One of at least 15 octagon homes built in Calhoun County, this one on 16 1/2-mile Road. The homes were inspired by Orson Squire Fowler, author of "A Home for All; or the Gravel Wall and Octagon Mode of Building," first published in 1848. Fowler lectured at least twice in the area — in 1850 and again in 1856, according to a report in the July 8, 1979, edition of the Enquirer and News. Fowler argued that because the octagon was nearly round, it was closer to a form of nature than the rectangle or the square, therefore more aesthetic. And because of the circle encompasses 20 percent more area for its exterior surface, he claimed that the octagon was more economical to build.