Abandoned Mansions in Ohio
Ohio is a state of many wonders in terms of its architecture. From the old-fashioned, rustic homesteads that dot the countryside to the towering buildings of its major cities, this Midwestern state offers something for everyone. But there are some hidden gems that you may have overlooked — abandoned mansions throughout Ohio. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of these forgotten homes, their stories, and their potential for renewal. So come along with us on a journey through Ohio’s neglected past — take a peek into the lives of those who left these stately homes behind.
The history of abandoned mansions in Ohio
There are many abandoned mansions in Ohio. Some of these mansions were once beautiful homes, but they have been left to decay. There are many reasons why these mansions were abandoned, but one thing is certain: they are all fascinating places to explore.
Some of the most well-known abandoned mansions in Ohio include the General Motors Mansions, the Cleveland Clinic Mansions, and the Baker Mansion. The General Motors Mansions were built in the early 1900s for executives of the company. The Cleveland Clinic Mansions were built in the late 1800s for doctors working at the nearby hospital. The Baker Mansion was built in the early 1800s and was home to a wealthy family.
All of these mansions are now abandoned and have been for many years. They are all interesting places to explore, and each has its own unique history.
Read: 1980s Abandoned Glass Mansion Leesburg, Virginia
The Markey Mansion
The Markey Mansion is a historic Queen Anne-style home located in the city of Eugene, Oregon. Built in 1864, it is one of the oldest homes in the city and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. The house is owned by Lane Community College and serves as an event venue for business meetings, weddings, and other special events.
The mansion was built by Eugene Markey, a prominent local businessman who came to Oregon in 1879. He quickly established himself as a successful entrepreneur and investor within the community. In 1889 he purchased the lot at 690 W 11th Ave, where he built his dream home; to this day it stands as a reminder of his success.
The two-story Victorian home features seven large bedrooms with original woodwork, intricate detailing, and period fixtures throughout. The front porch is adorned with detailed columns that are representative of the era. On the exterior of the house, there are three gables with decorative finials and ornamental trim along each side. The grounds also feature a large circular driveway leading up to the main entrance that adds to its overall grandeur.
In addition to its use as an event venue, The Markey Mansion also serves as a teaching tool for Lane Community College students. Students from the college’s historic preservation program have had the opportunity to study and restore the mansion, ensuring it will remain a part of Eugene’s history for years to come.
Cleveland’s Scofield mansion
Cleveland’s Scofield mansion is a historic mansion located in Cleveland, Ohio. It was built in 1898 by Charles F. Scofield, a noted manufacturer of paper boxes and stationery. The building is an example of Queen Anne style architecture. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 and currently serves as the home of the Cleveland Law Library Association.
The building is a two-story brick structure with a steeply pitched cross-gabled roof. It has projecting gables and a wraparound porch. The interior features woodwork and stained glass windows. The property also includes the original carriage house and stable.
The Scofield mansion was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 for its architectural significance.
Abandoned home in Geneva, Ohio
Geneva, Ohio is a city located in Ashtabula County in Northeast Ohio. The city has had a long history of home abandonment due to various factors such as economic depression, urban sprawl, and natural disasters. The majority of abandoned homes in Geneva are older single-family properties that were built prior to the mid-20th century. The city’s population peaked at around 5,000 residents in 1960 and has since been steadily declining due to economic hardship.
The most notable abandoned homes in Geneva include the former Geneva Home for the Aged, which was founded in 1894 and closed down in 2005; the old Amish schoolhouse on North Street; and numerous other historic buildings scattered throughout the city. There are also numerous vacant lots with crumbling foundations that have once housed homes.
Due to the deteriorating condition of many of these properties, the City of Geneva has passed ordinances to demolish or preserve certain structures depending on their condition. Preservation efforts have been undertaken by several local organizations such as Historic Ashtabula Harbor Inc., which works to protect and preserve historic properties within the county.
Why these mansions were abandoned
The reasons why these mansions were abandoned are varied and complicated. In some cases, the owners simply died without heirs to take over the property. In other cases, the owners fell on hard times and could no longer afford to maintain the property. And in still other cases, the properties were simply left to rot after being foreclosed upon. No matter the reason, these mansions now sit empty and neglected, their former glory a distant memory.
What the mansions look like now
The mansions are now in a state of disrepair, with broken windows, boarded up doors, and overgrown gardens. They are a far cry from the grandiose homes they once were.
The stories of the people who used to live in these mansions
The stories of the people who used to live in these mansions are as varied as the mansions themselves. Some were built by wealthy industrialists who made their fortunes in the early days of Ohio’s history. Others were built by families who had been in the area for generations. Many of the mansions were abandoned after the stock market crash of 1929 and the Great Depression that followed. Some were left empty because their owners could no longer afford to maintain them. Others were sold to developers who tore them down to make way for new construction. Today, all that remains of these once-grand homes are ruins and memories.
Conclusion
Abandoned mansions in Ohio make for some of the most interesting and unique places to explore. From their history to the stories that can be told while walking through them, they offer a great sense of mystery and wonder. If you’re looking for something different from the typical tourist destinations, then these abandoned mansions may just be what you need to satisfy your curiosity. Who knows, maybe even a ghost or two will make an appearance when visiting one of these magnificent locations!
