Many homes were also damaged in the fires, still today 96 residential structures remain that were originally built during the oil and gas boom years. Each house is unique in architecture, and all have their own stories. For instance, the land that the Kuhne-Clayton house is built on has been in the same family for over 100 years.
The Nearing house, located directly across from the county courthouse, was built to serve as the judge’s chamber, as well as a place for the jury to deliberate, and for recess areas. The house has 53 windows, six interior staircases, and two fireplaces.
Before the boom, houses in Bowling Green were built for efficiently, not luxury. During the oil boom new houses were built with dramatic arches, wrap around porches, and lots of windows. The Queen Anne architectural style, one of a range of styles found in the area, incorporates delicate turned porch posts and spindles that lace the corners of the house. The Munshower, Parker, and Helfrich houses all reflect this style.
The Eastlake style is similar, but on a smaller and less dramatic scale. Examples are the Lenhart and Case houses. The Italianate style, known low-pitched or flat roofs and serlian windows, is represented in the Kuhne-Clayton, Curry-Canary, and James houses.
Tours of some of the historic homes in the city are available, and can be arranged through the Main Street Bowling Green office. Additional information on the structures is also available through their office.
