MANASSAS, Va. — On April 26. Hugh and Kerry Ickrath of Manassas held an open house at 9300 Prescott Avenue.
The home, which is over 100 years old, was just days away from demolition when the couple and a few investors bought it via short sale last year. Sadly, the home had been deteriorating since the mid 1980s and was eventually boarded up. Ickrath and several neighbors worked tirelessly to save the historic building.
Over the past year, the renovation has been on high gear. Large windows no longer sport plywood, but are glowing with white paint, a new wrap around porch graces the house and bright purple paint edges the topmost floor of the victorian. Guests were smiling and laughing with amazement as they toured the home on Saturday. The event was scheduled to run from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., but people started showing up at 10 o’clock.
“We were up late last night,” said Hugh Ickrath, owner. “There was work being done right up til the last minute and there’s more to be done, but we have come a long way!”
From the flooring to the molding in each room, Ickrath said they entire house was gutted. Everything including, wiring, plumbing, appliances and even a hook up for a washer and dryer had to be upgraded or added to the original structure. The Ickraths said that they wanted to keep as much of the original flavor of the home as they could while modernizing it. Bathrooms had to be added on each floor and closets as the original home had only a few of each.
“I think my favorite part was dealing with all sorts of different workers,” Icrath said. “At one point they even stayed in our home.”
This past week, the Ickraths put the home on the market. The property is just under a half an acre with a small shed and a two car garage. Ickrath said the home is around 2,800 square feet and has new everything. Last Fall, the Ickraths opened the home and donated over $3,000 from visitors to Habitat for Humanity of Prince William County. Saturday’s event was even more popular, over 700 people checked out 9300 Prescott and the $5.00 door charge again went to Habitat for Humanity.
“I really enjoyed working on the kitchen,” said Kerry Ickrath, owner.”I had a vision on how I wanted it to look; with patience and paint we got it there!”
By the end of the day the now beautiful home on Prescott Avenue brought in $3,500 for charity. But more guests were scheduled to arrive during the evening. Ickrath said that it was Prom night and one of the neighborhood teens would have her picture taken in front of the home. Today, it’s hard to believe that 9300 Prescott was headed for the wrecking ball not long ago.
“I can’t wait til we can welcome a new family here,” Ickrath said during the open house. “It has been a long haul, but totally worth it.”
Photos By Mary Rosenthol
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
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