Kalispell in Flathead County, Montana — The American West (Mountains)

Elliot House

East Side Historic District

Photographed by Barry Swackhamer, August 19, 2020

1. Elliot House Marker

Inscription.
A blend of the Prairie and Craftsman styles illustrates the creative genius of Kalispell architect Marion Riffo, who designed and supervised the construction of this exceptional residence between 1909 and 1910. Craftsman style characteristics include prominent knee braces supporting the eaves, heavy piers, stucco siding, and Tudor half- timbering. Wide eaves accentuate the low-pitched hipped roof. Banded windows create a horizontal emphasis typical of the Prairie style. The use of natural colors and materials establish the Prairie ideal that a home should blend into the landscape. Northwest Lumber Company treasurer Charles Dobner and his wife, Agnes, were the first owners of this “unique and artistic” Kalispell landmark. William and Ellen Elliot lived in the home from 1917 to 1938. During World War II, it served as winter headquarters for Glacier National Park, housed the Office of Price Administration, and provided classrooms and a dining hall for Civil Air Patrol cadets. From 1948 to 1964, it was the residence of Dr. Neil and Marian Leitch. In 1964, Dr. Harry and Mary Gibson purchased the home.

Erected by Montana

Paid Advertisement

Click or scan to see
this page online

Historical Society.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Architecture • Parks & Recreational Areas • Settlements & Settlers • War, World II. In addition, it is included in the Montana National Register Sign Program series list.

Location. 48° 11.706′ N, 114° 18.192′ W. Marker is in Kalispell, Montana, in Flathead County. It is on 6th Avenue East near 5th Street East, on the left when traveling south. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 505 6th Avenue East, Kalispell MT 59901, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this marker is in Western Montana

and in Glacier Country.

It is also in the American Mountain West

and in the Lewis & Clark Corridor.

Globally, it is in North America,

the Rocky Mountains,

the Western Hemisphere,

the Western World,

and the Anglosphere.

Historically, it finds itself in what was once Rupert’s Land

and also the Louisiana Purchase.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Spafford House (here, next to this

Elliot House and Marker image. Click for more information.

Photographed by Barry Swackhamer, August 19, 2020

2. Elliot House and Marker

Flathead Beacon website entry
Click for more information.

marker); Ross House (a few steps from this marker); Sliter House (a few steps from this marker); McKeown/Braunberger House (within shouting distance of this marker); Conrad/Tobie House (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); a different marker also named Conrad/Tobie House (about 300 feet away); F.W. Cole House (about 300 feet away); Phillips House (about 300 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Kalispell.

Credits. This page was last revised on June 10, 2023. It was originally submitted on November 16, 2020, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 448 times since then and 39 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on November 16, 2020, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.