C.S. Stearns House

The C.S. Stearns House is a residential building from 1885 featuring decorative brick chimneys, handcrafted wood details, and a prominent semicircular bay projecting from the main facade. The structure has an irregular floor plan with multiple roof sections and varying surface textures that define the Queen Anne approach.

The house was built in 1885 for C.S. Stearns, a local merchant and banker who ran C.S. Stearns & Bros and the First National Bank. Its construction during this period reflects how business leaders of that era used impressive homes to affirm their economic position.

The house shows the Queen Anne style that became fashionable among wealthy residents in small Iowa towns during the late 1800s. The architectural approach reflected how successful businesspeople displayed their status through ornate design choices.

The house is located on Main Street in Garden Grove and can be viewed from outside. The site is easy to reach on foot, and visitors can study the architectural details from the street level.

The house was placed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its importance as an example of local architectural heritage. This designation reflects how the community valued preserving this building as part of its history.

Location: Garden Grove

Inception: 1885

Architectural style: Queen Anne style architecture

Address: Main Street

GPS coordinates: 40.82667,-93.60278

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:05