Located at the southern edge of the city, the Gregg-Crites Octagonal House is one of the most unique architectural landmarks in Pickaway County. This eight-sided residence in Circleville, Ohio, is believed to have been built between 1855 and 1856 by a man named George Gregg.
Although the exact history is imprecise, the house may have been built to resemble the octagonal courthouse located at the centre of the city when Circleville was originally designed in a circular shape. During that era, octagonal-style dwellings gained popularity across the country due to efficient use of space and superior natural ventilation and lighting.
The interior of the house originally featured an independent central spiral staircase, with rooms arranged like slices of pizza. Each room connected directly to the others, allowing free movement without the wasted space of traditional hallways.
In the early years of the new millennium, the Octagonal House faced possible demolition when surrounding land was purchased for redevelopment. The octagonal house was carefully relocated to its current location on Crites Road, south of the city centre. Fearing the loss of this special structure, Circleville residents organised to protect it by forming a non-profit organisation dedicated to the preservation of the residence.
In 2021, the Gregg-Crites Octagonal House was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This recognition highlights its architectural and historical significance at the national level.
