G. Thomas was a trader living in Kobe when he arraged construction of
the weathercock House. The House is unique among Ijinkan (foreign houses)
in the Kitano Yamamoto region for its brick outer wall. It differs from
the other Ijinkan houses in its grand appearance with its bright colored
brick walls, heaped stone porch, and the half timber (wood frame ) on the
second floor. The weathercock on the spire is well known throughout the
Kitano region.
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The metal rooster does more the indicate the wind direction, it also wards off evil spirits, and promotes Christian doctrine with its advacation of caution and respect of nature.

The former Thomas' House has an entrance hall, parlor living room,dining
room, and study on the first floor,and a bedroom for the couple, nursery,
guest room and a breakfast room on the second floor.
Although the design of each room is unique, the house as a whole is influenced
by German traditionalism, while reflecting the Art Nouveau movement of
the late 19th century and early 20the century.
On the first floor visitors will see the Art Nouveau metallic knobs on
each entrance door, as well as the ornamentation at the top of the pillars
on the porch, the chandelier-adorned living room and a caricature of the
baseboard in the study reflect the period as well.
Evoking a medieval castle theme are the wood beams on the celing, and
the ornate sideboard and fireplace ornamentation tha are themselves worth
the visit.
Prominent early 20th century German architect G.de Lalande designed the Thomas House along with other famous works in Japna.
From December 1983 to March 1985, an extensive restoration returned the
house to near its original condition.