Division Street

In the 1860's there were two physicians on the Island, a Dr. Bellamy and a "Miss Dr. Jane Spaulding." However, the former left the Island c. 1868, "finding 'calls' too infrequent." Before their arrival, local residents performed such medical/surgical services as were necessary on each other and visiting physicians from off the Island made sporadic calls. Even with Dr. Spaulding's arrival, some residents did not trust a woman doctor. Still, she was considered an Island asset and was persuaded to stay until 1874 by annual special collections taken up by the fishermen. She was replaced by another woman doctor, who stayed until 1877. By that time, the population had reached the point where physicians could make a decent living on the Island.

Among those was George Fann, who built this spacious and impressive house in 1895 to serve both as his residence and office, with special entrances on the north side for his patients. Since c. 1928, it has served as a residence for the Matso family. The exterior remains virtually unchanged and, with few alterations, the interior retains its original character. 

   
From Kelleys Island, A Tour Guide