THE CIRCUS HOUSE

Columbus, OH

This three-story, 7,414 sq ft residence was designed by the Columbus firm of Yost & Packard in an eclectic style. They used elements from numerous architectural styles including Richardsonian Romanesque, with Victorian flavors. It was built by the family of Peter and Mary Sells, owners of the Sells Brothers Circus, which was later bought by Ringling Brothers. The dramatic rooflines, curved Moorish style windows, and terracotta-tile roof suggest a similar profile to that of a circus big top. Once settled in the new home, the Sells' furnished the interiors with pieces from their travels around the world, creating a lavish and exotic feel. Sells built the home to placate his disgruntled wife Mary, who did not share his enthusiasm for the circus, animals, and the frequent travels the business involved. Mary was alleged to have had an affair with William Bott, the wealthy owner of the Bott Brothers' Billiards and Saloon. Sells split from his wife in 1899 in a well-publicized, scandalous divorce. Urban legend recalls that the Sells kept lions and elephants in the basement, and that a carousel was installed in the house's third floor. We may now understand why Mary wanted out.

After searching the internet for a sketch subject while in town for The Ohio Star Ball, this one caught my eye, for its’ strength of character and composition - symmetrical at its’ core, yet asymmetric in detail. I found it to be about a 20-minute walk from my hotel, facing a large city park. The overcast skies threatened snow, which never happened. The sketch was organized in pencil, outlined in ink while on site, but completed later in the warmth of the hotel.