Old North House has links to Mayor Ashe

		Above, a house with a "spirited" history and a present political connection.

Imagine Knoxville's "Old City" in 1887.  Based on what I've read, it was a pretty rough place. There were brothels and saloons to attract all sorts of folks. There was gambling, thievery and, of course, gun fights. One of the most famous being the day Kid Curry shot up Patrick Sullivans', killing 2 police officers.

Just a few streets away was an acquaintance of Patrick Sullivans'. His name was Thomas Fitzgerald, and he also owned a saloon. In 1882 he started operating the saloon in the Atkin House Hotel. Then in 1887 he operated the saloon in the Hattie House Hotel at the corner of Gay and Clinch. From 1887 to 1890 he owned a saloon at 45 King Street; it was also listed as his residence. He and his family probably lived above the business. Soon business was so good he and a partner branched out into a related area. Plus in 1891 he and his family moved into the brand new home they had just built at 80 Coleman Avenue. 
It was a fine home, about 4,000 square feet, with lots of extras that displayed his success. It didn't have things imported from Italy or anything like that, but he certainly used the finest materials and craftsmen from the area. He chose a mahogany entry with etched glass transoms and sidelights. He also chose a beautiful mahogany staircase, elaborately inlaid quartersawn white oak floors, 8 ornate double mantles with mirrors, and etched transoms over all the doors.

Unfortunately, Thomas Fitzgerald was only able to enjoy his beautiful home for a few years. He passed away sometime around 1896. His widow remained in the home until the 1940s, and the house remained in the family until the 1960s. That's when the house fell on hard times, changing owners, then finally being split into 7 apartments in an attempt to capitalize on the 1982 World's Fair. Today, it's still apartments, but everything is still there (staircase, mantles, floors, transoms), and no changes from the original floor plan. One day this house will be spectacular when it's restored! 

So, I never told you the secret connection! Well, 80 Coleman Avenue is now 311 West Glenwood Avenue, and the business he started was Fitzgerald & Ashe wholesale liquors. If you drop the Fitzgerald, the business is still in operation today on Old Kingston Pike. The Ashe in Fitzgerald and Ashe is related to Mayor Ashe. And now you see its interesting connection. So, learn the history of your house. You may be surprised at what you find out along the way. It may have a spirited tale of its own.

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