Comstock, Zephnia, Farmhouse
Why it's listed
Set close to Route 20 on a small rise just southeast of Cazenovia village, this farmhouse dates from about 1830. The main block is a two-story, five-bay frame building with clapboard siding, a gable roof with cornice returns and a symmetrical center-hall plan. Its center entrance stands out, with fluted pilasters, sidelights, a transom and molded corner and center blocks, details more refined than most rural farmhouses of the period. Inside, panelled wainscoting, a parlor mantel and original chestnut floors survive. A late nineteenth century barn stands to the east, and a mid-twentieth century shed sits behind. The house was listed as a well-preserved example of vernacular Federal architecture that still follows older regional building habits even as Greek Revival style was arriving in Cazenovia. It probably belonged to a prosperous gentleman farmer. Later subdivision reduced the original farmland, and modern roadside development has changed the surroundings.
Significance in brief: The nomination calls the house an important example of vernacular Federal style rural farm architecture of the early nineteenth century in Cazenovia. Its two-story, five-bay, center-hall form reflects long-lasting local building traditions, while its elaborate entrance shows Greek Revival influence. The intact late nineteenth century barn adds to its value as a reminder of the area's farming past.
Machine-generated summary. This summary was generated by a language model from the official nomination document and has not been reviewed line by line by an editor. It may contain errors. Check the source document before relying on any detail. Source: nomination document (PDF) · National Archives catalog entry. NRHP reference 87001866, listed November 2, 1987. Summary generated October 2026 (model claude-sonnet-5-5, prompt v1.0-2026-10-29, confidence medium).
Key facts
| Address | 2363 Nelson St., Cazenovia |
|---|---|
| County | Madison County |
| Listed | November 2, 1987 |
| Reference number | 87001866 |
| Resource type | Building |
| Architect / builder | Architect and builder unknown; local tradition names Zephnia Comstock as the builder of the farmhouse. |
| Architectural style | Vernacular Federal style, with Greek Revival influence in the entrance trim |
| Areas of significance | Architecture, Agriculture |
| Level of significance | Local |
| Status (as stated in the nomination) | Private residence in good condition; the form lists no known threats to the building. |
| Acreage | 2 |
| Coordinates | 42.92505, -75.83814 (NPS GIS) |
What listing means for this property
National Register listing is honorary: it recognises significance and does not restrict what a private owner may do without federal money or permits. It unlocks the 20% federal rehabilitation tax credit for income-producing buildings, state credits in many states, and Section 106 review when federal agencies are involved. See what listing means in practice.
General information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change; confirm with your State Historic Preservation Office or a qualified adviser.
Sources and further reading
- National Park Service, National Register of Historic Places database (snapshot May 2026), reference 87001866.
- Nomination form (PDF, National Archives) — catalog entry
- Wikipedia article (used for cross-checking only; text not reproduced here)
- Wikidata Q8069297
- This listing as JSON
Last updated October 2026. Found an error? See the editorial policy for how to report it.