Wheel of Fortune

The Wheel of Fortune is a five-bay brick structure with a gable roof south of Leipsic in Delaware, featuring a two-story rear wing and several outbuildings such as a meat house. The roughly one-acre property sits along Delaware Route 9 and has been documented through the Historic American Buildings Survey.

Built in the 18th century, the house belonged to Congressman John A. Nicholson until 1888, when it passed to new ownership before Senator James H. Hughes purchased it in 1910. This succession of owners reflects the property's ongoing significance in local affairs.

The Georgian architecture displays the balanced proportions and symmetrical design principles typical of early American residential building. The visible details of the facade reflect the careful craftsmanship of that era.

The property sits along Delaware Route 9 south of Leipsic, making it easy to locate when traveling the road. Visitors should keep in mind this is a private property where access from the road may be limited.

The name comes from a land parcel along Muddy Branch that predates John Chance's acquisition in 1738, even though local stories sometimes connect it to his surname. This origin of the name is often overlooked when visitors learn about the property's past.

Location: Delaware

Architectural style: Georgian architecture

GPS coordinates: 39.21470,-75.51280

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:07