Col. William T. and Elizabeth C. Shaw House

Nestled in a wooded area in the southern side of Anamosa is the historic 1872 Col. William T. and Elizabeth C. Shaw House. It is significant for its architecture and association with Col. William T. Shaw, who was a prominent local and state figure during the second half of the 19th century. He played a large role in Anamosa's development and served as the city's first mayor. He also served as a state representative. Architecturally, the house is a fine example of Italianate architecture. It features elaborate window hoods, paired brackets under the eaves, tall and circular windows, a wide friezeboard with rectangular attic windows and decorative panels, and a tall tower. The house remains a private residence. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Col. Shaw arrived in Anamosa in 1854 and wed Elizabeth shortly thereafter. He bought various parcels of land, some of which eventually became part of Main Street. He also worked as a building contractor and helped erect the Fisher House Hotel, which was one of the first major buildings in the city. In the coming years Shaw constructed several other buildings in Anamosa. He also helped bring two railroads to Anamosa—the Dubuque & Southwestern Railroad and the Midland Railroad.

During the Civil War, he served as a colonel in the 14th Iowa Volunteer infantry and fought in a number of battles including Fort Donelson, Shiloh, and Pleasant Hill. Despite serving with distinction, he was known for his temper and bluntness. He criticized three Union generals and was dishonorably discharged. However, his record was eventually cleared.

After the war, Shaw resumed his role as a community leader in Anamosa. He continued to construct buildings including a foundry and machine shop. He became involved with banks, serving as a senior member of the Shaw and Schoonover Bnak. He served as president of the Strawberry Hill Independent School District and was a member of the school board. Shaw was a successful farmer as well.

Shaw married three times and had one daughter, Helen Louise, with his first wife who died in 1867. His second wife, Retta, and their baby son died in 1868. In 1879, Shaw wed Elizabeth who was a widow with two children. Elizabeth was also prominent community member. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church, the Ladies Missionary Society, and the Daughters of the American Revolution. She lived the rest of her life in the house.

After Shaw died in 1909, Helen Louise inherited the house and owned it it until she passed away in 1932. She did not always live in the house as she traveled often during these years and was, in fact, living in Italy at the time of her death. The house has remained a private property.

Rogers, Leah D. "Shaw, Colonel William T. and Elizabeth C., House." National Park Service - National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form. November 27, 1992.