The fictional family in my work-in-progress lives in a large house in Portland, Oregon. They built the house and moved into it sometime around 1870. As I’m editing the novel, I realize I need more details on the location and the layout of the house and its grounds. So, I have been researching actual mansions in Portland in the 1860s and 1870s.
My favorite model for their home so far is the Jacob Kamm House, a French Second Empire style mansion built in 1871. Its original location, at what is now Main and SW 14th Street, is not ideal for my novel, so I will have to move it elsewhere in town. And it isn’t quite right for my family, but it gives me something to describe as I write.
Other good models for Portland homes in this era include
- The Ralph and Isaac Jacobs homes, which were two of several Italianate mansions in Portland, at SW Park and Montgomery
- The Corbett mansion at SW Fifth and Yamhill
- The Ladd House at SW Broadway and Columbia
The Corbett House and the Ladd House were on the edge of town when they were built, along with many other large homes. But the city developed around these homes, until they were at the center of downtown. Now, in the 21st century, all that is left of these stately abodes is the Ladd Carriage House. Almost all the fine old mansions have been demolished, including the main Ladd building.
Although these mansions seem ostentatious, they fit the lifestyle of my fictional family. In the late 19th century, Portland was a major West Coast port, and many fortunes were made in the timber and shipping industries. Portland’s business leaders invested a portion of their wealth into grand homes. Their houses featured large rooms, high ceilings, and luxurious furnishings. Not only were the houses well-appointed, but the grounds around them also featured large gardens and lawns.
Portland might not have had homes as large as the Downton Abbey mansion, but the mansion I have in mind for my novel could easily have housed twenty or so people.
Along with the primary house setting, I am also researching commercial buildings in Portland. I’ll try to feature those in a future post.
When you read historical fiction, do you like to see a lot of descriptive detail in the settings?
When I read historical fiction, I love the details that draw me into the story in place, people stories and time.
Blessings and continued writing success as you research your novel and its backstories/history. Have a good one KC.
Thanks for the comment, Suzette.
I agree with you that the details are what make historical fiction real. But as a reader, I tend to skim through description, so as a writer, I struggle to be sure I’m including enough to enrich the story.
Theresa
Yes, well said Theresa. There is always the challenge of the balance. Happy writing!
Hi Theresa, yes, I love descriptions of settings in books.
In fact, I’m reading your book, “Where Heart Shall Fail,” and I’m on page 117.
I’m enjoying it a lot and looking forward to reading more of your books.
Thank you for updating us on your research. Very interesting.
Rosie,
I’m so glad you’re enjoying When Heart Shall Fail! I loved how the characters David and Faith developed as I was writing. I hope you’ll leave a review when you’re done with the book.
As I mentioned in another comment, I have trouble writing settings and other description, though it is really important in historical fiction. That’s one reason I make several passes as I edit — I have to go back and add setting information to my first draft.
Theresa
Thanks for your answer and you can count on me for a review.
I’m in the Goodreads Challenge this year again and it keeps me accountable on my reading and I leave reviews in there each month.
Yes, David and Faith’s story is making me turn the pages, for sure. 🙂
Descriptions are hard to decide on, aren’t they? Yours seem to have the perfect amount without disrupting the storyline.
Thanks again,
Rosie
So much more than I imagined. Development of the city and the magnitude of the mansions. Good research!
Thanks, Pam
I like to read – and to write – the details which bring me to that place and time.