have a very low tolerance for pain. I was walking through a home that Drew Brester was building who is a good friend of mine. While we were talking and walking I rolled my ankle on a rock in the construction entrance and immediately passed out. When I woke up I had no idea where I was and all the contractors and Drew were leaned over my body looking at me as if to say, ‘is he alive?’ I was so embarrassed. To this day Drew Brester will still call to check on me and make sure I have not passed out again.”

He concludes, “We have participated in the Grand Tour of Homes for the past 5 years. This is a great opportunity to educate the public and our future customers on how we build quality and energy efficient homes. The public gets to see our finished product first hand.”

His advice is simple: “First and foremost go to all the James Monroe Homes first. Then go to as many of the homes as you can. It does not matter if you are in the market to buy today or next year, want decorating ideas, looking for design ideas of your dream home, or just dreaming; go and have fun. This is the best time to meet many builders and get a good idea of what they can build.”

LISA BALL, Ball Homes

Lisa Ball says, “I’ve lived here all my life, and take great pride in being part of such a wonderful community. It is a great opportunity to work together with others who share a desire to create and support great places to live, and to give back to the community. The Tour offers a great chance to meet people who are interested in new home ideas, but who might not otherwise make it out to an open house. It is a wonderful opportunity to show what is new in design, energy efficiency, and comfort and convenience features. Many people don’t realize how much new homes evolve in even a few years in terms of energy savings, livability, and style.”

She says, “This is a wonderful opportunity to get a comprehensive look at what is available in new homes in our area—and with 44 homes in four counties on the tour, it could be overwhelming. Visit the interactive map at hbalexington.com or pick up a planbook at any home on the tour, and use it to target the floor plans, locations and price ranges that are of the most interest.”

She says, “This year we have 14 model homes on the tour, and half of those are brand new models, plus many have new floor plans and new communities. It’s been nice to see how many new options we are bringing to the Tour this year, in addition to the popular model homes in some of our established neighborhoods.”

“Hamburg is such a wonderfully diverse and accessible environment for living, shopping, dining, and entertainment, with so many options,” she says, “There is excellent availability of healthcare of all kinds. There’s tremendous energy and potential for continued growth.”

“Hamburg is [also] relatively new area to Lexington, and attracts a lot of people who are new to the area because of its accessibility and great availability of options. Many who are new to the area might not realize that Ball Homes is a family-owned and operated company building new homes in the area since 1959. In many ways, our business has grown with the families of Lexington, and the city itself. Many of our homebuyers are in their second or third Ball Homes, or are second-generation customers who grew up in one of our homes and then came back to us when it was time to own their own.

Our corporate mission is to provide quality communities for the people of Kentucky. Our new homes and communities in Bryant Oak and Chilesburg are great examples of these, and we feel they combine great contemporary neighborhood design with great home design and quality. She wants to see Hamburg meet the challenge of “providing additional opportunities for recreation, activities, and entertainment that are kid-focused,” adding, “We’re excited about continued growth in the Bryant Oak Reserve and Chilesburg residential areas.”

Asked to share a project memory, she says, “Most of our funny stories revolve around dealing with wildlife in a new construction environment—skunks, especially! Sometimes we have some unexpected visitors to the job site, and it’s not unheard of for them to hole up in an unfinished house during the quiet of the night. Sometimes we get involved in some unplanned animal rescue adventures!”

In her free time, Ball “enjoys spending time with family, and I am a big UK fan and also a horse enthusiast.”

MIKE KERWIN, Mike Kerwin Homes

Mike Kerwin Homes has been designing and building homes in Lexington for 27 years. He enjoys the Grand Tour for “the opportunity to show the public what our team is capable of producing…and this is the first time in quite a while we had a home to show.”

He encourages tour-goers to “look past the decorating and focus on design and craftsmanship.” He says, “We haven’t built a spec house in eight years. We are a design and build firm.” Currently, they “have three homes in the design stage and will be starting one in Blackford and one in Pikeville next month.”

He is staying put, saying, “I have the best job in the world! I am surrounded my intelligent capable people who share a common goal of producing the best built homes in Central Kentucky.” Lexington is home to their family. “It is where my wife, Laura and I raised our children and where they are now raising theirs. It is a wonderful place to live.”

Take the Tour!

