{SOLD}Historic Goodnow Home in Howell, MI

The Goodnow Home at 106 Lake Street, Howell, MI, stands as a living monument to the storied past of Howell's early days. Built in the mid-1890s for William Jubb, a farmer who moved to town after decades of rural life, this home is more than just a residence; it is a historical narrative woven into the fabric of the community. Its Victorian-style architecture, combined with personal stories of the Jubb and Goodnow families, lends the house a unique place in Howell’s heritage.When stepping through the doors of this two-story cross-gable home, one is immediately greeted by the charm of original design elements, such as the meticulously preserved nine-over-nine lighted double sash windows on the main floor. These windows, accented with scalloped lintels, have bathed the interior in natural light for over a century, and the bay windows offer a sweeping view of the neighborhood, just as they did when Grace Jubb married Don Goodnow in front of them in 1902.

Home enthusiasts will marvel at the care that has gone into maintaining historically accurate finishes, including the natural hardwood floors that have weathered generations of use, preserving the character of the past. The house’s stone foundation and classic Michigan basement reflect the sturdy, timeless construction of the late 19th century, while the elaborate woodworking details—sunburst and tree motifs in the gables—are reminiscent of a time when craftsmanship was as much art as it was function.

The house was more than a home for the Jubb and Goodnow families. It was a community hub, where neighbors gathered and family events were celebrated. After William Jubb’s death in 1904, his widow Rebecca remained in the house until her passing in 1926. Their daughter Grace and her husband, Don Goodnow, then moved in. Don was a well-known clothier in the Jewett Building downtown, a figure of prominence in the community, making the home not just a place of residence but a cornerstone of local history.

Even with its deep historical roots, modern updates ensure the home is livable and comfortable by today’s standards. A recently updated HVAC system keeps the house cozy year-round, and the electrical system has been fully modernized. The sewer line to the street has also been replaced, combining 19th-century charm with 21st-century reliability. Yet, despite these updates, the house retains its historic essence, especially seen in the porches, which have been renovated using antique brick to match the original structure.

The exterior is just as captivating as the interior, with a two-car garage and attached pole barn or carriage house, offering ample space for storage or hobbies. The beautifully maintained perennial garden, lush and vibrant, harks back to the days when Victorian gardens were an extension of the home’s elegance and character.

For history enthusiasts, the Goodnow Home is a perfect blend of historical significance and modern livability. Its story—starting with William Jubb, an English immigrant and farmer, and moving through the generations of Jubbs and Goodnows—is intertwined with the growth and evolution of Howell itself. Whether it’s the intricate architectural details, the stories of family weddings held by the bay windows, or the sight of those hardwood floors that have seen over a century of footsteps, this house is a piece of living history.