Historic Rehabilitation Winner:
Murphy Farm
Kevin Murphy is credited with guiding the painstaking restoration of his old family home.
The Gothic Revival farmhouse, built in 1847, was one of the first of its style in Knox County. Kevin is a sixth generation descendent of the original owner, Robert Murphy, who started farming here in 1796.
Clinch River Custom Builders, led by Chris and Simon Hodshon, carried out the rehabilitation under Kevin’s guidance. Highlights of the interior work include restoration of the original pine floors, fireplaces, windows and doors.
Period materials and furnishings complement the rooms.
Porches were renovated to mimic the fine Gothic Revival details of the 19th century. A pressed metal roof was added to replace the rusting, leaking cover of yesteryear.
The farm, which includes the original smokehouse and early springhouse, has been conserved and is now recognized as a Century Farm by the State. It continues to function as a working farm.
Developer: Kevin Murphy
Architect: Randall DeFord
Contractor: Clinch River Custom Builders