This summer the Home Builders Association of Lexington will be presenting its Grand Tour of Homes. The 2014 tour will feature some 45 new homes—almost twenty percent more than last year—located around the Bluegrass region of Kentucky including Fayette, Scott and Woodford, and Jessamine Counties.

The homes themselves will represent a diverse range of what’s available in these markets for prospective home buyers in various price points.

According to Chip Crawford, the 2014 President of the HBA, this will be the largest of the tours in recent years. This, Crawford believes, “indicates that the market is moving again! Which is great news for builders and consumers who want to purchase for the first time or make a change.” This year’s set of homes, according to HBA, will cover a cost spectrum ranging from the very accessible $113,900 to the more extravagant $1.3 million.

Along with a diverse price range, The Home Builders Association of Lexington also works to show off some of the diversity in architecture styles available to those in Lexington and its surrounding areas.

That being said, even if you’re not in the market for a million dollar home, it’s always fun to see what’s out there on the real estate market. The tour is self-guided which means participants can select the homes that most interest them and create their own home tour experience to suite their needs—whether it’s practical research or a little wish-fulfillment.

Each year on the list of selected houses, one particular location is designated a “Home of Excellence.” These homes are the product of a collaborative process between professional members of the HBA of Lexington Registered Builder Committee where each party takes a leadership role during the various phases of construction. The first “Home of Excellence” was built back in 2003 to show-off the latest in design, technology and décor.

For 2014, that home is a new construction located in the Clays Crossing community off of Clays Mill Road at 104 Yates Court. This particular home is a four-bedroom clocking in at $825,000. For those interested, the properties will be open and available for viewing on July 19, 20 and the 26 and 27 from 1 pm to 5 pm and there is no cost to attend the tour. There will also be representatives at each of the homes to answer various questions and explain their projects more in depth for those that are curious.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Public Input requested for Kelley’s Landing

Remembering Father Norman Fischer

Lexington’s Wael Musa honored as Proprietor of the Year

Subscribe to get hj's digital issue by email, recent issues.

Hamburg Journal Digital Version Sep 2024

Hamburg Journal Digital Edition August 2024

Hamburg Journal Digital Edition July 2024

EVEN MORE NEWS

POPULAR CATEGORY

• Business 226
• Features 152

Calendar of Events

Top 13 things to do, plant-friendly, diversity, equity & inclusion, new restaurants, convention center, request for proposal, historic homes and places.

Anywhere you walk in Lexington, you’re bound to stumble on something historical! Founded in 1775, Lexington is one of the earliest regions in Kentucky and was known as the Athens of the West for its big city artistic charm in the expanding west.

Whether you are searching for relics of past eras and interesting people, examples of architectural worth, or scenes of noteworthy events, you will find plenty of fascinating history here.

Historic Homes of Lexington

Ashland, the Henry Clay Estate

The home of the Great Compromiser, statesman Henry Clay, Ashland sits on acres of beautiful parkland in the Chevy Chase neighborhood. The house is available to tour with preserved architecture from the rebuild in 1857 and family memorabilia and furniture. The grounds at Ashland are as much of an attraction as the house. A certified arboretum and English parterre-style garden, walk around the trails, view the statues, perfectly rowed flowers, and the centuries-old trees. Outdoor exhibits on slaves and women at Ashland are free to view. 

120 Sycamore Road | (859) 266-8581

* Visiting in the fall? Cross the street from Ashland and stroll down Catalpa Road to see the famous gingko trees! *

Mary Todd Lincoln House

Mary Todd, who would become Mrs. Abraham Lincoln, lived in this house until she was 21. On trips home to Lexington to visit her family, Mary Todd and Abe would stay at the house. Family pieces and period antiques as well as personal possessions of Mary Todd are on display. The brick house was built in 1803 and includes a period herb and perennial garden in the backyard. Tours available. 

578 W Main St | (859) 233-9999

Waveland was built in 1847 for Joseph Boone, great-nephew of Daniel Boone. An excellent example of Greek revival architecture in Kentucky, Waveland was an antebellum hemp farm. Along with visiting the house, there are vast gardens, slave quarters, picnic areas and a playground. Waveland is famous for its Christmas activities and its Tuesday Teas. 

