“Before & After ~ I met Britt and Keith at my first book signing event for “Restoring Your Historic House” just before Christmas in 2019. They told me about their project house, nicknamed “Old Yeller,” and bought a copy of the book. “Yeller” is just a couple towns upriver from where I live, so was able to follow along with their progress through completion last year. I am happy to be able to share the before and after of the rebirth of “Yeller.”
The c. 1870 Italianate style home was in rough shape when Britt and Keith bought it. It had been vacant and abandoned, leading to vandalism and deterioration. It was trashed. Keith was told he should tear it down and put in a modular home. Fortunately, they saw through the piles of junk, damage, and vandalism to recognize the inherent quality and character of the house.
Nearly all the original interior finishes were repaired and preserved – plaster, trim, floors – while all new electrical, plumbing, and HVAC were put in. Original windows and doors were rehabbed and kept along with exterior trim and siding.
Although the house was rehabbed with the intent to resell, the eight-year project was in no way a “flip.” Flips are fast and cheap, with all the quality that’ll get you (not much). This has been a labor of love and respect for the history and character of the house. The new owners are very lucky to have it!
I wrote “Restoring Your Historic House, The Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners” to give people a one-stop, go-to source for information on all historic house rehab and restoration aspects. It is gratifying to know Britt and Keith’s copy of the book has been well used.
Signed and personalized copies of the award-winning and bestselling 720-page hardcover book are available in our online shop at YourHistoricHouse.com/shop/.
Our shop also carries select preservation and restoration titles by other authors.
© Scott T. Hanson 2025.
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