The Clark-Nichols House, PARK VIEW (1837–Present)

Welcome back, Monroe history lovers. This week’s historical spotlight takes us to Monroe Center to the property at the southeast corner intersection of Monroe Turnpike and Church Street. Our first supporting image shows you the precise location at 758 Monroe Turnpike. This little gem is hidden in plain sight, and it’s not unusual to be concentrating on the road and drive right past it. Are you ready to learn the history behind the house? Let’s head on over to the Monroe Center Green and have a closer look.

The house dates to 1837 and was built by John Clark. It is an example of Federal-era architecture, often referred to as a half-house because it’s half the width of a more traditional full-sized Federal-era Colonial house. Today, the bold millwork that surrounds the entryways and windows of the house has inspired some to refer to it architecturally as Greek Revival. By the early 20th century, the house was owned by Stiles Munson Clarke, our then Monroe town clerk. Mr. Clarke’s daily commute from his house to work at the town hall was just over 300 feet. In 1914, the house was purchased by Charles Banks Nichols and was formally named PARK VIEW, the name inspired by the unobstructed view of the Monroe Center Green, which was casually referred to by residents as The Park.

In our second supporting image, c.1915, we see the full veranda that once adorned the front and side of the house. During this era, such features were a common addition to many distinguished houses about town. A large wing was once attached to the back of the house, which served as a private school. Blackboards with writing still on them were discovered when the wing was removed in the 1940s. In 1958, the house was purchased by Dr. James L. Sniffen and was used for both his family residence and dentistry practice. Many Monroe residents — myself included — surely remember visiting Dr. Sniffen’s office for their dental needs. WEZN, Stereo 100 was always dialed in on the radio to calm the anxious patient.

By the mid-20th century, the full veranda surrounding the house had been removed, revealing once again its original architectural form. Since 2009, the house has been owned and lovingly maintained by Aaron and Samantha McGoldrick, who in recent years have changed its color from golden yellow to gray, tastefully freshening up and modernizing its look. The McGoldrick family has a full appreciation for the history of their home and our town, and under their ownership the legacy of Park View lives on well into the future.

I hope you enjoyed this week’s historical spotlight on The Clark-Nichols House, PARK VIEW. Please share this post with your family and friends, and thank you for your continued support and interest in Monroe’s rich architectural and dental history. Until next time, are you flossing regularly? Be honest now. The dentist always knows.

Regards,

Kevin Daly
Historian, Monroe Historical Society
www.monroecthistory.org
Our Past is Always Present