Frank and Mary Bookwalter made a statement in 1875 with the construction of one of Ohio’s great wood houses, which was just on the heels of many cities banning the construction of wood homes! This grand house in the French Second Empire Style, designed by local architect Franklin H. Penfield, transformed South Fountain Avenue (SoFo) into one of Springfield’s most fashionable addresses. Join Kevin Rose, former national president of the Victorian Society, on this tour of the SoFo neighborhood. Meet outside First Baptist Church, 638 South Fountain Avenue.
Guided by Kevin Rose / Mobility 1
$15 General / $12 Members
The Summer Tour Series, now in its twenty-first year, examines the architecture, design, and history of the built environment in the Greater Springfield Region. Historians, curators, artists, designers, and other local professionals guide each tour. The 2025 series includes Walking Tours, Happy Hour Tours, Family Tours, Members Only Tours, and Virtual Tours.
Please be advised that we do not mail tickets. You will receive an order confirmation by email. You will be automatically added to the attendee list upon the completion of your order.
Accessibility:
Our tours and programs are developed for a broad audience, including those with disabilities and decreased mobility. Tours move at a leisurely pace with brief periods of standing at tour stops. If entering a building or house, some stairs or inclines may be possible. All tours are assigned mobility levels between 1-3.
Mobility Level 1
Up to 6 blocks walking, mostly flat terrain, paved, stairs not likely. Wheelchair accessible.
Mobility Level 2
May be more than 6 blocks walking, some hills, mostly paved, some stairs possible. Please call or email about wheelchair accessibility.
Mobility Level 3
Considerable walking, various terrains, unpaved areas. All bicycle tours. Please call or email about wheelchair accessibility.
You may also like the following events from Westcott House:
- Next Saturday, 7th June, 10:00 am, Rodgers Place Walking Tour in Springfield
- Next month, 11th June, 05:30 pm, Springfield Burying Ground Happy Hour Tour in Springfield
- Next month, 26th June, 08:00 pm, Bushnell House Virtual Tour in Springfield, Ohio
Also check out other
Arts events in Springfield.
