Nestled in the heart of the Discovery District of Downtown Columbus, the Snowden-Gray House stands as a testament to timeless elegance and historic charm.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this extraordinary property is now available for sale at $2.1 million. Built in 1854, the Snowden-Gray House blends preserved history with modern luxury. It offers an expansive 17,377 square feet of versatile space, plus an additional 3,000-square-foot outdoor patio on the second floor.
Originally constructed in the 1850s for wealthy silk importer Philip Snowden, the house quickly gained a reputation as one of the most beautiful examples of Italianate architecture in Columbus.
Snowden lost his fortune soon after moving in. By the Civil War, the house had transformed into the governor’s mansion for David Tod and his large family. In the late 1860s, the Gray family took possession of the mansion.
The tower, typical of Italian Villa houses, served unique purposes for Mrs. Gray. She used it to observe the fashions of her guests from neighboring streets and mansions, ensuring she was always the best-dressed lady at her gatherings. Her grandsons found more mischievous uses for the tower, such as launching snowball attacks on top-hatted gentlemen passing by in winter.
Over the years, the Snowden-Gray House has served many purposes.
Photo by Pythaglio is licensed under CC BY 2.0
It became the Women’s Club of Columbus, then a rooming house, and later the headquarters for the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority until their relocation to Dublin in 2018. More recently, historic preservationist David Strause transformed part of the first floor into a jazz bar and event space.
Today, 10th Avenue Holdings LLC rents out the house as an event venue, but its potential uses are as limitless as your imagination.
Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by the exquisite details of a recent renovation.
Refinished hardwood floors, freshly repainted and wallpapered walls, and updated restrooms showcase the meticulous care given to every corner of this house.
High-end finishes throughout add a touch of contemporary flair without detracting from the home’s historic essence. The spacious multi-purpose rooms, dance hall, full-service bar, and catering kitchen make it perfect for hosting lavish events. It could also be reimagined for retail, entertainment, hospitality, or office space.
But the Snowden-Gray House isn’t just about what’s inside.
The property boasts 40 on-site parking spaces, supplemented by additional street parking, and it’s conveniently located near landmarks like Topiary Park, Grant Medical Center, Columbus Metropolitan Library, Franklin University, and the Columbus Museum of Art. With easy access to I-71, I-670, and I-70, it’s a prime location for anyone looking to merge convenience with class.
Adding to its allure, the Snowden-Gray House carries whispers of ghostly tales, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue to its storied past. While current listing agent Matt Gregory says he’s never encountered a ghost, the historical ambiance alone is enough to captivate the imagination.
Whether you envision transforming this historic gem back into a grand residence or you’re looking for a more commercial opportunity, the Snowden-Gray House is a rare find in downtown Columbus.
Photo by Pythaglio is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Its combination of historical significance, modern amenities, and prime location make it a unique opportunity for anyone looking to own a piece of Columbus history.
Don’t miss your chance to explore the endless possibilities of the Snowden-Gray House. If you’re interested in seeing more, you can check out the full listing for the property right here.
