Presidents Day (Harding Home)

In honor of President's Day, we've put together a few posts showcasing the beautiful, historic Ohio homes once owned by former Presidents. With 7 Presidents to its name, Ohio has plenty of real estate fit for a Commander-in- Chief. Take a look:

Warren G. Harding Home - Marion, Ohio

http://www.hardinghome.org/

It’s hard to make your way through Marion, Ohio without catching a glimpse of something associated with prolific former president Warren G. Harding; from the beautiful marble memorial in his honor, to Marion Harding High School, to a plethora of roads, businesses, and locations bearing his name. One such location is the historic Harding Home, located downtown on Mount Vernon Ave. Harding, who became the 29^th President of the United States in 1921, launched his bid for the candidacy from the front porch of the expansive Queen Anne style mansion in Marion. Florence, Harding’s own wife designed the house, which was erected in 1890 the year before their marriage; the couple would end up making it their home for 30 years until his presidency. A second building stands on the property behind the main home as well that served as Harding’s primary campaign headquarters. 

After Harding’s death in 1923, Florence bequeathed the home to the Harding Memorial Association, who eventually passed it on to the Ohio Historical Society. It now operates as a museum and memorial for the purpose of preserving the President’s memory and educating others. Almost everything in the house is original or restored and gives great insight into the lives and times of the Harding’s during their stay. The house contains a reception hall, parlor, Harding’s own office, dining room, 4 bedrooms, and a bathroom on the second floor, along with the expansive, elaborately decorated front porch. The one time campaign headquarters now serves as a museum with exhibits on Mr. and Mrs. Harding, as well as their “First Dog” Laddie Boy, an Airedale Terrier that happens to be the first presidentially owned pet covered extensively by the press. The museum is open Monday and Tuesday by appointment only, with hours noon to 5 PM Wednesday through Sunday. 

While the Harding Home isn’t on the market to become your own Presidential palace, Marion is not in short supply on stately mansions. Just a mile from the home of one of America’s most well respected Presidents will find you at 1003 Vernon Heights Blvd, also known as the historic Isaly Mansion. This 6,400 Square Foot home sits on 1.4 acres of gorgeous scenic property containing woods, gardens, and ponds, as well as a 30x30 extra detached garage (perhaps you could start your own bid for the presidency there?) The inside is just as impressive as the beautiful exterior; it contains a giant updated kitchen with cherry cabinets, corian countertops, and a huge central island. The third floor holds an actual ballroom converted into a large recreation room fit for your very own inauguration party. The Master Suite comes with soaring cathedral ceilings, it’s very own fireplace, and 2 walk-in closets, as well as an attached Whirlpool Bath and skylights. Total, Vernon Heights offers 5 fireplaces, beautiful hardwood flooring, a slate roof, and your very own private Verandah with 5 bedrooms and 3.5 baths for a stunning price of only $374,900. All this, and the right to boast you live in the neighborhood of a former U.S. President? More than worth it!