Dates

• Existence: 1917 - 1999

Biography

The magnificent home at 1446 S. Washington Avenue was constructed in 1872 by Timothy B. Corning at a cost of $40,000, a small fortune in those days. Corning built and operated steamers and lumber barges, and was one ofthe founders of the First National Bank of Saginaw City.

Designed as a two-family dwelling, the home contained identical units to the north and south of a central dividing wall. The north half was occupied by Corning's son, Gurdon, a banker and furniture manufacturer; the south half was occupied by Corning's widow, Ann E., and her sister, Anna L. Bartlett, widow of August F., who operated a foundry, machine and galvanizing shop on Water Street.

Combining features of Gothic Revival and Italianate styles, the "Second Empire" structure was both monumental and ornate. Believed to have been designed by noted architect Ludwig V. Buda, the home featured a mansard roof, a hallmark of this style; dome-toped dormers on the third level, ornate cornices and eave brackets, pressed metal window hoods, and iron tracery on the roof. Many of these decorative features were removed in the mid-1900's. The buff colored brick was accented by black mortar.

In 1888 an elegant addition, which includes the present office and dining room extension, was added to the north side of the Corning residence. The Saginaw Evening News reported that the addition "Which in its interior richness of finish, artistic workmanship, combined with all the modern improvements, uniting utility and beauty together, presents a perfect picture of a home of wealth, comfort, and refinement."

In 1913, in response to a recognized need in the community, Wellington R. Burt offered $15,000 for an old people's home to any organization that would raise $10,000 more. The offer was promptly accepted by the Saginaw Women's Club, and the required sum was raised by the end of the year.

The Corning / Bartlett residence was offered to The Home by Mrs. Gurdon Corning, now living in California, at a very reasonable price of $8,000. Included in the sale were a Webber piano, furniture, carpets, and many more personal items of the Corning and Bartlett families. Many additional items were presented to The Home before it was opened to the public.

In January, 1915, W.T. Cooper, architect, was engaged to remodel the building for use as The Home for the Aged. Alterations included removal of the dividing wall and joining of the two entrances into the large foyer we see today.

On May 29, 1916 a public reception was held to introduce The Home to the community, and on August 1, 1917, the first residences, Rev. and Mrs. Rufus Crane, were admitted to the home. In 1931-32 a one-story addition on the south side of The Home increased its capacity to 25 residents.

The interior of the home features the original elaborately molded doors and woodwork. The foyer contains a magnificent pier mirror featuring inserts of hand-painted porcelain, and matching umbrella stands from the two residents. The staircase was reconstructed from parts of the original staircases serving the two homes.

The north drawing room and parlor serve as sitting rooms for today's residents. The original imported crystal chandeliers hang from their twelve foot ceilings. Matching candelabra decorate the original mantelpiece and are reflected in its ceiling-high mirror. The rooms are furnished with graceful antique sofas and chairs.

The dining room features matching carved walnut sideboards displaying antique silver and cut glass. Several of the museum-quality pieces belonged to the Corning family.

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