Property Description

This 1907 American Foursquare is a cornerstone of the Historic Midtown community. Built for Elizabeth Stoughton and later owned by Dr. J.I. Evans, the estate gained national significance in 1952 when General Ralph ''Snapper'' Truman hosted his cousin, President Harry S. Truman, for a three-day residency. Original Secret Service wiring remains visible in the back stairwell.The interior features solid mahogany woodwork, coffered ceilings, and oak flooring in a rare diamond pattern. The parlor is anchored by an Italian marble fireplace and an alabaster newel post light sourced from the 1904 World's Fair. Modern living is supported by a chef's kitchen with soapstone counters and a 2-story family room addition with under-floor radiant heat and dual central AC. The .75-acre grounds include three original brick outbuildings, one housing a 2-car garage with a 473 sq ft guest studio above. The hipped roof was recently replaced to replicate the original slate tiles, terra cotta caps, and ridge lines. Historic Provenance & OwnershipDesigned with classical details, this 1907 American Foursquare was built for Elizabeth Stoughton, a widowed businesswoman and part owner of the Springfield Street Railway Company. A decade later, prominent Springfield physician Dr. J.I. Evans purchased the home; his engraved carriage step remains on the property today. In 1951, General Ralph Snapper Truman, cousin to President Harry S. Truman, acquired the estate. During a 35th Division Army Reunion in 1952, the President resided here for three days. To accommodate the visit, the Secret Service installed dedicated wiring throughout the home, some of which remains visible in the back stairwell. Previous owners include former Springfield Mayor Tom Carlson and current owner Danny Crisp.Architectural Exterior & GroundsConstructed of cut stone and bronze brick, the home is dominated by a massive 10-foot-deep wraparound porch. The roof rests on Ionic columns with painted terra cotta capitals set upon stone piers. The porch steps, lintels, and sills are all solid cut stone. A matching porte-cochere extends across the driveway. The exterior features wide eaves decorated with modillions and dormers with sawtooth shingle siding.The .75-acre corner lot is enclosed by wrought iron fencing and features a stately manicured garden with wisteria, roses, and hydrangeas. The rear yard contains three brick outbuildings, including the original smallest structure which predates the main house. This includes two detached garages (3 stalls total) and a potting shed adjacent to four raised garden beds. The hipped roof was recently replaced with a system that closely resembles the original slate tiles, terra cotta caps, and ridge lines.Main Level & World's Fair ArtifactsThe front room, parlor, and dining room offer an open flow, separated only by colonnades featuring Ionic columns that replicate the exterior design.1904 World's Fair: The Italian marble fireplace in the parlor and the alabaster newel post

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