Thursday, September 25, 2008

Frank Grisez Home ~ 1904







This lovely victorian sits proudly within a wonderfully treed neighborhood at 511 Butte Street in Yreka. It stands amidst many other fine homes in this historic quarter. It was originally built in 1904 by Ferninand Grisez, a local "capitalist" as a wedding gift to his son, Frank. Ferninand's stately brick home sits directly next door and to the west.

It was mentioned in a broadcast once shown by the Yreka Community Television, that when this home was built the local newspaper made an amusing comment about Butte Street ~ apparently there were so many newlyweds that lived on Butte Street at the time the editor thought they should rename the street to "Honeymoon Avenue".

Frank Grisez and his bride, Mary lived in this house for only 3 years or so and then they moved to Ashland, Oregon. Frank earned his living as a surveyor and as a Civil Engineer. Frank Grisez was born in 1864 and died at 47 years in October of 1912 while living in Ashland, Oregon.

At a "Home Tour" (viewed on Yreka Community Television) in 2002 the owners of this home reported that in 1905 the assessed value for this home was $1,100 and the property tax bill for the year was $17.60. The home is in lovely condition today and the owners, among other things, have completely refurbished the floors in the home to the original tongue and groove pine.

If the opportunity presents itself to drive down Butte Street, just back of the Siskiyou County Courthouse Square, be sure and take this short "tour" and enjoy the lovely homes on this street!
Copyright 2008, Claudia East.

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