The Hermitage

In 1865 George sold 10 acres to his daughter and her husband, Mr. And Mrs. Wright. They built their 18-room home on their new parcel of land.... more

by Barbara McMahon

Title

The Hermitage

Artist

Barbara McMahon

Medium

Photograph - Photography

Description

In 1865 George sold 10 acres to his daughter and her husband, Mr. And Mrs. Wright. They built their 18-room home on their new parcel of land.

It was only five years later that they sold their 10 acres and it wasn't until 1880 that the home became a hotel and summer spa that boasted the Mineral Springs. The springs healing effect was felt by all those that patronized the beautiful hotel.


Shortly after George and Alexander died in 1901, George's youngest daughter, Alma Dick-Lauder, bought the estate for $5,500. from the surviving family. By 1910 the hotel had been ravaged by two fires and the hotel was shut down. An era had ended but it was not over.
Alma lived and laughed, cried and loved there for many years but in 1934 during a party at the house they were once again victims to fire. The fire burned out of control and the house was left in ruins. Alma was 79 years old and she was not about to leave the house and home that she loved. She erected a tent beside the ruins and lived in it until they built her another home.
It was in 1942 that Alma died at the age of 87. It is possible that she remains at the home she loved so much.

Uploaded

October 3rd, 2012