John Calvin Stevens House

The John Calvin Stevens House is a residential building in Portland's West End district known for its distinctive architectural style. The structure features a rusticated brick foundation on the first floor topped by a large gambrel roof that extends prominently through the second story and attic space.

The house was built in 1884 as one of Portland's earliest examples of Shingle Style architecture, a new American building form of that era. Its designer John Calvin Stevens, a leading regional architect, lived there until 1919 and profoundly influenced local building practices of the late 1800s.

The house takes its name from architect and resident John Calvin Stevens, who designed it according to his own vision. Recognition from international architecture experts made it a notable example of local building craftsmanship of its era.

The original entrance on the north side was moved to the west side of the building, where visitors now enter through a rectangular porch. Before visiting, check ahead since this is a protected private residence with limited public access.

The property borders Portland's Western Cemetery to the south, and despite numerous changes over the decades, it retains many original interior finishes. This proximity to the cemetery gave the house a sheltered setting within the busy neighborhood.

Location: Portland

Architects: John Calvin Stevens

GPS coordinates: 43.64667,-70.27500

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:42