Rowley House

The Rowley House is one of several buildings on the tour that can be classified as “vernacular” architecture. “Vernacular” is actually a term from the study of linguistics that refers to the ordinary, everyday language used by a particular population, at a particular time and place. But the term has been adopted by historians to refer to buildings that are built without benefit of an architect, and according to more or less standardized plans tailored to the basic needs of a local population. With vernacular residential architecture, the aim of the builder is to meet the need for comfortable, dependable shelter, with economics being a decisive part of the mix. The Rowley House is one of several well-preserved examples on this tour, of early 20th-century vernacular architecture. Apart from the siting, the only truly dramatic aspect of the structure is its soaring, steeply-pitched roof lines— which are dictated by utility, and not esthetics. Its location and siting, however, afford the building a degree of interest, and even a sense of prestige, that does not ordinarily attach to vernacular design. Constructed on a low rise, and fronted by a concrete retaining wall, the house appears entirely congruent amongst the larger, more elaborate buildings it neighbors. Its original owner, Thomas C. Rowley, was a longtime resident of the city, who worked in the local banking industry and also served as both county clerk and county treasurer, in the 1930’s.