The History Behind 303 North Main Street, Springfield, Tennessee
Every old house keeps a picture album inside its walls, images of days lived, heartache, and laughter. Here are a few shots from the one at 303 North Main Street, Springfield, Tennessee.
The Powell Family and Their Home
J.E. Powell was born on September 15, 1875, to parents W.A. and Elizabeth Long Powell. As a young man, he worked on his father’s farm in the fourth district and eventually took over its management. He married Rosie Pearl Qualls on November 4, 1894, and they had four daughters. They built a grand house in an eclectic prairie four-square style with heavy Greek Revival columns on the front porch, sometime between 1912 and 1914. J.E. became connected with the tobacco prizing firm of Farthing, Powell, and Pitt. In 1913, he and his father organized the Farmers Bank and Trust. It seems likely that Charlie Brandon, a local builder, constructed the house since he was one of the incorporators of the Farmers Bank and Trust.
The Qualls Family and Their Legacy
Richard E. Qualls and His Businesses
In 1922, the home was sold to Richard E. Qualls. Richard was born on March 13, 1878, to parents Jessie Ellis and Emmaline Priscilla Porter Qualls. He opened a music store in Springfield in 1899, selling pianos, organs, and sewing machines. In 1907, he opened a grocery, hardware, and machinery store in Adams. He secured rights for a Ford dealership and opened R.E. Qualls Motor Company in the brick garage at 411 North Main Street before relocating the business to 801 South Main in 1919. He would later offer brands beyond Ford.
The Qualls Family’s Life
Richard married Rebecca Bird Holman on September 22, 1901. Mrs. Qualls was known as “Birdie” to most people and “Mother Bird” to her grandchildren. She was remembered as a skilled cook, preparing Sunday dinners and holiday meals for the entire family. Grandchildren recall this memorable table rule: “You can reach for food on the table as long as you remain seated with both feet flat on the floor.”
The Head Family and Modern Memories
The house was sold to Bruce and Laurel Head in 1989. The Heads have seen their children grow up in the house and their grandchildren sit and swing on the porch. The home continues to stand as a testament to the families who have called it home, each leaving their mark on its rich history.