Taken last Wednesday August 6, 2025 in the rain.

The Parksdale House in Rich Square, North Carolina, is a striking Greek Revival home built around 1857. Set on a 2-acre lot in the heart of town, it boasts wide-plank heart pine floors, five fireplaces, and generously sized rooms bathed in natural light from its many windows. Though in need of restoration, the house retains much of its original charm, including period hardware and trim. Rich Square itself is steeped in history, known for its Quaker roots and agricultural heritage, and is home to nearby attractions like Sylvan Heights Bird Park and the Brady C. Jefcoat Museum of Americana. Today, the Parksdale House is in the early stages of a thoughtful restoration, promising to preserve its historic character for years to come.

Last Wednesday, I finally got to meet the husband-and-wife team behind the restoration of the John Brown House, who are now beginning work on their next project—the Parksdale House. I brought my son along, and he quickly joined their son, Brax, for an afternoon of tag and hide-and-seek, filling the quiet air with laughter. As they played, I followed the couple through the old Parksdale home, listening to their stories and plans for what’s ahead. They were only in town for a few days, and were meeting with a contractor at the same time, but still welcomed me in as if we’d known each other for years.

The top of the stairs and door to the second story porch.

They graciously invited me to return and see the home’s progress in the months and years ahead (they hope to finish the project in 2 years), and I look forward to sharing updated photos here as their work unfolds. I can’t wait to watch this once-forgotten beauty blossom into a vibrant event venue for all to enjoy.