Commission finds reasonable cause for Spencer House landmark nomination; innkeepers speak in support

The City of Erie Historic Review Commission voted to determine there is reasonable cause that the William and Mary Spencer House at 519 West 6th Street qualifies as a historic landmark and approved a motion to recommend the nomination to city council.

The city’s cultural resource manager summarized the house’s history, saying the Spencer House was constructed in 1871 as a gift from JC Spencer and later associated with William and Mary Spencer. The presenter said the property meets criteria B (association with persons significant to the city’s past) and C (architectural distinction), noting its second‑empire form with stick and Queen Anne elements and a well‑preserved interior. The presenter identified architect David K. Dean in the historical record and noted original blueprints are retained by the property’s innkeepers.

Steve, an innkeeper at the Spencer House bed and breakfast, addressed the commission in support of the nomination: “My wife and I both live there, and we’re pretty fortunate that it's been maintained over the years,” he said, praising prior owners and the house’s intact woodwork and tile.

Committee member (S4) moved that the commission determine reasonable cause that the Spencer House meets landmark qualifications under criteria B and C. The motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. Commissioners then voted to forward the nomination to city council for formal consideration and any required ordinance or zoning amendment.

Next steps: the nomination is scheduled for a planning commission hearing later this month and will be included in the council docket for an ordinance amending the zoning code if council proceeds with designation.