The History of the Brown-Price House
In the heart of Lansing, Michigan, at 1003 North Washington Avenue, stands the Brown-Price House—a significant symbol of the city’s rich history. This magnificent structure, designed by local architect Darius B. Moon in 1890, embodies the elegance of the Queen Anne architectural style. Today, it serves as a reminder of Lansing’s architectural heritage and invites exploration into the stories it holds within its walls.
Building a Legacy: William Clark Brown
Born in 1848 in McHenry County, Illinois, William Clark Brown ventured to Lansing in 1876, captivated by the booming lumber trade. By 1880, he co-founded W.B. Stone & Co., focusing on lumber and woodwork manufacturing.
In 1883, Brown acquired the lot at 1003 North Washington Avenue, initially sharing it with his partner, William B. Stone. By 1890, it was entirely his, and he hired architect Darius B. Moon to design his new home. Although construction began that year, health issues prolonged the project into the mid-1890s.
Despite these challenges, Brown created a lasting residence until his passing in 1909.
The Price Family’s Stewardship
In 1912, Ella Brown, the wife of William, sold the property to Lawrence and Julia A. Price. Lawrence Price, an Irish immigrant and Civil War veteran, was an entrepreneur involved in various business pursuits, including agriculture, retail, and manufacturing. In Lansing, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to manage several enterprises, such as the original Lansing Brewing Company and the Peerless Motor Company. The Prices lived in the house until Lawrence’s death in 1917. Julia continued to reside there until her passing in 1931. After her death, the property was bequeathed to St. Lawrence Hospital, which is now part of the Sparrow Health System.
An Architect’s Footprint
Darius B. Moon, who was contracted to design the Brown-Price home, had a notable career in architecture. He began as a solo practitioner but, in 1909, partnered with Raymond Spice to establish the architectural firm Moon and Spice.
Moon’s distinctive Queen Anne-style houses made a lasting impact in the greater Lansing area. Throughout his career, he designed residences for several prominent clients, including Ransom E. Olds, the Howland House student co-op, Henry Kositchek, Edward D. Sparrow, Frank Dodge, Judge Person, and H.M. Rogers.
Transitions and Adaptive Reuse
Post-1931, the Brown-Price House underwent several functional transformations:
- 1938-1981: Operated as the Lavey Funeral Home.
- 1982: Acquired by the Michigan State Podiatry Association, which undertook significant rehabilitation efforts in 1983.
- 2018: Served as office space for a law firm.
- December 2022: Purchased by Brian Town and Michigan Creative, marking its latest chapter as a hub for creative enterprise.
Architectural Significance
The Brown-Price House exemplifies Queen Anne architecture with its:
- L-shaped design complemented by a pyramid-roofed square tower.
- Rock-face brown sandstone foundation and sandstone trimmings, including window sills and lintels.
- Ornate wooden details, such as paneled bargeboards, shingled gables, and a paired-bracket cornice on the tower.
Originally, the main entrance was situated near the tower but has since been relocated to a porch on the northeast section.
Today, the Brown-Price House represents Lansing’s architectural depth and its ability to adapt historic buildings for modern use, ensuring that the stories of its past continue to inspire future generations.
Be a part of the Brown-Price House history. Lease space or buy the property! View listings here:
LEASE: https://www.naimidmichigan.com/properties/1003NWashington-Lansing-Lease/
FOR SALE: https://www.naimidmichigan.com/properties/1003NWashington-Lansing-Sale/
