John L. Etzel House

The John L. Etzel House is a historic building located in Clear Lake, Iowa, United States. Etzel was a local merchant and financier. He was an incorporator and served as president of the Cerro Gordo State Bank. He and his brother George founded Clear Lake Electric Light and Power Company and he served as its president. Etzel was appointed the local postmaster in 1885. He was the first person to own this house, which is an example of late Victorian eclectic design. It was one of seven similar houses that were built by local banker Frank Rogers between 1890 and 1910.[2] Completed in 1894, the two-story frame house features an irregular plan. The second story of the main facade is cantilevered over the first story, and supported by four ornate brackets. The gabled front porch, which extends beyond the side of the house, has turned posts and gingerbread ornamentation. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.[1]

John L. Etzel House
U.S. National Register of Historic Places
Location	214 N. 3rd St. Clear Lake, Iowa
Coordinates	43°08′17.4″N 93°23′2.4″W
Area	less than one acre
Built	1894
Architectural style	Late Victorian
NRHP reference No.	83000347[1]
Added to NRHP	January 27, 1983

The home was purchased in 1990 by Roberta and Joseph Rich who painstakingly have restored the porches and exterior to its original look and styles. They continue the upkeep of the home today.

References

1. "National Register Information System". National Register of Historic Places. National Park Service. July 9, 2010.
2. James E. Jacobsen. "John L. Etzel House". National Park Service. Retrieved 2016-12-06. with photos