Smead, David, House

This two-story brick house at 269 East Main Street in Madison, Ohio, was built in 1863 for David Smead, with Robertus Childs named as builder. It is an Italianate residence with a rubble stone foundation, shingle roof, five bays across the front and an ell-shaped plan. Cast iron window hoodmolds are matched by a carved wooden overdoor pediment of the same design. Double brackets and a paneled frieze run beneath the eaves, and three porches carry brackets. The tall windows hold six-over-six panes, and the fourteen rooms retain some original wallpaper and paint. The house stayed in one family until 1957. Smead's son James Porter was principal stockholder of the Exchange Bank and served two terms in the Ohio Legislature. Samuel was a physician and surgeon, Sarah a teacher, and David established a basket factory. The property is described as one of the finest detailed Italianate structures in the village. It sits on less than an acre with extensive gardens and a small barn, and remains a residence in excellent condition.