1830 Owen House
531 Tavern Street
Built: 1830
Original Use: Rental property owned by the Owen family
Architecture: Brick construction, Federal/Empire style
Robert Dale Owen and David Dale Owen are thought to have commissioned the building of this house, built by carpenters John Bondaley and J.B. Johnson and architects Swift and Barter. However, none of the Owens ever lived in the building. The architects also built other houses in New Harmony.
From 1830 to 1838, the Owen brothers owned the house and rented it to more than 10 families. During this time, a kitchen was added and a later owner added rooms all across the back of the house. These additions were torn off by later owners. Historic New Harmony, Inc. purchased, renovated and furnished the house in the 1970s.
The furniture pieces are from the correct period, the 1830s-1840s, but are not original to the house. Except for a few pieces that are from Posey County, all the other furniture and decorations are from elsewhere. The Empire style sideboard in the dining room was made by local craftsman John Beal for Robert Dale Owen.
Access: Interior accessible during guided tours only. This house is regularly featured on the New Harmony History Tour.
