Gangloff House

Cranberry Township, Crawford County, Ohio

This house isn't notable for its age, but for its lack of age. Upon seeing a cruddy aerial photograph, I assumed it was a mid-19th century structure, possibly log, and probably one of the earliest homes in the township. I was surprised when I actually visited the site.

The yellow brick chimneys and balloon frame construction are indicative of late 19th century construction, though the home's overall appearance seems earlier. I can't quite explain why — the answer lies in its proportions, perhaps — but it just feels old.

The rather featureless front facade. It's difficult to discern, but the porch posts' upper portions curve in an interesting manner. I like the birds perched atop the chimney; they add eeriness to an otherwise boring picture.

The balloon frame construction is plainly visible. Note the original wood shingle roof, mostly covered by standing seam metal.

Not surprisingly, the 1850s and 1873 atlases show nothing at this location. P.J. Gangloff owned the 60-acre farm in the 1850s. By 1873, ownership had passed to Henry Gangloff. The house remained inhabited until at least 1970, as a county directory from that year lists John Kreim as its inhabitant.