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Dean House

A.J. Dean passed away unexpectedly in 1938, and the home was almost auctioned off in 1942

By Jaix Chaix

Towers. Tudors. Fairy tales. Indeed, these were some of the popular influences upon Kalispell architecture during the Roaring ‘20s.

While there are many fine examples of these elements in architecture throughout the Flathead Valley, perhaps there is none finer than the Dean House at 244 Woodland Ave. – especially if you consider re-purposing a plus.

The Dean House bears the name of Alonzo J. Dean (aka A.J. Dean). In 1927, Dean retired from the J.C. Penney store in Kalispell, which he established in 1914 (then known under the name of “Golden Rule” stores), and worked as manager for many years. Perhaps like many other folks, the idea of an idle retirement didn’t sit well with Dean, for he soon took interest in real estate investment.

In 1928, he took a chance on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity when the carriage house, barn and stable upon the Conrad estate were being sold. It had been several years since Alicia Conrad had moved away, while the estate lingered. Dean jumped at the chance to buy what was left of “the grandest barn in the Flathead.” The carriage house was built with superb materials – and came with a pedigree, as the Conrad mansion, carriage house, barn, and other outbuildings were designed by famed Spokane architect Kirtland Cutter.

And with the wisdom gained from years in mercantile and commerce, Dean perceived there’s more to be had in profit in re-selling things piece-by-piece, rather than together in one sum. With the help of local architect Fred Brinkman (a master of revival-styles and renovations), Dean split up the carriage house and converted it into five separate homes (one of which is now a commercial space). In so doing, Dean not only made the most of his investment (in some bygone manner of frugality and ingenuity), he proved that “re-purposing” and “up-cycling” aren’t just recent trends nor HGTV buzzwords.

Dean used the middle, towered section of the Conrad carriage house and converted it into this unique, Tudor-Revival home for himself. Indeed, the tower that now graces the Dean House was once the place where night watchman kept an eye over the Conrad estate. And it now stands a stone’s throw (literally) from where it was originally built (at the back of the Conrad Mansion).

Incidentally, Dean converted the adjacent section of the former Conrad carriage house and used it for a rental property, which is known as the “Dean Rental Property” located just a few blocks away (19 Fifth Ave. E.). Both feature Tudor stylings, as the Tudor-Revival style (and other revival styles) were quite popular in the late 1920s. The tower, half-timbering, plank patterns, stucco and other elements hark to the Tudor style. Other features, such as the sloping, curved roof at the entrance add a fairy-tale/cottage-style feel to the home. And the meandering walkway, ivy, and landscaping conjure a “… through the woods” sentiment.

It’s worth noting, particularly from a broader historical perspective, that a visit to the Conrad Mansion — without taking a moment to appreciate the Dean House across the street — is a bit like reading a book and skipping the last chapter.

A.J. Dean passed away unexpectedly in 1938, and the home was almost auctioned off in 1942 (much like the way Dean acquired the property). Thus, the Dean House has had an interesting history, including certain “claims to fame.” And whether by scheme, savvy, or serendipity, Dean helped preserve some important aspects of Kalispell’s local history and architecture — including ones that conceal and disguise their origins. 

Jaix Chaix is a columnist and author of Flathead Valley Landmarks and other local history books that are available for sale at the Flathead Beacon at 17 Main St. in Kalispell.