415 Wilson Ave Hanover, PA 17331

The Fisher-Crouse House is a 30x40 German Stone farm house reported to be the oldest existing structure in the Boro of Hanover. Constructed by Nicholas Fisher, an early farmer and landowner, and dates from the third quarter of the 18th Century (1750-1770). Much of the original home is remarkable intact. Fieldstone foundation and walls are structurally sound & have been professionally repointed, and wes well executed and historically appropriate. Two brick chimneys in good condition, and windows appear to be original & in exceptional condition, given their age. The roof has been recently replaced with architectural asphalt shingles protecting the home and interior. Tow of the main level exterior doors appear to be original w/ intact hand-forged hinges and locksets that are consistent w/ the period of the house. Excellent example of period iron work. The hand-forged pins and shutter dogs are still in place for shutters which have been removed. basement windows feature hand-forged grates likely to date to the original construction of the house. Exterior fascia, soffit and trim in excellent condition, well preserved w/ only minor flaking paint. Not certain if the dormers were original or a later addition - but there are reports that in compliance with the "Federal Window Pane Tax of 1798" there were 150 panes of glass in the house at that time. Interior showcases original wide pine plank floors on the 1st floor & a combination of pine and oak on the 2nd floor. The first floor rooms showcase a faux finish paint technique of the period which simulate marble. All rooms have wide chair rail. The wide center hall which runs front to back of the house showcases the period staircase - late 18th century, fully intact without evidence of repair or modification. The balusters & newel are turned hardwood and the rail has a square turn-out. The stringers are decorated w/ scroll returns. One back bedroom had some water damage causing the plaster to deteriorate. There does not appear to be significant structural damage to either the roof or flooring. The basement - super cool. Full height, fireplace at one end & remains of a bake oven at the other. Look up- ceiling logs roughly 3-4 inches apart with a layer of stone in the gaps - was this the first attempt at radiant heating? Recently the YMCA installed baths for folks on field to use and basement divided in half. The 20th c hot air furnace has been removed, and 1 corner of the basement appears to harbor the remains of an indoor cistern. There is an updated electrical panel but only 6 breakers - might want to add that - right? This home is an excellent candidate for historic preservation - even museum-quality restoration. Estimates for restoration as a private residence with historic adaptations would be between $120-135. It qualifies to be placed on the national Register of Historic Places if properly restored. Who will be the next to own this glorious piece of history!