With its mansard roof and arched gables—an eclectic interpretation of the Second Empire style—the house at 206 Railroad Street in Battle Ground has been a distinctive landmark since its construction in 1886. After years of deterioration and inappropriate alterations, the house is finally receiving overdue attention.

A partnership between the Wabash Valley Trust for Historic Preservation and local contractor Chris Tabor is restoring the structure as affordable housing, assisted by a loan from Historic Landmarks Foundation and funds from the City of Lafayette. The project will convert the house into two rental units: a two-story three-bedroom unit and a second-floor efficiency apartment.

Supporters hope the restoration will serve as a catalyst for further preservation projects in Battle Ground, a small settlement just northeast of Lafayette in Tippecanoe County.

For more information about the project, contact Historic Landmarks’ Western Regional Office, 812-232-4534 or west@historiclandmarks.org. For details about the Statewide Revolving Loan program for local preservation organizations, contact the regional office nearest you.