2303 Fletcher's Chapel Rd.

From the NC State Historic Preservation Office, which surveyed this property about 25 years ago...

"Spence and Minnie Suitt were the earliest known occupants of this turn of the century dwelling. The Suitts managed a farm on the adjacent land. Spence Suitt was known for his artistic talents as well; he was a noted songleader and admired for his Spencerian hand. Title to the house eventually passed to the Suitt's son, Vernon. Vernon and his wife, Cleo P. Suitt, also resided in the dwelling until their deaths.

"This two story frame farmhouse is distinguished by the gabled portico which both shelters a second story gallery and provides a stronger distinction than the central roof gable of typical rural residential construction. The hipped roof of the front porch is supported by Tuscan columns with a railing of square spindles. The symmetrical wraparound porch shelters a three-bay facade and a central entrance. The single-leaf panelled entrance door incorporates half-glazing and its design is repeated by the flanking sidelights. A tripartite transom above the door and sidelights provides more light to the central hall.

"Within the wide central hall, unusual decorative features distinguish the stairs. While a conventional wainscoting is found along the wall, the panelling beneath the stringer consists of diagonally laid beaded boards. The handrail, which is fitted with turned spindles, ends in a robust, turned newel post. Wainscoting and plastered walls area present in the other principal rooms. Cornice moulding trims the junction of the walls and the ceilings of flush planks. Doors exhibiting six horizontal panels are set in moulded post and lintel surrounds. Most remarkable of the mantels in the house is the example which incorporates undulate flanking columns; however, more conventional examples include panelling, brackets, flanking columns, and mirrored overmantels."

Minnie Suitt was born Minnie Barbee and graduated from the NC State Normal & Industrial College (now rolled into UNC-G) in 1897.

I grew up running around this house and sliding down the bannister. The house had such amazing dark chocolate woodwork that I see has been painted. I love the fact that what we call The Family Homestead is in such wonderful and loving condition. I would love to walk through it again.

NOTE: Marion Suitt is the son of Cleo and Vernon Suitt, grandson of Spence and Minnie Barbee. I am Marion's daughter.

I enjoyed reading this! I am the new owner and would love to speak with you more and learn about the old place.