Welcome to the Reid House, located in Matthews, North Carolina.
Built by Edward Solomon Reid in 1890 by a local businessman and later sold to his dear sister Ellen in 1893. That year, Ellen married Dr. Thomas Neely Reid (they had the same last name - but weren't related).
Dr. Reid graduated from City University of New York and settled in Matthews to practice medicine in 1889. He served until his death in 1946 aged seventy-eight.
He was a colorful figure in town, beloved by his patients. Dr. Reid was one of the first people in Matthews to trade his horses for the "new fangled" automobile.
The house was named for Miss Nancy Reid, the youngest of Dr. and Mrs. Reid's daughters. She was born in the house on January 9, 1898 and lived there until her death on January 25, 1986.
She was well educated and taught in the Charlotte Mecklenburg School System for thirty-five years. Mrs. Sarah Redd of Columbia, South Carolina, a niece of Miss Nancy's, inherited the house upon her death.
Mrs. Redd generously gifted the house and property to The Matthews Historical Foundation on December 31, 1987.
The Reid House is considered unique because it was one of the few Victorian Queen Anne style homes built in Mecklenburg County. With its design of gingerbread cupola, Chinese Chippendale porch railing and rounded turret it has remained a wonderful example characteristic of Victorian style.
The large windows, still with the original glass, the height of the interior walls, nearly 12 feet, and the woodwork and cross molding above the windows all are evident in homes of this era. Unfortunately, the furniture is not original to the house but is period correct.
The gazebo was constructed in 1996, using the Chippendale woodwork pattern found on the front porch as a guide. It makes a wonderful addition to the large backyard.
Hope you enjoyed the Holiday open tour.
Have a blessed Christmas week,
~Kiki Nakita ~
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