Located in the historic Ohio River port of Madison, Indiana, the Shrewsbury-Windle House is an 1840s Greek Revival masterpiece celebrated for its three-story, free-standing spiral staircase. Historic Madison, Inc. founder John Windle and his wife Ann bequested the structure to the organization as it's “architectural centerpiece”, with the ultimate goal of keeping the property in active public use while preserving and celebrating its historic fabric.
RATIO developed a Preservation Plan and Historic Structure Report to assess this National Historic Landmark’s condition, needs and historical significance, while exploring interpretive and programming options to provide a roadmap for future restoration and conservation.
The first construction phase, consisting of exterior restoration and accessibility improvements, was completed in 2014. The project included repair of historic masonry, woodwork, and ironwork, replication of lost wood shutters, a new roof, and restoration of the original 1849 color scheme. The second phase will include restoration of interior spaces, conservation of the original paint finishes, and sensitive replacement of obsolete mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
“[Historic Madison, Inc.] has raised the bar and set new standards for restoring and re-visioning historic places through this outstanding restoration.” - Marsh Davis, President, Indiana Landmarks
