In 1985, this property was the only empty parcel left on Plymouth Circle. Many homes in this area had already been demolished as part of urban renewal. Corn Hill resident Edward Lester built a new foundation on this site and arranged to have this house moved from Hertel Street in the City of Rochester. Mr. Lester, a Corn Hill artist, lived here for approximately 20 years. In the recent past, the house served as a rehabilitation home for both Pathways of Rochester and Helio Health.
The current owners sought a diverse, safe, urban neighborhood near various parts of the city and purchased the property in 2020 despite the home’s disrepair. Its location on Lunsford Circle, giving them a front-row seat to strolling neighbors, Gazebo concerts, and the Corn Hill Arts Festival, was ideal! Extensive renovations to both the home and the outside property ensued, including the building of a 50-foot dry-stacked stone wall surrounding the wrap-around porch. The wall and outdoor barbecue area were crafted using boulders from Finger Lakes vineyards and farms. Salvaged red medina stone, a throwback to Corn Hill’s grand sidewalks and steps of yesteryear, was used for the new walkways. This home originally featured a detached garage and an open-air patio. The current owners connected the house and garage with a first-floor master bedroom suite, laundry room, and powder room.
An original rendition of the Iroquois Creation Story by Seneca Nation artist Peter Jemison anchors the open space of the kitchen and dining room. Much of the first-floor artwork represents ethnically and racially diverse artists and subjects.
