Photograph by Zac Guyer with Studio Twenty Six Photography
Address: 3540 Clifton Ave., Clifton
Price: $1,299,000
In 1876, Cincinnati native Alfred Traber Goshorn was a popular man. Already celebrated as one of the Queen City’s most influential civic leaders and visionaries, he was hired to serve as the director-general for the Centennial Exposition of 1876 in Philadelphia. He supervised the planning, construction, and operation of the massive fair. More than 200 buildings were constructed across 450 acres, with 37 countries participating. It was considered the first official World’s Fair in the U.S.
Noteworthy displays and demonstrations included Alexander Graham Bell’s brand-new invention (the telephone), the right arm and torch of the Statue of Liberty, Americans’ first glimpse of a typewriter, and the introduction of ketchup. The Exposition was a roaring success, with ten million guests visiting in the span of six months.
Photograph by Zac Guyer with Studio Twenty Six Photography
To recognize Goshorn’s exemplary work, Queen Victoria bestowed the honor of knighthood upon him—the first Cincinnatian to receive this designation. A slew of other countries would celebrate him with medals and accolades, including Spain, Italy, Germany, France, and more. The city of Philadelphia honored him with a library of 5,000 books. Impressively, each one included an engraved dedication to Goshorn.
As one of the ‘Seven Barons of Clifton,’ Goshorn’s wealth and influence extended in many directions, including baseball. He served as the first president of the Cincinnati Base Ball Club (as it was spelled at the time), which would later become the Red Stockings.
Photograph by Zac Guyer with Studio Twenty Six Photography
It’s no surprise that such affluence would reach his personal home, which is now on the market. Built in 1891, the Richardsonian Romanesque mansion was designed by acclaimed architect James W. McLaughlin. Its ashlar stone exterior is striking, with a burst of color appearing in the gambrel roof’s red tile. There is grandeur in the small details, like the turreted oriel or the intricately carved limestone archway leading into the main entrance, with its elaborate curls and elegant flowers. The masonry detail is exquisite, a testament to the high level of craftsmanship from this gilded age.
Photograph by Zac Guyer with Studio Twenty Six Photography
The porch at 3540 Clifton Ave. was once open air but has since been enclosed. Its floor is a work of art (and remains beautifully intact). Neo-classical, mosaic tiles crisscross in vibrant colors, with figure eight borders and a painstaking level of detailing. Not to be outdone, the hefty wood door boasts its own intricate carving, accented by a single glass panel that’s decorated with swirling iron work.
Once inside, the front room is a large yet comfortable space. Exquisite woodwork seems to stretch on in all directions, from the coffered ceiling above to the paneling on the walls and up the staircase, to the ornate door casings with doric column detailing. It’s natural to assume that all this woodgrain would make the room feel dark or heavy, but surprisingly, it remains incredibly bright thanks to a unique design feature. Below the coffering runs a border of laurel wreaths connected via a matching garland. Inside each wreath is a small, single light bulb. When lit, the effect is a lovely, warm glow.
Photograph by Zac Guyer with Studio Twenty Six Photography
With its 8,650-square-feet footprint, the scale of the rooms is generous. Aside from the seven bedrooms and six bathrooms (don’t miss the vibrant vintage tile), the home has alcoves and side rooms which could be utilized as libraries, office space, play or game rooms, and more. The collection of stained glass throughout the home is a dazzling display of artistry, with an exceptional array of colors and designs in each window.
Photograph by Zac Guyer with Studio Twenty Six Photography
Among his many accomplishments, Goshorn was a generous patron of the arts, serving as director of the Cincinnati Art Museum until his death. His love of art, combined with his impressive collection—much was acquired during frequent trips to Europe— led to an addition on the home in 1899. A custom art gallery was created on the second floor. To access it, one ascends a stunning spiral staircase that’s clad in marble. It’s an expansive, well-lit room with sunshine streaming through the enormous skylight.
Photograph by Zac Guyer with Studio Twenty Six Photography
Even though the home is situated right in the heart of Clifton, the lot sits on two acres. Set back from the road and surrounded by mature trees, the setting is positively parklike.
3540 Clifton Ave. was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 due to its historically significant architecture. Its next owner will be immersed in the gilded age glamour—a different kind of living from a bygone era.
Photograph by Zac Guyer with Studio Twenty Six Photography
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