Dream of a time when a local merchant sought to recreate a piece of his Ohio home right here in Tampa. This is the story of the Hutchinson House. Completed in 1908 it stands as a unique example of Second Empire architecture in Florida. It is at 304 Plant Avenue.
Currie J. Hutchinson a man of many ventures built this house. He owned drug stores a jewelry store and even Tampa’s first ice cream factory. Construction started in 1906. Most materials came from Hutchinson’s home state of Ohio. The total cost was around $6500 a fortune back then.
Look closely at the walls of the Hutchinson House. They are 18 inches thick and made of solid brick. The masonry technique is special with tight mortar lines between the red bricks. Even with Tampa Bay nearby the basement has remained dry for over a century.
Notice the high mansard roof. It is a signature element of the Second Empire style. Each slate shingle was cut by hand. They have lasted over a century surviving hurricanes heat and cold. The design links the house to French architectural roots.
The Hutchinson House has three chimneys extending ten feet above the roof. These chimneys served five fireplaces and a stove. Imagine the warmth and comfort they provided. In 2007 a replica of the original gas lantern was restored in the front yard. It is a nod to the past.
The Hutchinson House served many purposes over the years. The Hutchinson family lived here while Mr. Hutchinson ran his pharmacy. From 1932 to 1946 it was a hospital. Later it became a rooming house. From 1958 to 1977 the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity called it home.
In 1977 the University of Tampa removed all fraternities from campus. The Hutchinson House was left empty and in poor condition. That same year it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
The University of Tampa sold the Hutchinson House to the City of Tampa. The city then sold it to the Tampa Preservation Society. A major restoration began. It lasted about two years.
In 1981 attorney William B. Plowman bought the Hutchinson House. He continued the restoration. He improved the first second and third floors. Access to the third floor was restored without changing the interior flow.
In 1989 Matt Powell rented space from Mr. Plowman. He loved the building so much that he eventually bought it in 1999. Matt Powell has continued to preserve and maintain this historical building. Today the Hutchinson House remains a testament to Tampa’s history. It stands as a reminder of a bygone era and the dedication of those who preserved it.