John W. Sheppard House, Charlotte

The John W Sheppard House holds significant historical value in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County as one of the few Fourth Ward houses with its original site and orientation, constructed by businessmen of that era. The property was built by 1899 as the residence of John W Sheppard, one of the early university-trained professional pharmacists in the United States, who co-founded the Woodall and Sheppard Drugstore in 1896.

Architecturally, this townhouse is a prime example of the Free Classic, Queen Anne style prevalent throughout the late 19th century and, as such, offers valuable insights into the architectural history of Charlotte and the New South's prosperity during that period. Among other features, this Victorian-era home showcases projecting bays, dormers with decorative details, and varied rooflines. Its exterior boasts original horizontal board siding, Masonite siding, and wood shingles, reflecting the era's construction innovations and mass-produced materials.

Inside, the house's historic fabric remains largely intact and unaltered, with wood paneling, original pine moldings, wooden pocket door hardware, plaster walls, and 11-foot-high ceilings. Tiger oak and pine flooring add to the interior's charm. The stained glass windows feature an opalescent floral motif, and original gaslight-era sconces still adorn rooms and hallways.

The house remained in the Sheppard family until 1961. In 1991, it was converted into a bed-and-breakfast.