10/09/2025
The George Stone House
Tucked away in the heart of Marion, Iowa, the George Stone House stands as a modest yet remarkable symbol of early Midwestern settlement. Built with sturdy craftsmanship and steeped in local heritage, the house reflects the story of one of Marion’s earliest residents and offers a glimpse into 19th-century frontier life.
The George Stone House may not have the grandeur of a Southern mansion or the fame of a political residence, but its value lies in its authenticity and endurance. As one of Iowa’s oldest stone homes, it tells a quiet but powerful story of settlement, craftsmanship, and the roots of community. For those interested in American pioneer architecture and Midwest history, the George Stone House is a must-see artifact from a bygone era.
Location & Construction
The George Stone House is located at 1030 26th Avenue in Marion, Iowa, a short distance from the city's historical downtown. It was constructed in 1850 by George Stone, one of the town's early settlers and a prominent figure in the development of Linn County.
Built from locally quarried limestone, the house is one of the oldest surviving stone structures in the region. Stone, a native of Vermont, brought with him knowledge of traditional stone masonry, which he employed in constructing this durable and enduring home.
Architectural Style & Notable Features
The George Stone House is an example of vernacular stone architecture, a style common among settlers who built homes using materials readily available in the surrounding environment.
Key architectural features include:
Thick limestone walls, providing natural insulation
Symmetrical window placement
Simple gabled roof
Original wooden door and frame
Hand-hewn beams and original stone fireplace inside
Its unembellished style reflects the practical mindset of early settlers while still showcasing skilled craftsmanship.
Current Use & Visiting
The George Stone House is preserved as a historic landmark and is under the care of the Marion Historical Society. Though it is not regularly open for public tours, it is featured during special local heritage events and historical walking tours of Marion.
Efforts have been made to maintain the structure’s integrity and educate the public about its importance. The grounds are accessible for exterior viewing year-round, and interpretive signage provides background on George Stone and the era in which the house was built.
History & Grounds
George Stone played a crucial role in Marion’s early development, not only as a builder but as a contributor to the town’s civic life. The house, which was once part of a larger working farm, served as a home, gathering place, and community landmark during Marion’s formative years.
In the decades that followed, the house passed through various private hands before local historians and preservationists recognized its significance. It has since been listed on the National Register of Historic Places and remains a rare example of mid-19th-century limestone construction in Iowa.
The surrounding grounds offer a glimpse of the home’s original rural setting, with mature trees and open space preserving a sense of its agricultural past.
📸: