Tours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am-2pm and by appointment.
This lovely, old Greek Revival mansion was built in 1904 by Francis Kister, onetime Mayor of Bowling Green and co-builder of St. Joseph Catholic Church. The Houchens Center, an unique, non-profit organization, was created in 1975 for the purpose of restoring and preserving the house for the use of the community. The Historic House, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is open for free tours on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10am to 2pm. Occasional art displays are available for viewing and a small gift shop carries local crafts.
The Houchens Center is now used as a cultural and educational center for the community, and as a meeting place for clubs, associations and individual patrons who make up the membership. Beautiful inlaid wood flooring, intricately carved fireplaces and mantles downstairs, and polished woodwork throughout--all provide a perfect setting for wedding receptions, elegant parties and club luncheons. The Center is also used by a variety of non-members for club meetings, workshops, retreats, receptions, parties and weddings.
The Houchens Center has several annual events open to the public including a Card Party in February and August, the Annual 400 Mile Yard Sale in June and the Trees of Christmas in December when over 30 decorated trees adorn the beautiful house. The Trees of Christmas Open House is on the first Friday in December and Shopping Day including local craft vendors is on the second Friday in December. One can tour the house every day throughout the Trees of Christmas in December and then on Monday, Wednesday and Friday throughout the rest of the year.
General
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Meeting Space on-site:
Facility Info
- Description Reasonably-priced meeting rooms available. Main level includes a dining room, parlor, large foyer and two full kitchens. There is approximately 462 sq. ft. of meeting space, with theater and reception capacity at 75 and banquet capacity at 50. The second level includes additional small rooms. Tables and chairs are available for use with table linens available for a fee. Catering is available for club luncheons, receptions, and other special events. Email for further information at houchenscenter@yahoo.com.
