Overview of the Property
- Location: Huntington, West Virginia
- Architectural Style: Queen Anne, designed by J.B. Stewart
- Year Built: 1896
- Original Owner: Albert E. Cox, a prominent local businessman
- Key Features: Includes a stone veranda and a rusticated stone foundation
Historical Significance
Early Family History
- Ancestral Beginnings: The Cox family’s presence in the area began in 1795 with William T. Cox, who moved from Buckingham County, Virginia to what is now Cabell County.
- Contributions: William T. Cox established a general store and built a wharf for steamboats on the Ohio River, which led to the naming of the area as Cox Landing.
Albert E. Cox
- Birth and Lineage: Born in 1860 to John A. Cox and Adela Fuller, and grandson of William T. Cox.
- Early Career: Started working at his grandfatherโs store, later managed a grocery store and owned a harness manufacturing and dealing business.
Evolution of the Cox House
Residential Use
- Initial Design and Construction: The house was built in 1896 as Albert E. Cox’s residence, featuring distinctive architectural elements designed by J.B. Stewart.
Transition to Commercial Use
- 1930s Shift: Albert and his family moved to Latulle Avenue in 1930, leading to various occupants over the years, including the Stevers family.
- 1960s Conversion: The property was transformed into apartments.
As a Nightclub
- 1977 Transformation: Began operating as the 1896 Club, a popular local nightclub.
- Club Features: Included a dance floor with a mirrored ceiling in the basement, a bar and stage on the first floor, and recreational amenities on the second floor.
- Closure: The nightclub ceased operations in 1997.
The Albert E. Cox House, with its rich historical background and unique architectural design, is currently on the market, offering a unique opportunity for preservation and adaptive reuse.
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