Historic Grandeur Reimagined: The Gillmer House on Millionaires Row
Set along the prestigious Millionaires Row in Warren, Ohio, the Gillmer House stands as a breathtaking reminder of 19th-century elegance, innovation, and architectural mastery.
Priced at $124,800, this remarkable property at 720 Mahoning Ave NW offers a rare opportunity to own a true piece of American history—one that is ready for its next chapter.
Built in 1854, this stately residence reflects the timeless beauty of Early Greek Revival architecture. From the moment you approach the home, its commanding presence is undeniable.
In an era when guests would arrive by horse-drawn carriage, the home was designed to impress from the very first glance—and it still does today.
The grand exterior features iconic elements of the style, including prominent pillars, intricate dental molding, and distinctive round frieze windows, each contributing to the home’s stately and symmetrical appearance.
Yet, beyond the visible beauty lies a level of craftsmanship and ingenuity that truly sets this home apart. Hidden details, such as the impressive 19-inch trough gutter system, showcase the thoughtful engineering that went into its construction—an example of how form and function were seamlessly combined even in the 1800s.
Step through the front door, and you are immediately transported to another era. The foyer welcomes you with soaring 12-foot ceilings and a magnificent grand staircase that serves as the centerpiece of the home.
It’s easy to imagine the original owners hosting elegant gatherings, with guests being greeted and ushered into the parlor for tea beside one of three hand-carved marble fireplaces. These fireplaces, rich in detail and history, remain one of the home’s most treasured features.
The home’s historical significance extends far beyond its architecture. Originally built for General McLain, the property later gained prominence under the ownership of Elmer Gillmer in 1894.
Gillmer, the founder of a local electric company, brought modern innovation to the home, making it the first residence in the area to feature electric lighting. This groundbreaking advancement placed the home at the forefront of technological progress during its time.
It was also among the first homes locally to include indoor plumbing and pane glass windows—luxuries that were considered revolutionary in the late 19th century.
Over the years, the home has served multiple purposes, including a period as the home of the Trumbull Art Guild. This creative legacy adds yet another layer of character, suggesting that the home has long been a place where art, culture, and history intersect.
Today, the Gillmer House offers an expansive 4,178 square feet of living space, providing endless possibilities for customization and restoration. The current layout includes three bedrooms and three bathrooms, with two full baths and one half bath.
Upstairs, a particularly impressive 34-by-14-foot space presents the perfect opportunity to create a luxurious primary suite tailored to modern tastes while preserving the home’s historic charm.
Two of the existing bedrooms are connected by a convenient Jack-and-Jill bathroom, making the upper level both functional and flexible. Additionally, a second-floor laundry room—accessible via a secondary staircase—adds a level of practicality that complements the home’s grandeur.
The attic space further enhances the home’s potential. The first section has already been finished with lath and plaster, complete with decorative chair rail detailing, while the second area provides ample storage or the opportunity for further development.
Whether you envision a studio, additional living quarters, or simply extra storage, the possibilities are vast.
Heating systems in the home reflect its unique layout and history. The front portion of the house is equipped with boiler heat, maintaining the traditional warmth of the original structure, while the rear staff wing features forced air heating, offering a more modern solution.
This combination highlights the evolution of the home over time, blending historic integrity with updated functionality.
Outside, the property includes a simple yet practical gravel driveway, providing convenient parking while maintaining the historic aesthetic of the home’s exterior surroundings.
What truly sets this property apart is not just its architectural beauty or historical importance, but the opportunity it presents. This is not merely a house—it is a canvas. A chance for the next owner to breathe new life into a landmark, to restore its grandeur, and to write the next chapter in its long and storied history.
Imagine hosting gatherings in the grand parlor, restoring the intricate woodwork to its original splendor, or transforming the expansive upper level into a luxurious retreat.
Whether you are an investor, a preservation enthusiast, or someone with a vision for creating a one-of-a-kind residence, the Gillmer House offers unmatched potential.
Homes like this are increasingly rare—especially at such an accessible price point. It stands as a testament to a bygone era while inviting modern creativity and restoration. Owning this property means becoming a steward of history, preserving its legacy while shaping its future.
FROM ZILLOW