Located in the copper-rich suburb of Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, Lynnewood Hall stands as a majestic estate with opulent architecture and a rich history. This grand palace boasts a storied and regal past that has captured the interest of historians and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Lynnewood Hall was originally built by industrialist Peter A.B. Widener and his wife, Hannah Josephine as their family home in 1897. Designed by famous architect Horace Trumbauer, the estate was inspired by the Palace of Versailles and featured over 110 rooms including 55 bedrooms, multiple ballrooms, and a massive indoor swimming pool. The mansion was also home to a vast art collection, including some of the most famous works by artists like Rembrandt and Raphael.
After Hannah passed away in 1896, Widener commissioned Trumbauer to make extensive additions to the home, including a new wing that featured a grand ballroom to honor his late wife’s love for dance. The Widener family resided in Lynnewood Hall for several years, during which time they hosted lavish events and entertained notable guests like Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and William Taft.
Unfortunately, tragedy struck the Widener family when they lost their son, George, in the sinking of the Titanic in 1912. This led to the family’s decision to sell their expansive estate to legendary investor and railroad tycoon Richardson Dilworth in 1916, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Lynnewood Hall.
Dilworth made several modifications to the home, adding a bowling alley, a greenhouse, and an aviary, among other features. The estate remained in the Dilworth family until 1952 when it changed hands again. The new owner, Reverend Carl McIntire, saw the estate as a symbol of his American fundamentalist values and converted Lynnewood Hall into the headquarters of his ministry, the Bible Presbyterian Church.
Today, Lynnewood Hall still stands as one of the most treasured historic sites in Pennsylvania. While the estate has deteriorated somewhat over the years, its beauty and grandeur are still evident, and it remains a testament to the vision of its illustrious creators. There have been various attempts to restore the home in recent years, but none have come to fruition.
The story of Lynnewood Hall serves as a reminder of the lasting impact that architecture and history have on society. This magnificent estate is not just a physical structure but a link to a past that continues to inspire and amaze. Its storied and regal past will surely captivate generations to come.
Lynnewood Hall is more than just a mansion; it is a symbol of the progressive, ambitious, and opulent lifestyle of the early 20th century. Its stunning architecture and priceless art collection make it a magnificent testament to the vision of its creators, while its rich history offers insight into the colorful personalities and lifestyles of those who once resided within its walls. Despite its present state of decay, Lynnewood Hall remains a beloved and unique piece of American history.