The Ranson House Today

After purchasing the house in 2006 the Raines undertook a massive restoration process. They hired building contractor Bruce Piuta who had experience in renovating old homes to do the work. A lightening fire in 2005 had caused extensive damage down one side of the house. The beautiful wraparound veranda had to be completely taken apart and put back together. Of the 18 columns around the porch, 17 were saved along with most of the original railings. Other porches on the side and back of the house also underwent complete renovation.

The interior of the house had been “modernized� through the years and had lost its original charm. Acoustic drop-ceilings had been installed over the original bead-board upstairs and in the dining room downstairs, where the original tin ceiling was missing. Carpets and linoleum had been laid over the heart pine floors. Small kitchenettes and plywood closets had been added in many of the rooms during the apartment phase. All of this has been removed, repaired or replaced.

There were eight fireplaces in the house, some coal burning and some log burning. Most had been bricked up and boarded over, with one mantel missing altogether. These have been uncovered and converted to gas. All plumbing and electrical has been completely updated. Heat and air has been added. The original windows and doors have been repaired with most original hardware preserved.

The Raines have applied for historic status with the Mecklenburg Historic Landmarks Commission. Studies are being conducted in order to determine the historical significance of the house. Status should be determined by the end of 2007.