MOUNT VERNON — The house in which Dan Emmett was born in Mount Vernon is getting much needed attention. The major part of the work is a new standing-seam roof and new siding.
The 195-year-old home was built on a lot near the intersection of what is now South Mulberry Street and West Ohio Avenue by Emmett’s father, Abraham in 1814.
It has survived two moves. In 1954 it was moved to North Gay Street to a lot that is now between the water department office and the Municipal Building. Then, in 1974, it was moved to its present location on a bluff above the Kokosing River near The Station Break. The large, grassy area is owned by the city of Mount Vernon. The Dan Emmett home is owned by the Knox County Historical Society.
KCHS Director Jim Gibson said the last update completed on the house was six years ago when it was repainted. The roof was 50 years old and was painted several years ago as an Eagle Boy Scout project.
Cedar siding for the current project was chosen, Gibson said, because it is believed to be much like the home’s original siding. The rough side of the boards are on the outside so the paint will be more endurable. The siding was primed, painted and installed. It will then be given a second coat.
Gibson said the society’s board of directors has been planning for the work and saving to have the necessary funds available.
Some interior work will be done as well, with Vickie Kinney volunteering to paint some of the walls, Gibson said.
All the work is scheduled to be completed by the opening of the Dan Emmett Music and Arts Festival next Thursday.
The home will be open with tour guides Saturday, Aug. 15, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
On the grounds beside the home will be Civil War reenactors, both Union and Confederate troops, cannon fire and battle scenes.
