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Stan Hywet Hall Is Ohio’s Answer To Stunning English Country Manors

Ready for your next adventure? Why not head up to Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, a hidden gem in Akron, Ohio, that transports you back to the early 20th century with its grandeur and charm. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or someone who loves exploring beautifully manicured gardens, Stan Hywet offers a captivating experience for all.

A Glimpse into the Past

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Stan Hywet Hall, built between 1912 and 1915, was the brainchild of Frank A. Seiberling, the co-founder of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, and his wife, Gertrude. They wanted a home that reflected their love for English country manors. The name “Stan Hywet” is Old English for “stone quarry,” a nod to the property’s original use and its impressive stone features.

The couple took inspiration from their travels, specifically from three English estates: Compton Wynyates, Ockwells Manor, and Haddon Hall. Architect Charles Sumner Schneider, along with landscape architect Warren Manning, turned their dreams into reality.

Architectural Marvel

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Stan Hywet Hall’s architecture is a stunning mix of styles, predominantly Tudor Revival. This 65-room mansion sprawls across 64,500 square feet, featuring red brick walls, stone trim, steeply pitched roofs, and ornate chimneys. The design intentionally mimics the look of a home that evolved over centuries, with asymmetrical elements and varied rooflines.

Inside, each room has a unique historical flair. You’ll find Gothic, Tudor, Jacobean, and Georgian influences, among others. The Great Hall, for instance, boasts late Gothic design, while the Music Room shines with 17th-century English elegance. This room houses a nine-foot Steinway concert piano, a harpsichord, and an Aeolian organ, making it the grandest space in the mansion.

Gardens Galore

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The estate’s gardens are just as impressive as the mansion itself. Warren Manning designed the original landscape to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The property includes a variety of themed gardens, like the English Garden, Japanese Garden, and the Breakfast Room Garden, each offering a unique visual treat. Manning’s clever use of native plants and strategic vistas creates a serene yet dynamic environment.

One standout feature is the Japanese Garden, completed in 1916 by Chicago-based Japanese landscape artist T.R. Otsuka. This garden adds an exotic touch with its peaceful layout and intricate plantings.

Fun Facts

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  • High-Tech for Its Time: Despite its historical appearance, Stan Hywet was quite modern. It had central heating, a central vacuum system, three elevators, and a 37-station telephone system back when such amenities were rare.
  • Recreation Central: The Seiberlings loved entertaining. The estate included tennis courts, a roque court, horse trails, a four-hole golf course, swimming lagoons, and even an indoor swimming pool and gymnasium.
  • Community Spirit: The Seiberlings were generous hosts. They often opened their home to the community, hosting events and gatherings. This tradition continues today as the estate is a popular venue for weddings, corporate events, and public tours.
  • Preservation Efforts

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    In 1957, the Seiberling children donated Stan Hywet to a non-profit organization to ensure its preservation. The estate is now a museum and historic landmark, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century luxury and design. Extensive restorations have kept the property in pristine condition, allowing visitors to enjoy its beauty and history year-round.

    For more info, head over to stanhywet.org.