Kurt Vonnegut used to play in the backyard of this stately, 6,496-square-foot Meridian Park manse as a child. His cousin Anton Vonnegut built the striking estate in 1921, infusing the romanticism of French Revival architecture into every room through carved limestone fireplaces, stunning crown molding, and natural woodwork. The six-bedroom stucco home has retained its historic charm through multiple renovations, the most notable done by the late Dr. Frank Johnson and his wife, Elaine.
Frank bought the home in 1980, before he and Elaine were married, and spent 18 months restoring it. He removed all of the first-floor doors, opening up the entryway into a spacious living room and an adjacent library. He also tore down a wall between two small bedrooms on the second floor, creating a sprawling master suite with a sitting area. The basement rec room boasts retro-cool checkerboard flooring.
In 2006, Elaine began updating other areas of the main level. She removed the outdated carpet and antique window treatments, unveiling exquisite hardwood floors and arched windows. The kitchen was completely revamped with new granite countertops, bamboo flooring, and soft track lighting.
Although it has been decades since Anton Vonnegut settled in the area, Meridian Park remains one of the city’s most desirable centrally located neighborhoods, known as much for its close-knit residents as its storied history.
Want to Buy It?
Address: 3245 N. Pennsylvania St.
List Price: $450,000
Agent: Joe Everhart, Everhart Studio
Phone: 317-916-1052
