216 W. High Street – A Quiet Classic at Risk

This two-story home at 216 W. High Street sits on a quiet street in Lebanon, Kentucky. While it may not be listed on a historic register, it carries the charm and character of early 20th-century vernacular architecture. And it's one of several local properties in danger of being lost to neglect.

The house features a steeply pitched roof, symmetrical window placement, and a distinctive front-facing gable adorned with original fish-scale shingles and a sunburst gable ornament—a decorative touch typical of late Victorian design. Interestingly, the current black roofing shingles also feature a scalloped, scale-like shape, visually echoing the gable's historic texture and giving the home a cohesive, patterned look.

The front door, paired with a secondary entrance to the right, suggests the layout may have been adapted over time for flexible use or multiple occupants.

Unfortunately, the house has been unoccupied for over ten years and has missing windows. The owner is believed to be out-of-state, and ongoing vacancy puts the property at risk of further deterioration.

Still, the potential here is undeniable. With a peaceful setting, a nice backyard, and plenty of curb appeal, 216 W. High Street is an ideal candidate for preservation and rehabilitation. The home’s structural character remains intact and reviving it would restore a charming piece of Lebanon’s streetscape.