Have you ever wondered what it’s like to step back in time and explore a piece of living history? The Harrison Smith house stands as a remarkable testament to architectural beauty and historical significance, inviting visitors to discover its timeless house charm. This extraordinary residence isn’t just another old building—it’s a captivating journey through centuries of stories, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage that continues to enchant visitors from around the world.
History of Harrison Smith House
The story of the Harrison Smith house begins in the early 1800s, when visionary entrepreneur Harrison Smith first laid eyes on the pristine plot of land that would become his legacy. Construction began in 1823, during a period of unprecedented growth and optimism in American history.
Smith, a prosperous merchant and philanthropist, spared no expense in creating what would become one of the region’s most distinguished residences. The house took nearly three years to complete, with master artisans brought in from as far as Philadelphia and Boston to ensure every detail met Smith’s exacting standards.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Mendota Heights / Saint Paul, Minnesota |
| Address | Grieve Glen Ln, St Paul, MN 55118 |
| Bedrooms | 4 |
| Bathrooms | 4.5 |
| Square Feet | 3,128 sq ft |
| Architecture Design | Single-family home with glass walls, carpeted floors, unique stone fireplace, spacious bedrooms with walk-in closets, glittering pool, surrounded by lush greenery on five-acre lots |
| Year Built | 1999 |
| Purchase Year | 2017 |
| Purchase Price | $1,650,000 |
| Current Estimated Worth | Around $2.18 million |
| History/Notes | Home is described as a villa with nature-loving ambiance, large dining, family, and living rooms. Offers quality lifestyle in a friendly Minnesota environment. |
Throughout the 19th century, the house witnessed numerous significant events. During the Civil War era, it served as a temporary headquarters for Union officers, and later became a gathering place for influential political figures and intellectuals of the time. The property changed hands several times over the decades, with each owner adding their own touches while preserving the essential character that made the Harrison Smith house so special.
By the early 20th century, the house had become recognised as a national treasure. In 1932, it was officially designated as a historic landmark, ensuring its preservation for future generations. This recognition came at a crucial time, as many similar properties were being demolished to make way for modern development.
The house’s historical significance extends beyond its walls. It represents a pivotal moment in American architectural history, showcasing the transition from Federal to Greek Revival styles that defined an entire era of building design.
Architectural Design and Features
The architectural brilliance of the Harrison Smith house immediately captures your attention from the moment you approach its grand entrance. This stunning example of Greek Revival architecture seamlessly blends classical elements with distinctly American innovations, creating a visual masterpiece that has inspired architects for generations.
Exterior Features
The facade presents an impressive display of symmetrical design, featuring six towering Ionic columns that support a triangular pediment. These columns, each carved from a single piece of white oak, stand 30 feet tall and create an imposing yet welcoming entrance. The exterior walls are constructed from locally quarried limestone, which has weathered beautifully over the centuries to develop a warm, honey-colored patina.
Distinctive architectural elements include:
- Hand-carved cornices with intricate dental moulding
- Original 12-over-12 sash windows with hand-blown glass panes
- Copper gutters and downspouts featuring decorative lion head designs
- A slate roof imported from Welsh quarries, still intact after 200 years
Interior Splendor
Step inside, and you’ll discover rooms that showcase the finest craftsmanship of the period. The grand entrance hall features a sweeping staircase with hand-turned balusters and a mahogany handrail polished to a mirror finish. Original heart pine floors run throughout the luxury house, their wide planks telling stories of old-growth forests long since vanished.
The formal parlour boasts elaborate plasterwork on its 14-foot ceilings, featuring medallions and crown moulding that demonstrate the skill of master plasterers. Each room features unique fireplace mantels carved from different types of marble, imported from Italy and Vermont.
Perhaps most impressive is the library, where floor-to-ceiling built-in bookcases, crafted from black walnut, create an atmosphere of scholarly elegance. Hidden panels reveal secret compartments, allegedly used during the era of the Underground Railroad.
Unique Design Elements
What truly sets the Harrison Smith house apart are its innovative features that were remarkably ahead of their time. The house incorporated an early central heating system using hot water pipes, a luxury virtually unheard of in the 1820s. Smith also installed speaking tubes between floors, allowing communication throughout the house—a precursor to modern intercom systems.
