Galloway-Radford House Combined Various Styles

Picturing the Past is featuring some of Brevard’s historic homes over the next several weeks starting with those that will be part of the upcoming Historic House Ramble.  In general residential architecture in Transylvania County followed along traditional lines from the time of the county’s establishment until 1895. 

During the boom period of 1895-1916 Brevard experienced significant growth in housing “ranging from the pretentious mansion to the humble mill dwelling” according to Transylvania:  The Architectural History of a Mountain County.

There were numerous good examples of the late Victorian, Queen Anne, and Colonial Revival architecture throughout Brevard.  The Galloway-Radford House combines these styles.  The exterior reflects the late Victorian, Queen Anne form with its asymmetrical features and a wrap-around front porch with rounded corners, smooth classical columns, and a simple balustrade.  The interior has a Colonial Revival stairway and mantels.

The expansive porch provided a view of the river valley
and a cool place to relax.

The home was constructed in 1910 by Thomas Galloway who had purchased property on the outskirts of Brevard overlooking the French Broad River valley to the south of town.  Thomas Galloway was 72 years old when returned to his native Transylvania County with his 26 year old bride, Belle. 

Guests at the Radford House could enjoy a stroll along the nearby
French Broad River.

After Galloway’s death in 1917, Belle married Samuel Radford in 1919.  They continued to live in her home where she operated a boarding house for many years.

Located just over one-half mile from the courthouse downtown the location was quiet and offered one of the best views available.  Although the Galloway-Radford House will not be open for the upcoming Historic House Ramble guests are invited to walk the grounds or sit on the porch and visualize the view as it would have looked 100 years earlier. 

Next week Picturing the Past will feature a couple of craftsman style pebbledash houses.

Photographs and information for this column are provided by the Rowell Bosse North Carolina Room, Transylvania County Library.  Visit the NC Room during regular library hours (Monday-Friday) to learn more about our history and see additional photographs.  For more information, comments, or suggestions contact Marcy at marcy.thompson@transylvaniacounty.org or 828-884-1820.