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2018-07-07 12.56.50

Ezra Thompson, Jr. House

Constructed in 1896, this large, two-story, Victorian Eclectic style dwelling was built for Frederick C. Gentsch. He was the general superintendent of the Pacific Express Company and owned the home until 1900, when it was sold to Ezra Thompson, Jr. With mining interests in Park City, Thompson also served on the Park City Council. Beginning in 1900, he was elected to two terms as the mayor of Salt Lake City. He also had large real estate holdings in Salt Lake City and was director of the National Bank of the Republic. The house remained in the Thompson family until 1943, when it was sold to the Children’s Service Society who owned the property for many years. A major restoration of the property was completed in 2008 by current owner Kevin L. Bott Family with Max J. Smith of MJSA Architects.

Located in the South Temple Historic District in Salt Lake City, Utah.

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(from Preservation Utah’s walking tour)
Gentsch/Thompson House
576 E. South Temple 1889, architect unknown
This house was built in 1889 for Frederick Gentsch, a general superintendent of the Pacific Express Company. The bestknown occupants of the house, however, were Ezra and Emily Thompson who purchased the house in 1898. Ezra Thompson had a profitable career as an officer of several Park City mining companies. He was elected mayor of Salt Lake City in 1899 and served three successful terms in office. Thompson was also an auto enthusiast and bought an Owens Magnetic electric car which he recharged at Whitmore Oxygen just down the street.

Ezra and Emily Thompson lived in the house until 1916 when they purchased the Keith Mansion at 529 E. South Temple. Their oldest son, Lynn, continued to reside here until 1943. The Children’s Service Society then purchased the house and adapted it for office space.

The Gentsch/Thompson House, with its irregular façade and five jutting bays, is Victorian Eclectic in style. The most prominent feature of the house is the large square tower with an unusual curved hip roof. Also of note are the ornamental ironwork over the porch and the leaded and stained glass windows, all original to the house.