1212 Cass Street

A little-known Prairie School masterpiece in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

My late sister and her husband owned this property for several years in the late 90s. It was was inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s work and designed by Otto Merman:

“Designed by Otto Merman in 1917 for industrialist Philo Gelatt, this La Crosse residence embodies the marked characteristics of the Prairie Style. Asymmetrical in plan, this two story house is constructed largely of brick and is topped by a low-pitch hip roof with broad overhanging eaves. The east end terminates in a polygonal bay with brick piers, while a one story, hip roof wing extends from each of the north and south walls. Horizontal lines delineate all facades with the aid of contrasting wood trim and horizontal bands of windows with continuous masonry sills; furthermore, there is a broad, flat chimney with a masonry cap. A slightly projecting entrance features geometric-design, tall casement windows and door--hallmarks of the Wrightian-derived style. Located on the grounds are an in-ground swimming pool and a garage/garden house structure.” ~ Wisconsin Historical Society

Stately and majestic, it was part of a neighborhood of similar homes. La Crosse has the greatest number of Prairie School houses in any city, but no Frank Lloyd Wright designs.

It was a comfortable place for entertaining, the rooms were spacious, the fireplace inviting:

The second floor Master bedroom suite had a magnificent view:

The house was at its dramatic best after nightfall:

Recent owners have permanently blurred-out the house in Google Street View:

But… you can watch this video tour of 1212 Cass from the last time it was sold.