Built in 1867, this home is the oldest in the Converse Heights Historic District in Spartanburg, South Carolina. It served as the long-time home of educators Zephaniah (Z. L.) (1888-1977) and Nanaline (1900-1998) Madden. Z.L. Madden was a noted educator in Spartanburg. He taught at Freemont School for fifteen years. He then served as principal of Cleveland Junior High School. He retired in 1954. The Z. L. Madden Elementary School was named after him. He lived here until his death in 1977.
Nanaline Madden was a noted kindergarten teacher. The local newspaper, The Spartanburg Herald-Journal, frequently mentioned classes meeting in the home and taught by Mrs. Madden. According to a 1991 article, she taught 1,105 students in 29 years at home. She was an active member of various civil and social organizations in Spartanburg. She was named Woman of the Year by the Spartanburg Garden Club Council for the 1959-1960. Mrs. Madden lived in the home for many years after her husband’s death.