One of the original purposes of the Washington Chamber of Commerce annual tour of homes was to highlight the historic qualities of local residences. The chamber has offered a bit of a preview of a couple of the houses.

Linda Soukup lives on the Washington Boulevard, her home was built in 1868 by Howard Burrell, who was the editor of the Washington Press Newspaper.  Soukup spent 12 years renovating the house after purchasing it in 1990.

Another house on the tour is that of Joe and Jane Evanovich, who live on west second street.  Their large Victorian-style home was built in 1896.  Original stained-glass windows remain in good condition.  A lengthy renovation process restored woodworking and two fireplaces.

Also on the tour are Ed and Ericka Raber, Trent and Teresa Whisler, and Brian and Kim Coleman.  The tour is tomorrow and Sunday night. Tickets are available at a number of Washington businesses and the chamber office. The proceeds from the tour help maintain the lights that line the buildings in downtown Washington.