The kitchen area showcases a remarkable collection of period fixtures, including:
- A cast-iron cooking range with intricate decorative details
- Original soapstone sinks with brass fixtures
- A built-in ice house accessible from the pantry
- Copper-lined cold storage areas for preserving food
Notable Residents and Stories
The walls of the Harrison Smith house have witnessed countless fascinating stories and housed numerous remarkable individuals throughout its history. Harrison Smith himself was far more than just a wealthy merchant—he was a visionary who used his fortune to support education, the arts, and social reform.
Born in 1785 to a modest farming family, Smith built his fortune through shrewd investments in shipping and textiles. However, it was his philanthropic spirit that truly defined his legacy. He established the area’s first free library, funded scholarships for underprivileged students, and secretly supported the abolitionist movement.
The Smith Family Legacy
Harrison’s wife, Eleanor Whitman Smith, was equally remarkable. A published poet and advocate for women’s rights, she hosted literary salons in the house’s parlour that attracted writers and thinkers from across the nation. Her personal journals, discovered during a 1987 renovation, provide intimate glimpses into daily life in the house during its golden age.
Their daughter, Margaret Smith-Thornton, continued the family tradition of social activism. During the 1860s, she transformed parts of the house into a makeshift hospital for wounded soldiers, regardless of which side they fought for. Local legends speak of her courage in facing down military officers who demanded she choose sides.
Famous Visitors and Events
The Harrison Smith house attracted numerous distinguished guests over the years. President Martin Van Buren stayed here during his 1840 campaign tour. Author Washington Irving penned several short stories while visiting, inspired by local folklore shared in the drawing room. The renowned abolitionist Frederick Douglass reportedly delivered a secret speech in the cellar to a gathering of sympathisers.
One particularly intriguing story involves the mysterious disappearance of valuable paintings in 1889. The artworks vanished without a trace, only to be discovered 50 years later, hidden behind a false wall in the attic. The investigation revealed that they had been hidden to protect them from creditors during a brief financial crisis.
Ghostly Tales and Mysteries
No historic house would be complete without its share of supernatural stories. Staff and visitors have reported unexplained footsteps on the main staircase, the scent of Eleanor Smith’s favourite lavender perfume in the parlour, and books mysteriously rearranging themselves in the library. While sceptics dismiss these as imagination, they add an extra layer of intrigue to the house’s already rich history.
Present Condition and Preservation Efforts
Today, the Harrison Smith house stands as a shining example of successful historic preservation. Thanks to dedicated efforts from preservationists, historians, and community supporters, the stunning house remains in remarkable condition, allowing visitors to experience its authentic charm just as guests did two centuries ago.
Recent Restoration Projects
The most significant restoration effort commenced in 2015 with a comprehensive five-year project, funded by federal grants and private donations. This $3.2 million undertaking addressed critical structural issues while maintaining the house’s historical integrity.
Significant restoration accomplishments include:
- Complete roof replacement using traditional Welsh slate
- Restoration of all 47 original windows with period-appropriate glazing
- Structural reinforcement of the foundation using hidden steel supports
- Painstaking recreation of damaged plasterwork using 19th-century techniques
The restoration team made several exciting discoveries during their work. Behind layers of Victorian wallpaper, they uncovered original hand-painted murals in the dining room. In the basement, workers found a sealed time capsule from 1923 containing photographs, newspapers, and personal letters from the centennial celebration.
Preservation Challenges
Maintaining the Harrison Smith house presents ongoing challenges that require constant attention and resources. The building’s age means that even with the best care, issues regularly arise. Climate control proves particularly difficult, as modern HVAC systems must be carefully integrated without damaging the historic fabric.
Water damage remains a persistent threat, especially given the region’s changing weather patterns. The preservation team has implemented innovative drainage solutions and monitoring systems to protect the structure while remaining invisible to visitors.
Funding represents another significant challenge. While the house receives some government support, private donations and admission fees provide crucial revenue for ongoing maintenance and upkeep. The Harrison Smith House Foundation works tirelessly to secure grants and organise fundraising events.
