Nestled in the charming town of Titusville, Florida, the Pritchard House stands as a testament to the elegance and architectural prowess of the late 19th century. This historic gem, located at 424 South Washington Avenue, has captivated visitors for decades with its enchanting Queen Anne style and rich family history. Added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on January 12, 1990, the Pritchard House is not just a beautiful structure but a living museum that offers a glimpse into the past.
The story of the Pritchard House begins with James Pritchard, born in New York City in 1836. After serving in the Confederacy, he met and married Mary Haley Boye in December 1866. The couple relocated to an area near what would become Indian River City, initially known as Pritchard's Landing, after inheriting land from Mary’s grandfather. Captain Pritchard, as he was known, initially ventured into sugarcane and citrus farming before finding his calling in the real estate business.
In 1888, Pritchard organized the Indian River State Bank and served as its president. By 1891, he had commissioned contractor Pleasant J. Hall to build a new home on Washington Avenue for his family, which included his wife Mary, his mother-in-law Frances Delespine Boye, and his children Boud and Kate. Captain Pritchard passed away in 1926 and was laid to rest at Oaklawn Cemetery in Titusville. The house remained in the family, with Boud and his wife, Lola Pauline Smith (affectionately known as Miss Lovie), living there until their deaths. Their daughter Mary continued to reside in the house until 2005, when it was purchased by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners.
The Pritchard House is a stunning example of Queen Anne architecture, a style characterized by its asymmetrical façade, ornate detailing, and eclectic use of materials. The two-story, wood-framed residence is surrounded by a charming white picket fence and is strategically located between two major thoroughfares in downtown Titusville.
The house's main block features a gable front with a sloping front gable wing on the south elevation. The exterior walls are adorned with wood fishscale shingles, adding to its intricate design. One of the most striking features is the decorative ogee-shaped bargeboard with incised scrollwork and drop pendants. The side gable boasts round-arched bargeboard of similar design, enhancing the house's ornate appearance.
A conical tower at the southeast corner complements the canted, two-story porch that wraps around the east and west elevations. Supported by small Tuscan columns with scroll brackets, the porch is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the surrounding views. The house also features three large brick chimneys with corbelled caps and hoods, adding to its stately presence. Resting on a brick pier foundation, the house has retained much of its original charm despite undergoing several restorations.
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In 2003, Mary Pritchard Schuster, the last family member to reside in the house, offered to sell the home to Brevard County with the stipulation that it be restored and used as a Living History House Museum. The county purchased the property for $250,000 and began restoration efforts immediately. Approximately $50,000 was spent on initial repairs, including stabilizing the foundation with concrete footings and hurricane-resistant straps, and restoring the porch to its historical accuracy.
The North Brevard Heritage Foundation took over the renovation efforts, focusing on restoring the interior, including furniture, wallpaper, painting, and flooring. An archaeological dig conducted by the Indian River Anthropological Society in 2005 unearthed various treasures, such as an ink bottle, perfume bottle, square nails, ceramic pieces, and children's marbles, adding to the house's historical significance.
In December 2005, the North Brevard Heritage Foundation unveiled a state historic marker, commemorating the Pritchard House's place in history. This marker serves as a reminder of the house's importance and the efforts made to preserve its legacy for future generations.
The Pritchard House opened to the public in December 2010, offering tours strictly by reservation. Visitors can explore the beautifully restored rooms, each filled with period-appropriate furnishings and artifacts that tell the story of the Pritchard family and their contributions to the community. The house is also available for special events, including weddings, meetings, and private functions, making it a versatile venue for various occasions.
Throughout the year, the Pritchard House hosts special public events, such as Civil War reenactments, exclusive seating for the Titusville Holiday Parade, and themed parties. These events provide unique opportunities for visitors to experience history in an engaging and interactive way.
In conclusion, the Pritchard House is more than just a historic residence; it is a living testament to the rich history and architectural beauty of Titusville, Florida. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking for a unique experience, a visit to the Pritchard House promises to be a memorable journey through time.
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