Armstrong House: A Victorian Gem in Britt

Step back in time at the Armstrong House, a stunning example of Victorian architecture located in Britt, Iowa. Built in 1896 for Lewis Larson, a Norwegian immigrant and president of the First National Bank, the house reflects the prosperity and elegance of the era. Larson reportedly wanted a grander house than a nearby merchant, resulting in the home's impressive size and dual towers. The house combines Colonial Revival and Queen Anne architectural styles, featuring a wraparound porch, balconies, and intricate hand-carved woodwork of yellow pine and oak. Stained glass windows and a marble fireplace add to its charm. The home also includes unique features like a butler's pantry and a secondary staircase used by the Norwegian maids who lived and worked in the house. In 1914, H.C. Armstrong purchased the house, and in 1969, his family donated it to the Hancock County Historical Society. Since 1970, it has operated as a museum, furnished with Victorian-era furniture, local antiques, memoirs, and historical accounts. The attic displays miniature replicas of a rural school and church, while the basement contains vintage tools and artifacts. A visit offers a glimpse into the lives of early Iowa settlers and the history of Hancock County.