On Thursday, December 10, the Spencer Hometown Holidays and Community Appearance committees will jointly sponsor the Candlelight Tour of Homes.
Five local homeowners will open their doors for a self-guided tour of pieces of the town’s history captured in woodwork and architecture.
“The idea is to get people excited about old homes so we can preserve them,” said Eric Lentz, 2009 Candlelight Tour of Homes chairperson.
The homes have weathered a century of hot southern summers and mild winters and have even avoided encroaching fast food joints and gas stations.
“It gives the town an opportunity to show itself off,” Lentz said.
The Candlelight Tour of Homes will feature several homes along Fourth Street, Baldwin and South Spencer avenues. All are decorated for the holidays.
The tours are self-guided, and visitors may begin at any home. The ticket is a tour booklet that includes a map of each location and a brief history of each home.
“The architecture in older homes is so different from what you see today,” said Beth Morris Nance, co-chair for the event. “I think the tour brings new awareness to the value of historic home restoration.”
Tour hours are from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, December 10. Tickets cost $8 in advance or $10 night of tour. They are available at Debbie Barnhardt Jewelers and Spencer Home Supply in Spencer. They are also available at the Rowan Visitor’s Bureau.
Cider and hot chocolate will be served at the Hospitality Porch, a first for the tour. Tickets will also be available on the night of the tour at the hospitality porch. Hosts are Leslie and Joseph Cataldo who also live on Fourth Street.
Lentz said he expects 200 guests to visit the homes. This is the fourth year for the tour. “For $10 it’s great entertainment and a wonderful way to support the Spencer community,” Lentz said.
Visit www.spencerhometownholidays.com for more information about this or other holiday events happening in Spencer.