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Letter to the editor

Largo Explorer

By CARRIE WEIMAR, Times Staff Writer
Published January 13, 2008

Mention arts and crafts and most people think glue sticks, magic markers and the projects kids make in summer camp.

But Ron Blakley and Mike Wilson taught me a new definition and I got a lesson about Largo history along the way.

Blakley and Wilson are co-owners of an arts and crafts house on 13th Street in Largo. They explained the phrase refers to a style of architecture and furnishings that involves simple shapes, strong lines and a regard for craftsmanship and materials.

Built in 1887, just before the Orange Belt Railroad came to Largo, the house at 328 13th St. SW was originally on West Bay Drive. It was built for the new trainmaster, Mr. Darcy, and is known to some locals as the Darcy house.

In the 1960s, it was moved to 13th Street to save it from destruction as West Bay Drive expanded.

When Blakley bought the house in the late 1980s, it certainly didn't look like an important piece of the city's history.

"It was dingy," Blakley said. "It had a derelict farmhouse look. You had to look to see the potential. You couldn't really see the high-style house."

Blakley's years as a merchandising designer in New York City helped him see beyond the cracked plaster walls, rotted flooring and asbestos roof. He recognized the gables, built-in cabinets, large porch and woodwork as classic arts and crafts design.

Seven years ago, Blakley and Wilson began renovating the house. The task has been daunting and expensive, but the results are striking.

The hardwood floors gleam. The dark wood of the long stairwell is warm and appealing. The 7-foot windows and 12-foot ceilings create a feeling of spaciousness.

Sweat equity abounds here.

"There were layers and layers of flooring in the kitchen," Wilson said. "It took a week just to remove it. The stairway was painted, covered with linoleum, and carpeted. It took 10 days to remove that."

Wilson and Blakley are now working to restore the house to its earlier roots with proper furnishings to fit the architecture. This includes period light fixtures, a settee with horsehair cushions, a brick fireplace and a carved teak table. They find items locally whenever possible.

"The pieces come from everywhere: from Salvation Army to the nicest antique stores and estate sales," Blakley said.

Preserving the home is costly. The 1912 bathroom fixtures were bought at an estate sale but retrofitting them with modern plumbing added another $300.

The renovations go in spurts as funds allow.

As I learned more about the home's history, I really came to appreciate the passion Blakley and Wilson have for their task.

"We are custodians of this house," Wilson said. "We're doing everything we can tosave it."

SHARE YOUR SECRETS: Do you know someplace that would make a good Largo Explorer column? We're looking for places off the beaten path to share with readers.

If you have a good idea, contact Largo Times editor Carrie Weimar at cweimar@sptimes.com or 727 445-4151.

Historical arts and crafts house - 328 13th St. SW

[Last modified January 12, 2008, 20:54:48]