The Gregg-Crites Octagon House
Located along Crites Road in Circleville, the Gregg-Crites Octagon House is one of Pickaway County’s most distinctive historic landmarks. Built in the mid-1800s, this rare eight-sided home reflects a fascinating chapter in American architecture and a powerful story of community preservation.
A Unique Part of Pickaway County’s Story
The Gregg-Crites Octagon House is believed to have been constructed around 1855–1856, during a brief period when octagon-style homes gained popularity across the United States. These structures were designed to emphasize natural light, airflow, and efficient use of space.
Inside, the home originally featured a central free-standing spiral staircase, with rooms arranged like slices of a pie. Each room connected directly to the next, allowing easy movement throughout the house without traditional hallways. The interior included detailed oak and pine woodwork that highlighted the craftsmanship of the era.
Some historians believe the octagonal design may have been inspired by Circleville’s original circular town layout, which once featured an octagonal courthouse at its center — making the home a unique reflection of the community’s early identity.
Saved by the Community
In the early 2000s, the Octagon House faced possible demolition as surrounding land was redeveloped. In response, local residents organized to protect the structure, forming the Roundtown Conservancy, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the home.
In 2004, the house was carefully lifted, transported, and relocated to its current site along Crites Road, where it was placed on a new foundation. This extraordinary effort ensured the building’s survival and preserved it as part of Pickaway County’s historic landscape.
National Recognition
In 2021, the Gregg-Crites Octagon House was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its architectural and historical significance at the national level. This designation affirms the importance of preserving the home and supports ongoing restoration efforts through potential preservation incentives and grants.
Restoring the Octagon House Today
Restoration of the Gregg-Crites Octagon House is an ongoing process. The Roundtown Conservancy continues to raise funds to stabilize, repair, and restore the building with the goal of returning it to active use for public enjoyment.
Fundraising and public engagement efforts include:
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Historical tours
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Self-guided flashlight tours
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Family-friendly seasonal events
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Special community programs and festivals
Every visit and event helps support preservation work and keeps this rare historic structure standing for future generations.
Visiting the Gregg-Crites Octagon House
The Gregg-Crites Octagon House is located at:
440 Crites Road
Circleville, OH 43113
Please note that the Octagon House is not open for daily walk-in visits. The property is open to the public only during scheduled events or by appointment.
Visitors may explore the home through:
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Historical tours offered by appointment
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Scheduled flashlight tours and special evening programs
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Seasonal and community events hosted throughout the year
For tour inquiries, private bookings, or additional information, visitors may contact:
gcoctagonhouse@gmail.com
Because event dates and tour opportunities vary, visitors are encouraged to follow The Gregg-Crites Octagon House on Facebook for the most up-to-date information, announcements, and schedule updates:
https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Gregg-Crites-Octagon-House/61551134916296/
A Landmark Worth Preserving
The Gregg-Crites Octagon House represents more than a rare architectural style. It reflects Pickaway County’s history, the dedication of local residents who stepped in to save it, and the ongoing work to ensure it remains part of the community.
Through tours, events, and continued restoration, the Octagon House offers visitors a chance to connect with local history while supporting preservation efforts that will benefit future generations.
