Exciting Changes Ahead for a Historic Home in Columbus
If you’ve strolled down Fifth Street North in Columbus lately, you might have noticed some bustling activity around an intriguing two-story house. Located at 225 Fifth St. N., this historic gem has seen its fair share of stories and experiences over the years, and finally, it’s getting a much-anticipated renovation!
Who’s Behind the Renovation?
It’s Katherine Kerby, a local attorney who became the sole owner of the house in 2022. This journey began after the passing of her husband, Elias Michael Kerby Jr. Katherine faced quite a challenge initially; it took nearly a year to untangle the property’s complicated title. But, it seems her determination is paying off now! Her vision for the house involves converting it into two townhouse units for rent and constructing a separate office space on the property. There’s still a little uncertainty about whether she’ll move her law office into this new space, but plans are certainly taking shape.
A Glimpse into the House’s Past
The house itself is quite a character. Built in the early 1830s, it proudly wears its place on the National Register of Historic Places, nestled in the Downtown Historic District of Columbus. A wooden addition from the 1880s gives it even more charm! Katherine has been diving into the house’s history, piecing together its stories from documents she discovered hidden away in boxes around the property. Given that the house has been in her family since 1922, she’s on a mission to unearth its past.
The earliest record Katherine stumbled upon is from the 1848 Keeler map, which lists Richard Sykes as the owner. However, her family’s ties to the house began when Mike Kerby bought it in a tax sale nearly a century later. Little did he know, that move would lead to a rich family history, filled with resilience and triumph over adversity.
A Story of Immigration and Family
Mike Kerby’s journey to Columbus is particularly meaningful. Fleeing the Armenian genocide in southeastern Turkey, he immigrated to America in around 1910 and opened a dry goods store in downtown Columbus that thrived for nearly half a century. Not long after purchasing the house, Mike married Sadie Bostani, an eighteen-year-old immigrant from Lebanon known for her delicious cooking.
They raised their three children in this very home, sharing laughter and stories while extending hospitality to family members who were also seeking a new life in America. The house became a haven—a nurturing refuge for many.
A Long-Lost Cousin’s Tale
One of the notable stories from this home involves a long-lost cousin named Joseph Hanna, who faced quite an adventure getting to Columbus. Originally from the “old country,” Joseph boarded a train thinking he was headed to Columbus, but he ended up in Columbus, Ohio! After a series of amusing mix-ups and misunderstandings, Joseph finally made it to the right Columbus, guided by a note pinned to his shirt, showcasing the kindness and community spirit that characterized those times.
The Renovation Journey
Fast forward to present day, and Katherine is dedicated to preserving the home’s historic essence through her renovations. She plans to maintain the smooth stucco exterior and the original bricks hidden beneath. Most of the original floors will stay intact along with doors, windows, and staircases. Katherine is even preserving the intricate plaster work on the ceilings!
Interestingly, during the restoration, she discovered remnants of an old kitchen chimney and an advanced aqueduct system, which was quite sophisticated for its time! Among the artifacts unearthed was a stone slab possibly depicting an Armenian symbol for freedom, which further ties the house’s history to Katherine’s familial lineage.
Future Plans and Excitement
While specific timelines for the renovations are still uncertain as she awaits architectural designs, the excitement among local residents is palpable. People are eager to see how this historic house will evolve while embracing its rich past.
Katherine’s efforts are a beautiful nod to the stories of resilience, community, and history encapsulated within the walls of this home. The transformation from a forgotten structure to vibrant townhouses and office space serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit of Columbus.