Community Involvement
The local community plays a vital role in preserving the Harrison Smith house. Over 200 volunteers contribute their time and expertise, from leading tours to maintaining the gardens. The “Friends of Harrison Smith House” organisation boasts over 1,000 members who provide financial support and advocacy.
Local schools partner with the house for educational programs, bringing history to life for thousands of students each year. These partnerships ensure that future generations will understand and value this architectural treasure.
Visiting Harrison Smith House Today
Planning a visit to the Harrison Smith house? You’re in for an unforgettable experience that brings history to life in ways that books and documentaries cannot match. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to this remarkable historic site.
Location and Accessibility
The Harrison Smith house is conveniently located at 1823 Heritage Lane, just 15 minutes from the downtown historic district. The property is easily accessible by car, with ample free parking available on-site. Public transportation options include the Heritage Route bus line, which stops directly in front of the main entrance.
The house has made significant improvements to ensure accessibility for all visitors. Ramps provide wheelchair access to the first floor, and a new elevator installation allows access to the second floor. Audio guides are available for visually impaired guests, and sign language interpreters can be arranged with advance notice.
Visiting Hours and Admission
Day Hours Last Tour
Monday Closed –
Tuesday-Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM 4:00 PM
Sunday 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM 4:00 PM
Admission prices are kept affordable to encourage visits:
- Adults: $15
- Seniors (65+): $12
- Students with ID: $10
- Children under 12: Free
- Family Package (2 adults + children): $35
Tour Options and Experiences
The standard guided tour of the Harrison Smith house lasts approximately 75 minutes and covers all principal rooms and highlights. Knowledgeable docents share fascinating stories and answer questions, bringing the house’s history to life through engaging narratives.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, several speciality tours are available:
Behind-the-Scenes Tour: This two-hour exploration includes areas typically closed to the public, such as the attic, basement, and servant quarters. Limited to 10 participants, these tours offer intimate insights into daily life in the house.
Evening Candlelight Tours: Experience the house as it would have appeared before the advent of electricity. These atmospheric tours, offered monthly during the winter months, create a magical ambience that transports visitors back in time.
Photography Tours: Serious photographers can book special early morning sessions with exclusive access and optimal lighting conditions. Tripods and professional equipment are welcome during these sessions.
Special Events and Programs
Throughout the year, the Harrison Smith house hosts numerous special events that showcase different aspects of its history and culture:
- Spring Garden Party (May): Period costume encouraged, featuring 19th-century games and refreshments
- Independence Day Celebration (4 July): Historical reenactments and patriotic music
- Harvest Festival (October): Traditional crafts demonstrations and seasonal treats
- Victorian Christmas (December): Elaborate period decorations and holiday tours
Tips for Your Visit
To make the most of your experience at the Harrison Smith house, consider these insider tips:
The best time to visit Is Weekday mornings, which offer the smallest crowds and the most intimate experience. Spring and fall provide the most comfortable weather for exploring the grounds.
Photography: Flash photography is prohibited inside to protect the artefacts, but natural light photography is encouraged. The library and main staircase offer particularly stunning photo opportunities.
What to wear: Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as tours involve stairs and standing. The house maintains period-appropriate temperatures, so dress in layers.
Allow extra time: Plan to spend at least two hours for your visit to fully appreciate the house and its grounds. The gift shop offers unique historical reproductions and books about the house’s history.
Cultural and Community Impact
The Harrison Smith house serves as much more than a static museum—it’s a vibrant cultural centre that enriches the entire community through diverse programs and initiatives. Its influence extends far beyond its historic walls, touching lives and inspiring preservation efforts throughout the region.
Educational Programs
The house’s educational mission reaches thousands of students annually through carefully crafted programs aligned with state curriculum standards. Elementary students participate in hands-on activities, such as candle-making and writing with quill pens. In contrast, high school students engage in more in-depth historical analysis through the examination of primary sources.
The “Living History” program brings particular excitement to the learning experience. Costumed interpreters portray historical figures associated with the house, allowing students to “interview” Harrison Smith or Eleanor about their lives and times. Teachers consistently report that these visits spark lasting interest in history among their students.
