Captain JB Rhodes House

Also known as The Steamer House in recognition of Captain Rhodes years as a steamboat captain on the Mississippi River. He built the house for his young wife Mary Jane, who was the daughter of the founders of Savanna, Aaron and Harriet Pierce. The house was built on the site of the original Pierce log cabin. They raised 5 very successful children in the home. The community historic society has detailed records of the long and successful influence the Rhodes had on the area.

Originally Italianate in design changes have hidden some of the classic eave dental details that remain hidden, yet there, waiting to be uncovered. The exterior walls are a unique triple brick construction that is best detailed in the double brick arches over windows and doors.

The property originally backed up to the Mississippi Rivers edge where Captain Rhodes docked his steamboat,  but decades of fill for a railroad and city park  have set it back further, but the house sets high above seasonal flooding and retains stunning views of river traffic and wildlife. The house sits high above any seasonal flooding.
There is a city boat launch one block north, a city marina six blocks south and the Great River Bike Trail goes by the property.

The current owners have spent two years removing decades of alterations and brought the interior layout back to the original plan. They have removed all lath and plaster ceilings and walls, broken down steam heating system and original nob and tube electrical system. A new roof, new insulation, new electrical system, doors with transoms reinstalled and original window restoration  are completed.

The original cupola was removed decades ago but the structural base remains for it to be replaced.

A wrought iron fence and gate arch are in storage

Work will continue on the property while listed. All current construction supplies and fixtures remain with the property.

The property awaits new owners to finish the restoration and modernization of the historic property

Details

Property ID
673357

4
Bedrooms

4
Bathrooms

Square Footage
3275

Lot Size
.30

Year Built
1851

Style
Italianate

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