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Armstrong House: A Victorian Gem in Britt

Explore Victorian elegance and local history at the Armstrong House Museum in Britt, Iowa. A step back in time!

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The Armstrong House in Britt, Iowa, is a beautifully preserved Victorian home built in 1896. Once the residence of a prominent local banker, it now serves as a museum showcasing Victorian-era life and local history.

A brief summary to Armstrong House

Local tips

  • Tours are available by appointment only, so call ahead to schedule your visit.
  • Check the Hancock County Historical Society's Facebook page for information on special events.
  • Allow at least an hour to fully explore the house and its exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Armstrong House is located at 266 2nd St SE in Britt. From the intersection of Main Avenue and 2nd St SE in downtown Britt, walk east on 2nd St SE for approximately two blocks. The Armstrong House will be on your right. The walk is short and easy.

  • Driving

    From Highway 18, take the exit for Britt and follow the signs to 2nd St SE. Turn onto 2nd St SE, and the Armstrong House will be on your right at 266 2nd St SE. Free street parking is available.

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Discover more about Armstrong House

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.

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