The Jane Ross Reeves Octagon House

Linda and I discovered the Jane Ross Reeves Octagon House through a friend of ours who was living in Shirley, Indiana a few years ago. He called me one day and told me that he had something to show to us that he thought we would appreciate seeing, but he wouldn’t say what it was. Since I’m always up for a road trip to see something new, we headed his way. This is what he had to show us.

Unique Jane Ross Reeves Octagon House

In 1876, three years after her husband Elijah passed away, Jane Ross Reeves discovered plans for an octagonal house in a magazine. Captivated by the design, she chose to build it on her farm between Wilkinson and Willow Branch, Indiana. By 1879, a Fortville contracting company constructed the house at a cost between $2,300 and $2,500. Impressively, Jane paid the full amount in silver dollars she had saved in a shoebox.

The Reeves family first lived in a log cabin on the highest point of their land. To honor their marriage, Jane and Elijah planted two “wedding trees” at the cabin’s entrance. These trees symbolized their union and grew together over time. Although the cabin was later replaced by the octagon house, the wedding tree tradition continued at the new home.

Architectural Marvel: The Octagon House Design

This two-story, wood-frame house features a pyramidal roof and includes 16 rooms—four large and four small per floor. Notably, each room has its own closet, reflecting a thoughtful and functional design. Influenced by Orson Squire Fowler’s 1848 book The Octagon House: A Home for All, the house embraces his ideals of efficiency and improved lighting.

Originally, four chimneys served multiple rooms throughout the home. However, during the 1997 relocation, they were removed to reduce weight. Later, the chimneys were reconstructed to restore historical accuracy. Today, they house modern utilities while maintaining the home’s period charm.

Preservation and Relocation: A Community Effort

By the late 20th century, the house had deteriorated and was at risk of demolition. Consequently, in 1997, the Jane Ross Reeves Octagon House Foundation launched a preservation effort. Under the leadership of Darrell Deck, the home was relocated nine miles to Shirley, Indiana. Remarkably, Jane’s great-great-grandson, Ron Ross—an expert in house moving—was instrumental in the process.

The relocation required immense community collaboration. Volunteers cleared the path and built a new octagonal basement with 10-foot ceilings to support the structure. Today, the house stands proudly at 400 Railroad Street, restored as a symbol of local pride and determination.

Visiting the Jane Ross Reeves Octagon House

Currently open to the public, the house functions as both a historical site and a community center. In 2022, it received a $5,860 grant from the Indiana Historical Society. This funding supported the renovation of a disability-accessible ramp and railing, further improving public access.

Visitors are welcome to tour the carefully restored rooms and admire the home’s unique octagonal layout. While exploring, they also gain insight into the Reeves family’s story and the broader significance of octagon houses. As a result, the house stands as a beacon of resilience and innovation.

The Legacy of Octagon Houses

Popularized in the mid-19th century, octagon houses were championed by Orson Squire Fowler. He promoted them for their efficient layout, enhanced natural light, and improved air circulation. Although thousands were built during that era, few remain today. Therefore, the Jane Ross Reeves Octagon House is a rare and treasured example of this architectural trend.

Plan Your Visit

Nestled in Shirley, Indiana, this historic home offers a rare glimpse into a bygone era of American architecture. Whether you’re passionate about design, history, or small-town heritage, this site offers something unique. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the legacy of Jane Ross Reeves firsthand.