Built in 1900, this stately historic home offers a rare combination of Tucker County history, architectural character, and thoughtful modern updates. The home was built by Judge A. Jay Valentine, a prominent Tucker County attorney and director and vice president of Tucker County Bank.
Born in 1866, Judge Valentine lived here with his wife, Columbia Jane "Lummie" Kalar Valentine, and their six children: Jessie, Elsie, Zilah, Arthur, Mark Twain, and Paul. Judge Valentine's reputation was recorded in Men of West Virginia, Volume II, which described him as "a hard student in his profession, prompt and unfailing in his engagements an
d honest in his dealings." More than 125 years later, the home retains an extraordinary amount of its original character. Nine-foot ceilings, original flooring, beautiful oak trim, multiple bay windows, and a custom ceiling in the dining room reflect the craftsmanship of an earlier era.
The Judge's sitting room features its original wallpaper and a beautiful antique Art Deco ceiling light, while the elegant parlor retains its original fireplace, now enhanced with a gas insert. A charming small room tucked within the home offers a particularly delightful glimpse into its history.
Originally the nursery for the Valentine children, the room was later converted into additional closet space and retains its cozy window seat. Today, this versatile space could easily be transformed into a private reading nook, home office, writing room, or quiet retreat-adding another layer of character to this remarkable home.
The updated kitchen blends historic charm with modern luxury, featuring KraftMaid cabinetry, quartz countertops, and hardwood flooring. The spacious master suite offers a private dressing room with walk-in closet, access to the exterior balcony, and a separate pocket-door entrance to a luxurious hall bathroom complete with a walk-in shower and jetted garden tub.
One of the generously sized guest bedrooms also opens onto the exterior balcony. Outside, mature, old-growth landscaping-including lilacs, rhododendrons, Japanese pear, maple, and holly trees-provides beauty and seasonal color throughout the year. From the welcoming front porch, enjoy a beautiful view of Parsons and the surrounding mountains.
This is more than a historic house-it is a piece of Tucker County history, thoughtfully preserved while offering the comfort and amenities of today. A truly distinctive opportunity to own a home with architectural character, a remarkable story, and an enduring connection to the community's past.
