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 [email protected]
or 828-884-1820.