225 Waveland Museum Lane | (859) 272-3611

Other Notable Historic Places

McConnell Springs

A city park, McConnell Springs was the site of Lexington’s founding. In 1775, after hearing of the Revolutionary War battle of Lexington and Concord, William McConnell and other surveyors named their campsite Lexington in honor of the battle. Lexington’s birthplace is a 21.5 acre park with walking trails, a spring, and a nature center. 

416 Rebmann Lane | (859) 225-4073 

Courthouse Square

This impressive Richardsonian Romanesque courthouse was built at the turn of the 20 th century, the fifth Fayette County courthouse on this location. Venture inside to view the restored dome ceiling through glass floors, and enjoy the mix-use space, including the Lexington Visitors Center. The park abutting the courthouse is Henry Tandy Centennial Park, named after the African American mason and businessman who did the brickwork for the building. Across from the Visitors Center, you can read more about Henry Tandy and explore a timeline of the history of Lexington.

215 W Main Street | (859) 233-7928

First National Building

Across Upper Street from Courthouse Square stands Lexington’s first skyscraper, the First National Building. When it was built, it was the tallest building between Cincinnati and Atlanta. Today it houses 21c Hotel and Museum. Explore the free art museum or eat at the Lockbox, located in the old safe of the bank. 

167 W Main Street | (859) 899-6800

Lexington Opera House

Officially opened in 1877, the Lexington Opera House was the height of fashion. With seats upholstered in Turkish velvet and over 250 gaslights, the opera house was one of the top regional attraction. With its nineteenth century architectural features beautifully restored, seeing a Broadway show or ballet at the opera house is a unique experience in the city.

401 W Short Street | (850) 233-4567

Loudoun House

Considered one of the finest Gothic Revival houses in the South, the Loudoun House was built in 1849 for Francis Key Hunt. The house is located in the middle of Castlewood Park and is now home to the Lexington Art League, a public art gallery that hosts many events. 

209 Castlewood Drive | (859) 254-7024

The Lexington Cemetery

A great place to walk and get lost in nature and nineteenth century monuments, the Lexington Cemetery is park-like location near downtown. An arboretum and garden, the cemetery contains many monuments to well-known Kentuckians, including Henry Clay’s tomb and monument. The 130-ft structure includes a statue of Clay at the top, facing towards his beloved Ashland Estate. 

* In the spring, you’ll find many locals strolling and taking photos of the cherry blossoms that turn the cemetery pink. *

One of the oldest residential neighborhoods in Lexington, Gratz Park connects downtown to Transylvania University. With homes from the early 1800 to late 1800s lining a green space, Gratz Park is the perfect place to enjoy a stroll in the shade while admiring some of Lexington’s oldest homes.

Free Visitors Guide

Request a printed copy of our Visitors Guide and learn more about everything the Horse Capital of the World has to offer.

Let's get social

• About VisitLEX
• Privacy Policy
• VisitLex Destination Lexpert Program
• LEX for Good

Lexington Visitors Center 215 W Main St, Suite 75 Lexington, KY 40507 (800) 845-3959  | (859) 233-7299

Additional Contact Information

© 2024 VisitLEX

We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience. By using our site, you agree to our updated Privacy Policy and our Terms of Use.

St. Jude Dream Home to be included in Grand Tour of Homes

Shared Video

48th annual Woodland Art Fair brings in people from around the country

St Jude Dream Home

St. Jude Dream Home in Lexington continues to help Memphis hospital grow

Supporting St. Jude is personal for central Kentucky family

Madison Co. family thankful for support of St. Jude

WATCH | Heroes at St. Jude help children stay on track during their treatment

11 Incredible Historical Homes You Should Visit in Kentucky

We're celebrating the Bluegrass State by taking a tour of its most fascinating and beautiful historical architecture.

From the home that inspired one of the most popular songs in American history to the home that helped put the Bourbon Trail on the map, Kentucky's fascinating historical architecture doesn't disappoint. Here are 11 homes you should definitely see while visiting the Bluegrass State.

My Old Kentucky Home

John Rowan, the original owner of this Federal-style mansion in Bardstown, served many important roles over the course of his lifetime: as Kentucky's Secretary of State, as a member of the state's House of Representatives, and as a U.S. Senator, to name just a few. He also happened to be related to renowned composer Stephen Collins Foster, who wrote an anti-slavery ballad entitled "Poor Uncle Tom, Goodnight," based in part on his memories visiting Federal Hill (the home's official name). The title of the song was later changed to "My Old Kentucky Home."

