This modest brick home built c. 1835, in the side of the hill derives its name from the famous Elm which once provided its shade.  Although oral tradition places the building date at 1830, brick buildings were more common after 1835, at the same time that Greek Revival detailing was making an impact on the Maumee Valley.  The slender pilasters and transom with hand blown glass in the entranceway, the six-over-six windows on the street level, and the eyebrow windows on the top floor below the tin roof are typical Greek Revival elements.  It is thought that the lower floor below street level was originally used to house livestock.  The wrought-iron stars on the front facade connect to rods that once supported the walls.  Original fireplaces are found in several rooms.  The banister on the first-floor stairway and the sunroom at the rear of the house were added in 1929 by owner Claire Hoffman.  The current owner continues to enjoy and preserve the home's unique qualities without disturbing its architectural integrity.   

This house was featured on the Maumee Bicentennial Quilt in 1976.  The brochure states:  "Elm Cottage" takes its name from a towering, gnarled elm which once stood opposite and which is said to have been used as an Indian lookout over the Maumee River.  In order to protect the landmark tree, the neighborhood pressured the city to refrain from paving the street.  When lightening stuck it, however, the tree began to rot and in time it had to be cut down.  The Federal style brick house, with its distinctive bulls-eye glass panes above the entry is owned by Mr. and Mrs. Robert C. Foster."  (Block made by Phyllis Foster, Row 4, block 4)

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