Greenfield Historical Society announces annual Tour of Homes

Sunday, Dec. 2, will be the Greenfield Historical Society's Tour of Homes. The tour will run from noon-5 p.m.

This year's event includes three homes, the First United Methodist Church, and the University of Dayton's nativity display.

On the tour this year is Michelle Brown at 406 North Street; Susan and Jim Thompson at 402 North Washington Street; and Judy Thomas at 1168 Kline Road right off of state Route 138 NE.

Michelle Brown's home was built in 1900 as a single-family home, but was later turned into a duplex. In 2005, it was completely gutted and renovated with only the central stairway and banister saved.

Michelle has lived in the home for five years. She loves the 18-inch stone walls which give her deep window ledges. She describes her style as modern and clean. She plans to light up her home for Christmas with lanterns.

Susan and Jim Thompson live in a home built in 1901. In 1945, Susan's Grandmother Caplinger bought the house and rented part of the home to Susan's Grandmother and Grandfather Schiller.

Susan could visit both sides of the family at the same time. Susan describes her style as junkyard to antiques or eclectic. She has many family furniture pieces in her home, including Grandmother Caplinger's barrister bookcase, Grandmother Schiller's secretary and Great-Grandmother Schiller's rocking chair. She also has many interesting antiques and collectibles throughout the house.

Judy Thomas's home was built in 1972 on farm land. Her family is the only family to have lived in this home. Judy has a love for Eastlake furniture and many examples are found throughout her home.

She describes most of her furniture as throw-aways or cheap auction buys which she has refinished or reupholstered to fit her style and home. People will be amazed as they explore every nook and cranny in her house.

The First United Methodist Church is opening its doors to share its 100-year-old building. Located at 405 South Street, the present building was dedicated in 1912, having replaced the 1902 church that was destroyed by fire in 1910. Come and enjoy the beautiful stained-glass windows and the newly decorated interior.

Complete the tour with a visit to the Konneker Education Museum at 245 South Street to see the beautiful nativities on loan from the University of Dayton's Marion Library.

Forty nativities from many different countries and cultures will be on display.

"At the Manger: Peace on Earth" is the 2012 theme for the University of Dayton displays. The focus is on the timeless Christmas message of peace. A Christmas tree will also display 100 small nativity ornaments. There is no charge for viewing the nativity display.

Another tradition is the baked steak dinner available at the Grain and Hay Building at the east end of town. Many people come in before starting the tour. Dinner will be from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. or until sold out. The $8 meal will consist of baked steak, mashed potatoes, green beans, roll, cake and beverage.

The society appreciates all the hard work these people have done to open their homes at such a busy time and help make this project a success. Mark your calendars and come enjoy the tour.

Tickets are available at the Home Building and Loan starting Nov. 23 through Dec. 1. Tickets may be purchased at the Grain and Hay building or at the homes on the day of the tour.