Foster's ballad is widely considered to be one of the most influential songs in American culture. Today, it is estimated that there are over 2,500 published versions of the song.

Federal Hill is now part of My Old Kentucky Home State Park and is open to the public daily, complete with singing guides on select tours.

One of the nation's finest examples of Greek Revival architecture can be found situated on 40 picturesque acres in the town of Georgetown. Completed in 1857, Ward Hall has garnered attention from architecture buffs for its exceptional level of intactness (even the basement retains its original servants working and sleeping rooms). Measuring more than 12,000 square feet, the home boasts 27-foot high Corinthian columns and majestic 20-foot wide front steps. It was built as a summer home for Junius and Matilda Ward, whose families held great political and economic influence in the area.

Ward Hall is operated by The Ward Hall Preservation Foundation , which raised over $1,000,000 to purchase the home in 2004 and continues its fundraising efforts to restore and maintain this remarkable piece of history. The home is open to the public on select weekends, and other times by appointment.

Jesse R. Zeigler House

When one thinks of Kentucky, Frank Lloyd Wright rarely comes to mind. But the acclaimed architect did design one home here during his lifetime, and it's worth a look-see if driving through Frankfort, even if only from the street (No peeking inside; this one's privately owned). Reverend Zeigler met Wright by chance during a trip to Europe, and commissioned the architect to design the home for him and his family. Constructed in 1910, the Zeigler home displays classic elements of the Wright style, including bold horizontal lines and striking leaded art glass windows.

Loretta Lynn's Birthplace

In the song "Coal Miner's Daughter," country music legend Loretta Lynn croons, "Well, I was born a coal miner's daughter in a cabin on a hill in Butcher Holler..." Loretta's modest childhood home still exists today in Butcher Holler (part of the mining community of Van Lear) and it's a far cry from the opulent Tennessee mansion she purchased after rising to stardom. To get there, you'll have to drive 2 miles past Webb's Grocery; proprietor Herman Webb, who conducts tours of the home, is Loretta's brother.

Loudoun House

If castellated Gothic Revival villas are your Achilles heel, make your way to the Lexington Art League , housed in the circa 1850 Loudoun House. The speculator mansion was built by one of American history's most prominent architects, Andrew Jackson Davis, for the cousin of Francis Scott Key, who wrote the lyrics to the national anthem. The Loudoun House Gallery is open for tours at select times during the week.

All of Old Louisville

If you're a fan of towers, turrets and pink palaces , you'll feel like a kid in a candy store while meandering through Old Louisville, which contains the third largest national historic district in the United States and the largest one comprised primarily of Victorian architecture. It's not technically the oldest part of Louisville (it was actually an early suburb) but it's arguably the city's most colorful district—featuring an array of whimsical mansions and townhouses comprising over 45 blocks, including the spectacular Richardsonian Romanesque-style Conrad-Caldwell House.

Bill Monroe's Boyhood Home

Prior to 2001, the childhood home of the so-called "Father of Bluegrass Music" was in a state of terrible disrepair. Following Monroe's death, the home was purchased by the group now known as The Bill Monroe Bluegrass Music Foundation, who restored it to its original 1917 appearance and outfitted the interior with period furnishings and Monroe family heirlooms. It operates today as the Bill Monroe Museum , offering regular guided tours and musical events. Stop by on select dates for some old-fashioned "Pickin on the Porch."

Henry Clay may have adored his Lexington estate even more than he coveted a good mint julep (the former senator is often credited with the drink's rise to fame). Three years prior to his death, he famously wrote, "I am in one respect better off than Moses. He died in sight of, without reaching, the Promised Land. I occupy as good a farm as any that he would have found, if he had reached it; and it has been acquired not by hereditary descent, but by my own labor." Named for the abundance of ash trees on the property, the home in which Clay lived for most of his adult life is today one of Kentucky's most beloved landmarks. Guided tours of the home are offered on a regular basis; the grounds are open to the public year-round.

