Offered at $300,000, the historic residence at 140 South Sycamore Street in Campbellsburg, Indiana,
A Restored Queen Anne Treasure at 140 S. Sycamore Street, Campbellsburg, Indiana
Offered at $300,000, the historic residence at 140 South Sycamore Street in Campbellsburg, Indiana, stands as a remarkable example of 19th-century architecture brought thoughtfully into the present day.
This beautifully restored Queen Anne home is more than just a place to live—it is a carefully preserved piece of Indiana history, lovingly rehabilitated to honor its past while providing modern comfort and reliability.
A Home at the Gateway of Town
Originally constructed in 1858, this home was built by John T.C. Wilkins as a two-story farmhouse positioned prominently on Sycamore Street, long considered the gateway into Campbellsburg.
At the time, the property was far more than a single residence. It included a barn, several outbuildings, and even a corner shoe repair shop, making it a small but vital hub of early town life. The house witnessed the growth of Campbellsburg from its earliest days, quietly anchoring the community as generations passed.
In the late 1890s, the home underwent a dramatic transformation under the direction of John’s son, William Wilkins. Inspired by the popular mail-order architectural pattern books of famed Tennessee architect George Barber, William expanded the footprint and reimagined the house in the ornate Queen Anne style.
This renovation introduced the decorative flair, asymmetry, and craftsmanship that still define the home today.
Architectural Beauty That Endures
One glance at the exterior reveals why this property is so special. Eye-catching details such as horseshoe-shaped stained-glass windows, intricate spindled porch work, and elegant proportions give the home a commanding yet welcoming presence.
These elements, hallmarks of Barber-inspired Queen Anne design, are rare to find intact and even rarer to find so carefully preserved.
The home’s grand oak staircase remains one of its most striking interior features, greeting visitors with warmth and craftsmanship the moment they step inside. Original stained glass, decorative mantels, and richly detailed woodwork have been retained, ensuring that the home’s historic soul remains intact despite extensive modern updates.
A Thoughtful, Top-to-Bottom Restoration
The most recent chapter in this home’s story is its comprehensive rehabilitation by Indiana Landmarks, an organization known for its meticulous and respectful approach to historic preservation. This was not a surface-level renovation—it was a full, top-to-bottom restoration designed to ensure longevity, safety, and comfort while honoring the home’s architectural integrity.
The exterior has been completely refreshed with a new roof, rebuilt chimney, updated trim and siding, and a striking new paint scheme that highlights the home’s ornate details. These improvements not only enhance curb appeal but also protect the structure for decades to come.
Inside, the updates are equally impressive. A brand-new kitchen has been installed, offering modern functionality while blending seamlessly with the historic surroundings. The first-floor bathroom features a stylish tiled shower, providing contemporary convenience without feeling out of place.
Major mechanical upgrades include a new main-floor HVAC system and new water heater, ensuring efficient climate control and reliability.
Modern Systems, Historic Character
In addition to visible improvements, the home has benefited from critical behind-the-scenes upgrades. Electrical and plumbing systems have been updated, providing peace of mind for today’s homeowner. Flooring throughout the house has been refinished or replaced where necessary, maintaining the home’s historic aesthetic while ensuring durability.
A new first-floor closet and dressing room add functionality rarely found in homes of this era, demonstrating the careful balance between preservation and modern living. These thoughtful additions make daily life more comfortable without compromising the home’s original character.
Throughout the restoration, Indiana Landmarks prioritized the retention of original features wherever possible. The result is a home that feels authentic, not recreated—a living piece of history adapted for modern use.
Comfortable Living Spaces
The residence now offers three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, making it well-suited for a variety of lifestyles. Whether used as a primary residence, a heritage property, or a distinctive retreat, the layout provides both privacy and flow.
The bedrooms are filled with natural light, and the bathrooms are tastefully updated to meet contemporary expectations while respecting the home’s historic context.
A Lifestyle Connected to Nature and Community
Just steps from the front door, the Monon South Greenway Trail offers miles of scenic pathways perfect for walking, running, or cycling. This trail connects communities across multiple counties, providing a unique blend of small-town living and outdoor recreation.
Few historic homes offer such immediate access to a modern amenity that encourages an active, connected lifestyle.
Preservation with Purpose
The property is subject to preservation covenants held by Indiana Landmarks, which require approval for future exterior changes and mandate the retention of significant interior architectural features.
While these covenants protect the home’s historic integrity, they also offer reassurance to buyers that the property—and its surroundings—will remain architecturally significant for generations to come.
A Rare Opportunity
Homes like 140 South Sycamore Street are exceedingly rare. It is uncommon to find a property that combines documented history, architectural significance, professional restoration, and modern amenities at this level.
Offered at $300,000, this Queen Anne masterpiece represents exceptional value for those who appreciate craftsmanship, history, and thoughtful design.
This is more than a house—it is a legacy property. From its origins as a farmhouse at the edge of town to its transformation into a Queen Anne showpiece and its careful preservation today, this home tells a story that continues with its next owner. For those seeking character, quality, and a meaningful connection to the past, 140 S. Sycamore Street is truly one of a kind.
