(Submitted photo)
By Devynn Barnes
Saved from the ominous fate of a wrecking ball, the McShane House in Carmel is one of the city’s most prized historic possessions. The house is believed to be the first one ever built in Carmel in the early 1800s, and it has undoubtedly been through a lot since. Since it was saved from disrepair by the Carmel Clay Historical Society, the Carmel Historic Preservations Commission, and Indiana Landmarks, the house has taken on new life. Emily and Paul Ehrghott recently bought and restored the house, making it shine as a historical landmark in Carmel as well as their family home. On April 16, the public is welcomed to attend a Spring Tea hosted by the Historical Society and featuring a special presentation by Emily Ehrgott about the renovation process.
Whitney Dennis, Executive Director of the CCHS, says the event will be full of interesting stories and details about the life of the house.
“It had fallen into disrepair,” Dennis said. “It was an eyesore and the structure wasn’t safe, but the historic value seemed to override that, and people were interested in keeping it because of its place in the community.”
Today, the house is a beautiful testament to hard work and preservation. Emily Ehrgott, who will be speaking about what it took to renovate the disheveled house, took on the project with her husband Paul and turned the McShane house into a home.
“The renovation still maintained all of the home’s historical integrity. The whole renovation process was interesting for the community to watch,” Dennis said.
The Spring Tea for the McShane House will begin at 2 p.m. at Woodland Country Club in Carmel and feature coffee, tea, light sandwiches, desserts and wine for purchase. In addition to the presentation by Ehrgott, Hilda Hadley, longtime Carmel resident and member of the CCHS, will be honored with the Heritage Award at the event. Tickets are $30 must be reserved prior to attending, either by phone or email. Call 317-846-7117 or email [email protected] for more information.