Mary Todd Lincoln House

Mary Todd Lincoln's large childhood home in Lexington wasn't built as a house; it served as an inn and tavern before the Todd family moved there in 1832. Though Lexington housed only seven thousand residents in the 1830s, it was known for its sophistication, and the Todds floated in the upper crust of Lexington society. Mary lived in the home for seven years, and is said to have brought her new husband to visit her family there after her marriage in 1842. Tours of the home are offered throughout most of the year. Abraham Lincoln came from more humble roots; stop by the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace in Hodgenville to see a reconstructed version of the log cabin in which the 16th President was born.

T. Jeremiah Beam House

No visit to Kentucky would be complete without a stop or two along the Bourbon Trail. If you prefer to stare at a beautiful old home while downing a glass of America's Native Spirit, head to the Jim Beam American Stillhouse in Clermont for a distillery tour and a photo op in front of the T. Jeremiah Beam house. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been home to generations of Beam distillers. Built in 1911 as a boarding house for distillery workers, it was renovated after Prohibition by T. Jeremiah Beam (Jim's son), who moved into the house to keep an eye on neighboring operations.

Locust Grove

Quite a few American luminaries wined and dined at Locust Grove , the circa 1792 Louisville estate of William & Lucy Croghan. Presidents James Monroe and Andrew Jackson, artist John James Audubon, Cassius Marcellus Clay, and Lewis and Clark are just a few of the prominent figures to have passed through the gates. It also served as the home of Louisville founder and Revolutionary War hero George Rogers Clark (Lucy's) brother, who lived here for the last several years of his life. Today, 55 acres remain with the house, which is open daily for tours.

While you're in Louisville, head over to nearby Farmington , a stunning circa 1816 plantation set on 18 acres offering such festivities as a Derby breakfast and summer jazz festival.

Elizabeth Finkelstein and her husband, Ethan Finkelstein, are the brains behind the popular Instagram and newsletter Cheap Old Houses . Together, they restore historic homes in HGTV’s series Who’s Afraid of a Cheap Old House? Elizabeth grew up in an 1850s home lovingly restored by her parents, so her love for crown molding and peeling wallpaper runs in her gene pool. She holds a master’s degree in historic preservation and has put in years of professional work restoring old houses. While not filming or nurturing the vast and wonderful @cheapoldhouses community, the couple spends time restoring their own cheap old farmhouse — a little slice of heaven they snagged for a cool $70,000.  

The Old and the Beautiful

35 Most Beautiful Lighthouses in America

This South Carolina Fixer-Upper Is for Sale

An Idyllic Texas B&B is for Sale

A Gigantic Historic Mansion For Just $73,900

A Gingerbread House Fixer-Upper in Mississippi

An Amazing $15,000 Georgia Fixer-Upper

Inside a Beautiful Stone Farmhouse for Sale

This Cute Texas Bed and Breakfast Is for Sale

The World’s Largest Chest of Drawers Is for Sale

How to Run a Successful Blog As a Working Mother

This Hauntingly Beautiful Old Mansion Is for Sale

A Magical Converted Sleigh Mill for Sale

FIND YOUR HOME

Our Communities

Shout out to Kristin Murrow for clear communication and quick responses to ANY question we've had. She has been so patient and kind to us. and she is on top of everything...she's AWESOME!  Also, I want to thank Scott for taking time out of his schedule to meet with us on more than one occasion. That meant the world to us.

Bud is THE BEST! To have weekly calls with our Site Supervisor has been amazing. I was floored to learn that this was part of the James Monroe process. He literally has kept us in the loop every step of the way, and I can tell his heart is in all he does. Thanks, Bud!

I also have to shout out Austin who has, more than once, jumped in to answer any question we had about materials, measurements, the way something might look, etc. We appreciate you, Austin!

Truly, everyone on this team is super kind and GENUINE. Thank you, thank you, thank you ALL for all your dedication and hard work. I truly feel like we're "home.”

- Harold & Shaleta J.

• Visitors Center
• Restaurants
• Arts & Culture
• Partner Communities
• Add Your Business Listing
• Battle Green Tour
• Liberty Ride Trolley Tour
• Charter Tours
• Private Tours
• Itineraries
• Cultural District
• Submit an Event
• Lexington Patriots’ Day
• Getting Around
• Business Index

Historical Lexington Homes Where History Was Made

August 7, 2024

Lexington is filled with an expansive history that has transcended generations. Explore historical homes in Lexington that have made an impact on American History.

