The Peuchen Home

309 Goundry Street

Photo: 309 Goundry Street in 2005, courtesy of Volunteer Museum Photographer, Jacqueline T. Letke

This home was once a showplace in the first quarter of the 20th century, with hanging gardens, and gardens on the floor of the first floor veranda and the second floor roof.  The enclosed area at the right on the first floor was originally part of the open veranda.  Stanley Peuchen and his brothers operated Frontier Manufacturing Company.  Peuchen and his socially prominent family entertained in the remodeled coach house behind this home.  Mrs. Peuchen had been Mary Bowden of Toronto.  They were especially known for their New Year's Eve dances.  There was a large ballroom in the carriage house where orchestras played for the dances.  Mr. Peuchen was known as "Tops" because his company produced the original cutting oil, Tops Oil, which was so important in World War I, enabling machinery to cut through steel.

Lumberman A. B. Williams built this home originally. Frank Xavier Batt's home is visible at right. Now commonly referred to as the Peuchen home, this photo was taken in 2006. The home has nine apartments now. The carriage house in the rear still stands. The present owner hopes to restore it, and the house, to some of its early glory.

309 Goundry today.

Taken sometime around 1920.  Photo courtesy of Peter Comstock.

Letters & Comments from Museum Visitors

From: Peter Cornstock - January 5, 2007