Sidney H. Horner House, Renaissance Revival residence in Helena, Arkansas
The Sidney H. Horner House is a Renaissance Revival residence built with hand-molded brick, featuring seven fireplaces and oak parquet flooring throughout. A two-story east wing was added in 1895, expanding the original structure.
The house was constructed in 1881 by Michael Brennam near the Mississippi River and stands on the former grounds of Fort Curtis. This location held strategic importance during the Civil War Battle of Helena.
The residence served as a photography studio operated by the Gladin family in the mid-20th century, capturing images of blues musicians and community events. This creative use connected the house to the region's musical and social history.
The property underwent restoration beginning in 2001 following a two-year vacancy in 1999, with work focused on preserving its architectural details. Visitors should be prepared for uneven ground and the need to navigate historic structures carefully.
After World War II, the residence was divided into a duplex to comply with GI Bill partnership requirements for returning servicemembers. This conversion reveals how the building adapted to meet post-war housing demands.
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