Hancock-Clarke House, Setting The Scene For Paul Revere

The Hancock-Clarke House was built in 1698 by Rev. Col. John Hancock I, the grandfather of the Patriot John Hancock. In the year 1775, Paul Revere arrived on horseback to warn Patriot John Hancock and Sam Adams that “The British are coming.” John Hancock and Sam Adams were guests at the Hancock-Clarke House on the night of April 18, 1775. 

The house began as a small one-and-a-half-story gambrel-roofed framed ell containing a living room or kitchen, study, and two chambers. The “new” two-and-a-half-story living space was added in 1734. 

In 1896, the Lexington Historical Society purchased the house and moved it across the street to save it from demolition. The society moved it back to its original location which now operates as a museum. The house was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1971. You can purchase tickets to tour the home and garden at the Lexington Historical Society website.

Morrell-Dana House, The Famous Greek Revival Home

Obadiah Parker built this home in 1800 where it was remodeled into a Greek revival style in 1840. Couple Elizabeth Morrell and Otis Dana lived in this home; they were married by Ralph Waldo Emerson in the Follen Church. During their residence, Morrell and Dana entertained many locals and some historians say that Marquis de Lafayette dined here when he came to visit in 1824. Marquis de Lafayette was a French Aristocrat who made his impact in America when he fought in the Continental Army against the British in the American Revolution.  

Nathaniel Mulliken House, A Memory Of April 19, 1775 

The Nathaniel Mulliken House was the home of the Mulliken family during the Revolutionary War. The Mullikens were first a family of clock and cabinet makers who moved to Lexington from Newburyport in 1751. Tragically, the British burned the family’s home and shop during their retreat back to Boston on April 19, 1775. Eventually, the family moved to Raymond Tavern at 1377 Massachusetts Avenue and then built this new home that we call the Nathaniel Mulliken House across the street from that location in 1780. Now it is a private residence and not available for tours. However, it is still an interesting historical home to see from the outside.

Related Post

September 1, 2024

The Story of Marquis de Lafayette’s Visit to Lexington

In September, Lexington will continue its Lex250 celebrations with the Reenactment of Marquis de Lafayette’s 1824 Lexington Visit. Learn more about Marquis de Lafayette and why he was so influential…

August 31, 2024

Celebrate the Final Moments of Summer in Lexington

Even though summer is starting to wind down, there are plenty of fun things to do in Lexington before kids go back to school.  Lexington Community Farm Founded in 2011,…

August 21, 2024

Which Lexington Tour Is Perfect For You?

At the Lexington Visitors Center, you’ll find three major guided tours that prove the town is a historical goldmine. Whether you like walking tours, or bus tours, or want more…

Please verify you are a human

Click "I am not a robot" to continue

Reference ID:

123 Lexington Avenue,  North Providence, RI 02904

Single Family

Robert Bohlen

RE/MAX 1st Choice

Last updated:

September 7, 2024, 09:53 PM

RI STATEWIDE

About This Home

Welcome to this updated 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch. This home has been updated throughout with a new kitchen, bathroom, floors, and more! The kitchen has brand new cabinets, quartz counter tops, and stainless appliances. The rest of the 1st floor includes the living room, 3 bedrooms, and 1 bathroom. Brand new flooring throughout as well as refinished hardwoods in the bedrooms. The finished basement provides even more living space with a large family room, kitchenette, and another full bathroom. From the basement there is a full walkout to the spacious backyard. The roof is brand new. You're in a great location, central to all amenities. This home is turnkey, ready for its new owner. Schedule your showing today, it's a must see!

Built in 1968

Price Summary

$239 per Sq. Ft.

Last Updated:

1 day(s) ago

Rooms & Interior

Total Bedrooms:

Total Bathrooms:

Full Bathrooms:

Living Area:

1,584 Sq. Ft.

Architectural Style:

Building Area:

Year Built:

Lot Size (Sq. Ft):

Finances & Disclosures

Price per Sq. Ft:

See this home in person

Attend an upcoming open house, contact an agent.

Yes, I would like more information from Coldwell Banker. Please use and/or share my information with a Coldwell Banker agent to contact me about my real estate needs.

By clicking Contact I agree a Coldwell Banker Agent may contact me by phone or text message including by automated means and prerecorded messages about real estate services, and that I can access real estate services without providing my phone number. I acknowledge that I have read and agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.