The Social House dates back to the turn of the century when Judge Orlando Burrell (former Congressman who bequeathed Burrell's Woods to the city) was serving as mayor of about 2900 people. Main Street in Carmi from Main Cross to Church was being paved with cobblestones, and the old board sidewalks were being removed to make way for modern, concrete walks.
Francis M. Parish, an attorney (who would succeed Burell as mayor), began construction of the home on West Main, then outside the city limits, but because of financial difficulties, gave way to jeweler B. A. St. John, who completed it. St. John later built a house at 110 Stewart Street (where two of the current Social House owners now reside) and sold the 500 West Main Street home back to Parish, by then a judge, who lived at that location in Carmi until his death.
John G. and Suma (Randolph) Powell bought the home in 1934, moving from the former Williams mansion at Main and Main Cross Streets. He died in 1939, and the house was renovated and enlarged after his death. His widow died in 1959, and one of Powell's daughters, Suma, and husband, Hugh Hale, moved into the home. Hugh died in 1991, and Suma in 1995. Their daughter, Virginia Hale Helfrich, then sold the property to Ed and Pat Finch.
The Finch's undertook a nine-month process of restoration with 98 percent of the work and craftsmanship being performed by the local community. The restoration was a "labor of love" for the couple and the beautiful home received the 1996 White County Historical Society "Heritage House" Award. Ed Finch passed away in May of 2005.
The Finch's "labor of love" may now be enjoyed by the community as well as visitors to this historical area. We, the current owners, purchased the home in May of 2010 and named it The Social House, reflective of our purpose for the home. To provide overnight accommodations, as well as a venue for group events, we pride ourselves on taking excellent care of our guests, making them feel right at home from the moment of arrival.
History provided by The Carmi Times from Nov 5, 1996
