| Additional Information: | A 'site file' exists for this property. It contains additional information such as correspondence, newspaper clippings, or historical information. It is a public record and may be viewed in person at the Wisconsin Historical Society, State Historic Preservation Office.
The Ephraim Bowen/ W.W. Roderick house is an architecturally significant example of the Italianate style in Green County. Located in the heart of the city's most historic residential neighborhood, the cream brick building is distinguished by its classically-inspired detail: wide eaves supported by modillion-like brackets, a denticulated cornice, and ornate cresting atop its low-pitched hip roof. The two-story structure, built on an L-shaped plan (with rear extensions), is composed of rectangular masses of tall proportion. The proportions are underscroed by tall and regularly disposed windows, surmounted by flat stone lintels, and four chimneys which rise well above the roof ridge. The front entry porch features an entablature which echoes the main cornice, supported by pillars and fluted pilasters. The rectilinear character of the house, and the formality of its ornament, reflect the propriety and prosperity of Brodhead in the decades after the Civil War.
Ephraim Bowen, the original owner of this house, was first established with his brother, Hiram, in the mercantile and produce business in nearby Albany. In 1867 he moved to Green Bay and purchased 2000 acres of pine land and became involved in the lumber business. He later returned to the Brodhead area where he was affiliated with the first National Bank of Brodhead.
W.W. Roderick, a native of Fayette County, Pennsylvania, began business in Brodhead in 1865 as a clerk. In 1878 he established his own business on Center Avenue where he kept a complete general stock, including dry goods, clothing, boots, and shoes. |
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