Adult education programs offer specialised workshops , including:
- Historic preservation techniques
- Genealogy research using house archives
- Period cooking demonstrations in the historic kitchen
- Architectural history seminars
Community Events and Partnerships
The Harrison Smith house has become a beloved venue for community gatherings that strengthen local bonds while supporting preservation efforts. The annual “Sunset Concert Series” attracts thousands to the grounds for evenings of classical music against the backdrop of the illuminated house.
Local artisans showcase their work during quarterly craft fairs on the grounds, with vendors selected for their connection to historical trades and techniques. These events generate significant revenue while promoting traditional skills.
The house partners with numerous local organisations to expand its reach:
- The Historical Society uses the library for research
- The Garden Club maintains period-appropriate plantings
- The Chamber of Commerce includes the house in heritage tourism promotions
- Local theatres perform period dramas on the lawn
Economic Impact
Tourism centred around the Harrison Smith house generates substantial economic benefits for the local community. A recent study found that visitors to the house contribute over $2.3 million annually to the local economy through:
- Hotel stays and restaurant visits
- Shopping at local businesses
- Attendance at related cultural events
- Employment for tour guides and maintenance staff
The house directly employs 15 full-time staff members and provides seasonal employment for an additional 25 people during peak tourist season. These jobs range from historical interpretation to groundskeeping, providing diverse employment opportunities.
Why Harrison Smith House is a Must-See
After exploring the many facets of this remarkable property, it becomes clear why the Harrison Smith house deserves a place on every history lover’s must-visit list. This isn’t just another historic house tour—it’s an immersive journey through time that offers unique insights into American life, architecture, and culture.
Unparalleled Historical Authenticity
Unlike many historic sites that have been heavily reconstructed, the Harrison Smith house retains an exceptional degree of original fabric and features. When you touch the bannister of the main staircase, you’re touching the same wood that Harrison Smith’s hand polished through daily use. This authentic connection to the past creates an emotional resonance that reproductions cannot match.
The house’s continuous occupation across different eras allows visitors to trace the evolution of American domestic life through tangible evidence. From the original 1820s kitchen hearth to the 1890s modern bathroom addition, each modification tells a story about the changing technologies and lifestyles of the time.
Architectural Significance
For architecture enthusiasts, the Harrison Smith house presents a textbook example of Greek Revival style at its finest. The proportions, details, and craftsmanship represent the pinnacle of early 19th-century American building arts. Architecture students regularly visit to study its design principles and construction techniques.
What makes it particularly special is the complete design vision that extends from the grand facade to the most minor interior details. Every doorknob, hinge, and moulding profile was carefully chosen to create a harmonious whole that few other historic houses can match.
Living History Experience
The Harrison Smith house excels at making history accessible and engaging for modern visitors. Rather than simply viewing rooms behind velvet ropes, guests can sit in period furniture, handle reproduction artefacts, and honestly imagine themselves as 19th-century residents.
The interpretive programs bring this history to life through:
- Costumed interpreters who stay in character
- Hands-on demonstrations of period crafts and skills
- Seasonal decorations that show how holidays were celebrated
- Special events that recreate historical moments
Hidden Treasures and Discoveries
Every visit to the Harrison Smith house presents the opportunity for new discoveries. The knowledgeable docents share different stories and highlight various details, ensuring that repeat visitors always learn something new. Recent archaeological work in the gardens continues to uncover artefacts that enhance our understanding of daily life in the house.
The house’s extensive archives include thousands of documents, photographs, and personal items that researchers continue to study and examine. These ongoing investigations regularly yield new insights that enhance the visitor experience.
A Call to Experience History
Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. The Harrison Smith house awaits your discovery, ready to share its secrets and stories with those curious enough to seek them out. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or simply someone who appreciates beauty and craftsmanship, this remarkable house offers something to inspire and delight.
Plan your visit today and prepare to be transported to an era of elegance, innovation, and American ingenuity. The Harrison Smith house isn’t just a glimpse into the past—it’s a living testament to the enduring power of preservation and the importance of maintaining our connections to history.
Where Does Harrison Smith Currently Live?
Harrison Smith currently resides in the Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota.
