This Victorian beauty is the Goldsmith-Donovan House in Huntsville, Alabama. Located in the Twickenham Historic District. It was built inn 1887 by Oscar Goldsmith who was a leading citizen and entreprenuer that invested heavily in real estate and textile mills. This home was one of the first built on Franklin Street after the Civil War. It began as a simple two-story cottage, but when William C. Wheeler bought it for his residence in 1890, it underwent significant renovations. Wheeler added the Italianate tower, a grand staircase, and even a two-story addition in the rear of the home. He also converted the home to electricity.
The house survived through two world wars, depression, and even a considerable fire. Vivian Hester Donovan purchased the house in 1955, turning it into apartments and covering many of its historical charm. After a period of neglect, it was purchased by Joe Watson in 1997 and restored to its former glory. What a beautiful part it plays in the history of Huntsville!
