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The Jarvis Mansion
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The
History of The Jarvis MansionThe David F. Jarvis House is located at 220 Pollock Street in beautiful, historic downtown New Bern. This substantial home was lavish living for the time period, and was designed by Herbert Woodley Simpson, prolific local architect. This early colonial revival-style dwelling was completed in 1903. The exterior includes elaborate Queen Anne elements and is considered to be a smaller version of the William B. Blades house, but more simplified and conservative. The original plans called for a turret with a colonial roof. The interior plans include the traditional Queen Anne flow of space with large rooms adjoined with pocket doors. Upon entrance, the large foyer and parlor are detailed with elaborate craftsmanship and an oak-paneled staircase. There are two notable interesting pieces, two Federal-period mantels that were transferred from the John R. Green house, which date to 1920. They both display outstanding craftsmanship and detail. Mr. Jarvis was born in Swan Quarter, Hyde County, where his three brothers remained; G.M., Isaac, and Brock. After settling into New Bern he married Charlotte Odell who was born and raised in Illinois and made the move after marriage. Together they had one child, Parkhill Odell Jarvis, who was born in 1897. According to a business directory in 1914 D.F. Jarvis operated a large high-class dry goods and notions store that was, “handsomely stocked with superior assortment of goods, embroideries, lace, notions, trunks, carpets, and oil clothes a specialty,” and was “one of the leading and popular merchants of New Bern.” He sold his business in 1929, but was still very involved. He lived in this house until he passed away on the front porch, July 7, 1931. His son, Parkhill, inherited the house where he and his mother resided until her death in 1937. Parkhill was a well rounded man and well respected, just like his father. Parkhill served in the U.S. Army during World War I and was a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He then married Eva Dortch. After many years of different jobs he finally figured out a career suitable for him, so he started the, Jarvis Report, a weekly publication of all deeds, transfers, and judgments in Craven County. These reports were commonly used by attorneys and many other local businesses dealing with transactions of business. He was also a charter member of the New Bern Golf and Country Club and a founding member of the New Bern Historical Society. He lived there until his death, which was in the house, in 1980. As part of the New Bern Historical District we have taken careful steps in preserving this home. We have updated it to today’s needs without sacrificing the home and its antiquity, in order to keep it authentic and original. The David Jarvis House is listed on the National Registry of Historic homes. |