Click above images to enlarge Burtis, Richard C., House 2163 South Ringle Road, Watrousville - Tuscola County Property Type brick house Historic Use DOMESTIC Current Use DOMESTIC Style Second Empire Narrative Description The Richard C. Burtis House is a two-story highly ornamented Second Empire building with walls of brick standing on a raised stone foundation. Brackets and a decorative frieze support a Mansard roof that features elaborate, gabled dormers and a decorative slate shingle pattern. The facade is dominated by an off-center bay window surmounted by a steep octagonal tower broken by multiple windows. Three trabeated porches with decorative supports project from the facades. Some outbuildings including a barn and carriage house are extant. Statement of Significance The Burtis House is one of the finest examples of Second Empire architecture in Tuscola County and represents the prosperity of its owner. The house was built from 1879 to 1880 for Richard C. Burtis, a shoemaker and one of the area's most prominent landowners. Maintained as a residence, the building has undergone no major alterations and retains its original character. Period of Significance 1866-1900 Significant Date(s) 1879-1880 Registry Type(s) 06/26/1975 National Register listed 11/15/1973 State Register listed Site ID# P24847