A Welcome Message from the James Wilkins House

          I was built in 1894 with loving care by James D. and Molly Wilkins.  My design came from a book of architectural plans published and designed by renowned architect George F. Barber.  W.H. Gordon with his crew of many was awarded the contract.  Fretwork was brought in from England, fireplace tile from Italy, and thus I became a stately home, the talk of the county.  Many outbuildings were erected; a carriage house, warm house, summer kitchen and fuel room, ice-house, and a two-seater privy.  Today, much to my dismay, the only original outbuildings that remain are the summer kitchen and warm house.  New additions are the Gazebo & Studio.

          James, a prominent businessman, was involved in many enterprises.  A partner and buyer for the J.D. Wilkins & Brothers Mercantile Store, Director for the Campbellsburg Canning Company, Director of the Campbellsburg Building and Loan Association, and a stockholder in the Hoosier Telephone Company, Incorporated in 1897.

          James and Molly brought me much joy, presenting me with the laughter of children.  Cora and Gretna were the first on the scene as they walked into their new home with their parents.  Then in November of 1894, the twins, John Lee and Lela Frances were born.

          The home remained in the Wilkins family until 1944.  Then came a procession of the many new families which added to my memories: the Colliers, the Chastain's, the Kirks, the Darnaby's, the Foutch's, the Pavot's (who by the way gave me an inside privy, on the second floor no less), then came the Walter's and the Grant's who in turn sold me to its present owner Diane Callahan.

          After two years of extensive renovations, i am once again complete.  Tin Ceilings in the kitchen, back hall and bath, new floors, windows, original woodwork that has been stripped, stained and refinished, a new roof, structural repair, and decor which reflects my past but gives comfort to all who enter my portals.

My exterior is that of a true Painted Lady boasting 13 colors
So I say, WELCOME and I hope you enjoy your visit

Oh! by the way, please don't upset my resident specter,
she gives me great comfort with her presence.