Located on an elevated corner lot in the City’s Uptown Neighborhood, the landmark Long-Graf House is an outstanding-rated Queen Anne style residence that was completed in 1892. The lot on which the home is located was purchased by Clara Long on November 21, 1891. The building permit, which was signed by Clara Long, is dated December 5, 1891. She and her husband James sold the home on February 9, 1900 to Sarah and John Vaughn and Allie Jones.
 
The Jacob Graf family purchased the property from Vaughn and Jones on September 20, 1904. The Jacob Graf Crupper Co. operated in a separate building – now demolished – at the rear of the property from 1904 until 1964. Cruppers, the “neckties that go ‘round horses’ tails,” were manufactured here and sold around the world. The property stayed in the Graf family until October 22, 1976, and then quickly passed through two other owners before being purchased by Kenneth and Sherry Brock in September 1978. The Brocks owned the house until the fall of 2008, and initiated the historic designation of the property to ensure its protection. The current owners have undertaken a complete rehabilitation of the house both inside and out. 
 
The exterior of the Long-Graf house is rich in the architectural detailing characteristic of the Queen Anne style. The steeply pitched central gable roof with lower cross gables is embellished with a bracketed pediment decorated with fish scale shingles. Below this feature illuminating the attic are paired Queen Anne windows with small panes of colored glass surrounding a larger pane of clear glass.
 
Decorative turned posts with a spindlework frieze are found on a second floor porch on the front façade. The first floor porch exhibits cast concrete fluted columns set on chamfered and paneled cast concrete piers – the result of an early 20th century updating of the porch. Bay windows with decorative bracket supports at the eaves are found on the side elevations of the house.


 
The 2-1/2 story dwelling contains approximately 2650 square feet of living space with four bedrooms and two baths.Inside, you are greeted by the grand staircase – illuminated by an usual “pinwheel” window with colored glass – beautifully refinished hardwood floors, pocket doors, original woodwork and an abundance of natural light.



Designed for both entertaining and everyday living, the main level flows seamlessly through a formal living room, elegant dining room, and a charming parlor perfect for a reading nook or home office. The living room features a corner marbleized slate fireplace mantel with Eastlake design and original tile work and firebox cover.



At the rear of the home, the two-room kitchen/scullery is ideal for the home chef or hosting gatherings. Outfitted with two sinks, it includes ample counter space and a portable island, along with a separate pantry for extra storage. The kitchen also offers access to a second full bathroom and a back staircase, as well as to the serene and inviting back yard. 

 
 
The second floor boasts four spacious bedrooms with 9.5 ft ceilings, refinished hardwood floors, and decorative lighting. The second level also includes a full bathroom, as well as a versatile bonus room that opens onto the front balcony.


 
An enclosed stairway leads to the unfinished attic space, with a 22' x 17' area perfect for more storage or finishing for more living space.


 
The house sits on a raised corner lot, with a front-yard fountain providing extra distinction. The tranquil back yard is tastefully landscaped, with mature trees and a second fountain, along with rear alley access (and plenty of space to allow a garage to be constructed, if desired).
 
The Long-Graf House property is a single-site locally designated historic district. Because of this local designation, any exterior alterations must be reviewed and approved by the New Albany Historic Preservation Commission. For more information about the NAHPC and a copy of the City of New Albany Design Guidelines for the local historic districts, please visit www.newalbanypreservation.com.