Detail of right sidelight

We finally took the plunge and took a look under the plywood panels above and to the side of our front door this weekend (with a very helpful hand from Missy’s dad). We weren’t very optimistic prior to the treasure hunt, since we figured who in their right mind would cover up sidelights and a transom with painted plywood. Thankfully we were wrong!

Underneath the plywood panels was a great condition transom (the part above the door) and two leaded-glass sidelights — the right one in very good condition and the left sidelight (facing to the street) needing some minor repairs. That must have been the reason for the plywood, since it looks like a baseball went through it and destroyed two of the panels. Looks to be easy to fix, however… so you have to wonder why the previous owners did not fix the panels. It could have added a couple thousand to the asking price, easily, as they look to be in pretty great condition and original – so like 80 years old.

Anyway, it made our weekend. Now we have to tempt fate again and see if the previous owner told the truth when they said the hardwoods under our carpets are in great condition. (Yeah, I know, don’t ask… we’ve found enough weird things in this house to not question anything any longer!)

Larger right sidelight

Transom above door