House #6

31 Panola Street. Asheville has long attracted people who come to the mountains for their health.  In 1901, Pingree and Mary McFerren moved here from St. Louis, to improve the health of their daughter.  Pingree was a businessman and also a popular conductor on the B&O Railroad – winning a silver cup in 1904 as the “most popular conductor running into St. Louis.”  Unfortunately the McFerren’s daughter died in 1903. The following year, they commissioned Richard Sharp Smith, supervising architect of the Biltmore House, to design a new home at 31 Panola Street.

In 1914, the McFerrens sold 31 Panola to Albert and May Von Gundell, who retired to Asheville after many years in the cotton export business.  Albert had been born in Hanover, Germany, the son of Lt. General Von Gundell, “aide to blind King George of Hanover.”  The Von Gundells owned the house until 1939, and were followed by a succession of short-term owners and renters.

Merissa Gail Walkenstein purchased her home in 2003, and undertook an extensive program of repair and renovation.  The kitchen was expanded and completely remodeled; drop ceilings were replaced and crown moldings added; the front porch was rebuilt, and hardscaping was installed in the rear yard.  Original features include the first floor windows with tracery, front door, bas relief over the fireplace, and pocket doors at the stairs and between the living room and the dining room.

Merissa Walkenstein is a Juilliard-trained professional violinist.  She and several musician friends, along with their children, will be playing holiday and chamber music in her house during the tour.

Please enjoy cookies made by neighborhood bakers at 31 Panola Street.