Even if the most prolific horror writer of the 20th century never stepped foot in this home, it would be a remarkable example of a Gothic Revival Victorian Mansion. Everything about this house is beautiful. The building itself goes without saying. The lot is spacious, well laid out and groomed. On top of that, the entire surrounding neighborhood is made up of Victorian Mansions of varying styles, each more beautiful than the last
But Stephen King not only entered this home. He bought it in 1980 and write a significant number of his books here. Due to looky loos such as myself, and I am sure much creepier folks lurking about, the King’s spend their time at other residences. The fact remains that this is the Stephen King home though…and it looks the part.
Details of the Stephen King home:
Stephen King’s home in Bangor, Maine, is not only a private residence but also a significant landmark for fans of the author and those interested in Gothic architecture. The house, located at 47 West Broadway, has become an iconic symbol associated with King’s prolific career in horror and suspense writing. Here’s an overview of its history, design, and construction:
History
Stephen King and his wife, Tabitha, purchased the property in 1980. The house, which dates back to the 19th century, became the King family’s primary residence for many years. Although the Kings have since moved to other homes, the Bangor property remains closely associated with them, partly due to its distinctive appearance and the fact that King wrote many of his famous novels while living there.
Over the years, the house has attracted countless fans, who often visit to catch a glimpse of the mansion that inspired some of King’s work. In 2019, Stephen and Tabitha King announced that the property would be transformed into a writers’ retreat and archives, preserving its literary legacy.
Design and Architecture
The Stephen King house is a classic example of Victorian Gothic architecture. The mansion, painted in a deep, rich red, features many elements characteristic of the Gothic Revival style, popular in the late 19th century.
- Exterior Features: The house is surrounded by a wrought-iron fence adorned with intricate designs, including bats, spiders, and a three-headed dragon, adding to the home’s eerie and Gothic ambiance. The front gate, with its web-like design, is particularly striking and a favorite among visitors for photographs.
- Structure: The house itself is a two-story structure with a steeply pitched roof, gables, and decorative trim, typical of Victorian-era homes. The asymmetrical façade is punctuated by a turret, giving the house a castle-like appearance. Large windows, some with stained glass, add to the opulence and character of the residence.
- Interior: While specific details about the interior design are less publicized due to the private nature of the residence, it’s known that the house is spacious, with high ceilings, ornate woodwork, and many rooms that King used as writing spaces. The interior likely features a mix of period-appropriate furnishings and personal memorabilia related to King’s career.
Construction
The exact date of the original construction is not well-documented, but it is believed that the house was built in the mid-19th century, around the 1870s. The construction would have utilized the materials and techniques typical of the era, such as wood framing and intricate wooden detailing. The house’s maintenance and renovations over the years have preserved its historical character, ensuring that it remains a well-preserved example of Victorian architecture.
Cultural Significance
Stephen King’s Bangor home is more than just a residence; it has become a cultural landmark. It embodies the Gothic and eerie atmosphere that permeates much of King’s work. Fans often see the house as a physical manifestation of the world of Stephen King’s stories, a place where the line between fiction and reality blurs.
The decision to turn the house into a writers’ retreat ensures that it will continue to be a place of creativity and inspiration, much as it was during King’s years living there. The retreat will provide an opportunity for writers to immerse themselves in an environment steeped in literary history, potentially sparking new works that carry on the legacy of one of America’s most renowned authors.
Public Interest
Though it remains private property, the house’s exterior has become a beloved tourist attraction. Visitors often walk by to admire its unique architecture and take photos, particularly around Halloween, when the house’s spooky aesthetic aligns perfectly with the season. Despite the attention, the King family has maintained the property as a private residence and a symbol of Stephen King’s deep connection to Bangor and the state of Maine.
