817 Triphammer Road

Erma Cicchetti (1903-1961) was an accomplished amateur designer and project manager who oversaw the construction of approximately thirty-five Cayuga Heights homes over a period of twenty years, beginning in 1940.

The residence at 817 Triphammer Road is one of the first homes designed by Cicchetti, dating to 1940. It’s an eclectic style with a generous floor plan. Many of her homes are characterized as “elegant and solidly constructed.” Several other examples of her design prowess can be seen at 819, 902, 903, 904, and 905 Triphammer Road.

Cicchetti had a natural ability despite not having formal training. During her time, this was a remarkable accomplishment in what is still considered a male-dominated profession. She oversaw the work of contractors, masons, plumbers, and general laborers. She was regarded as a generous but demanding supervisor.

Cicchetti’s family emigrated from Terracina, Italy near the turn of the nineteenth century. Her family members found work in major companies in Ithaca, such as Ithaca Gun Company and Morse Chain Factory.

For more information about Erma Cicchetti and Cayuga Heights, please visit the Cayuga Heights History Project.

Source: Historic Ithaca & Cayuga Heights History Project

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