2576 Ashton Road (1998)

This charming home of Dutch Colonial influences with a large front porch, was built in 1925 for Mr. Packard, who held a high level position with Standard Oil. It was also at one time the home of the great-grandson of President Garfield. It was severely damaged by fire in 1995, and the current owners courageously and with great sensitivity, rebuilt it over a period of nine months. Much of the house was restored to its original state, although some features were enhanced and an addition was built on the back of the house. In the living room, the original arch over the fireplace was enlarged, dentil molding was added, and a built-in china cupboard now graces the dining room. The new features blend in beautifully with what remains of the original house.

Rescued from the fire by valiant members of the Cleveland Heights fire department are an exquisite hand made dining room table and chairs inlaid with mother of pearl, as well as the baseball collection of the owner's son.

The second floor has four bedrooms, with the baseball collection on display in one of them. A spacious master suite with a Caribbean theme features two walk-in closets.

As fire began on the roof, the third floor is completely new. Large, open, and with recessed lighting, the third floor serves as office space for the owners.

The family room was unaffected by the fire, and original windows and some original cabinetry are extant in the kitchen. Hickory cabinets, Corian counters and the oak floor are part of the restoration to the kitchen. A pass-through from the kitchen to a screened-in back porch makes this area a convenient and delightful place for summer meals. The porch, which is a highlight of the new addition, features a ceiling fan, hot tub, and the beauty of nature, in the form of a large tree surrounded by an outer deck.

An unlikely survivor of such a raging fire was a book entitled Expect a Miracle. The spirited owners have miraculously survived an immense catastrophe and have restored to Cleveland Heights a home which is a true gem.