fireplace surround identification

[paddmcbev]

I recently bought a house in the Cincinnati area, built around 1931 that has this fireplace surround and I would like to know if it may be original to the house or added later. My wife & daughter don't like it and want to tear it out and replace it but I would rather have a valid reason not to and wanted to know more about it

 

[begreen]

That's pretty cool. Looks like one from the 1930s. Try to save it if removed. It should go to a home restorer.

 

[paddmcbev]

Thanks, I agree that it needs to be salvaged at the very least and for now I'm standing firm that it stays. We may see if the fireplace/chimney itself can be restored too

 

[bholler]

I'm not sure something looks off about it. No signs of age. And it almost looks like a faux finish

 

[webby3650]

It Appears to be a faux finished imitation fireplace to me.

 

[begreen]

It's possible it is a period reproduction. In our area Pratt and Larson still make great period tiles. Still, these repos are not cheap. It should be salvaged rather than trashed. If possible, get it appraised. original, the value may be surprising. I'm not saying this is the case here but some Batchelder fireplaces go for $25,000 at auction.

 

[bholler]

It's possible it is a period reproduction. In our area Pratt and Larson still make great period tiles. Still, these repos are not cheap. It should be salvaged rather than trashed.

Oh I agree even if it's a repo unless it's actually just faux and made out of wood which I have seen. It's hard to tell without being there in person

 

[Grinnell]

worth checking out and not trashing a original tile surround

 

[bholler]

worth checking out and not trashing a original tile surround

Absolutely it should be investigated more

 

[webby3650]

I think the hearth is original, and this modern piece is sitting in front of the original fireplace.