Where to Find Cool Historical Houses In Bellingham

If you’re like me you’ll just be driving and notice a house with a cool sign that says, “1886” or “1890” or have someone’s name on it and it’s just like, “WHOA!” I decided to try and list out some of the historical homes in Bellingham that are fun to visit and SHEESH this got into a bigger and bigger project. The City of Bellingham is really the place to go for all things historical — I even used City Hall’s Microfiche and microfilm before. So! let’s do a little time traveling through Bellingham and begin our quest for the Coolest Historic Houses in Bellingham!

The Eldridge Historic District: A Victorian Wonderland

Nestled on a bluff overlooking Bellingham Bay, the Eldridge Historic District is a picturesque neighborhood brimming with homes dating from 1885 to 1910. Strolling through its tree-lined streets feels like stepping into a Victorian-era postcard. Here are some standout gems:

  • Austin House – A grand Neo-Classical beauty, recently restored to its former glory.

  • Bolster House – This Queen Anne stunner, built in 1890, showcases the elegance of brick construction.

  • Canfield House – A charming Queen Anne residence from 1892, offering a glimpse into the area's past.

  • Charles Cissna House – Completed in 1908, this spacious Bungaloid-style home was once the height of fashion.

  • Eckhardt House – A Queen Anne masterpiece featuring a turret porch and ornamental latticework.

  • Hamilton House – Built in 1904 by furniture magnate T.S. Hamilton, this home exudes craftsmanship.

  • Handschy House – A 1904 shingle-style residence, reflecting the prosperity of early Bellingham.

  • Keyes House – This 1893 Victorian structure boasts scalloped shingles and tall bay windows.

  • Loggie House – An eclectic mix of styles, this home was the lifelong residence of artist Helen Loggie.

  • Mason House – A two-story Queen Anne home from 1897, featuring exquisite stained glass windows.

  • Neterer House – Built in 1904 by Judge Jeremiah Neterer, this Bungaloid-style home reflects early 20th-century sensibilities.

  • Pettibone House – Dating back to 1887, this home remains largely unchanged, offering a true window into the past.

  • Schramm House – An architectural curiosity combining Russian-American influences with classical lines.

  • Siemons House – Built in 1903 by a family of lumbermen, this classic box-style home is both sturdy and stylish.

  • Van Zandt House – A testament to Victorian extravagance, this home showcases the versatility of wood craftsmanship.

The Eldridge District is a living museum, where each home tells a story of Bellingham's rich history.

Beyond Eldridge: More Historic Marvels

Pickett House – 910 Bancroft Street

Built in 1856 by U.S. Army Captain George Pickett, this is Bellingham's oldest house. Constructed with lumber from the nearby Roeder-Peabody Mill, it stands as a testament to the city's early days.

J.J. Donovan House – 1201 Garden Street

This 1890 Stick/Eastlake and Tudor Revival home was once the residence of industrialist J.J. Donovan. Its architectural elegance reflects the prosperity of Bellingham's past.

Victor A. Roeder House – 2600 Sunset Drive

Completed in 1910, this Arts and Crafts-style home features intricate woodwork, Steuben lighting fixtures, and even a secret passageway. It's open to the public and often used for events.

Dr. William H. and Frances C. Axtell House – 413 E. Maple Street

Built in 1902, this Classical Revival home was a hub for political and social gatherings, reflecting the progressive spirit of its owners.

Alfred L. Black House – 158 S. Forest Street

Also known as the Wahl House, this 1903 Queen Anne-style mansion boasts 10 bedrooms, a ballroom, and a wraparound porch. It's a true architectural gem.

Robert I. Morse House – 1014 Garden Street

This 1895 Queen Anne-style home, affectionately known as the "Blue Mansion," was built by hardware store owner Robert Morse. Its turreted roof and ornate details make it a standout.

George Bacon House – 2001 Eldridge Avenue

Designed by Henry Bacon, architect of the Lincoln Memorial, this 1906 home features Classical Revival elements and a grand portico.

T.G. Richards and Company Store – 1308 E Street

Built in 1858, this is the oldest brick building in Washington State. Originally a storehouse during the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush, it later served as a courthouse.

Lottie Roth Block – 1106 W. Holly Street

Constructed in 1891 using Chuckanut sandstone, this Romanesque Revival building was initially an office/retail space before becoming apartments.


Addresses for Your Historic House Hunt

Check out all the details of Eldridge’s District on City of Bellingham’s website!

In Summary — Go Enjoy some Local History!

So, grab your walking shoes and embark on a delightful journey through Bellingham's architectural history. Each of these homes offers a unique glimpse into the city's past, this is just a tiny scratch on the surface of historic homes, and who knows—you might just find your dream historic home along the way!

Compass Bellingham Real Estate

Thank you for reading "Where to Find Cool Historical Houses In Bellingham"

Bellingham, WA | Compass Real Estate

A Bellingham local since 2013 Lauren has a deep love for this town and the people in it.

She works as a Broker at Compass elevating the stagecraft of real estate through marketing. This Blog is her personal playground to explore Bellingham through writing.

If she’s not working or writing, you’ll find her on stage performing, volunteering her marketing skills, and enjoying a pastry and a white chocolate mocha somewhere in town with her husband and friends.

https://www.ILoveBellingham.com
Next
Next

Next Chapter Café at Village Books: Sweet + Savory Nibbles