Introduction to Cincinnati’s Historical Mansions
Cincinnati, OH, is known for its rich heritage and vibrant culture. Beyond its preservation of history, the city celebrates its past in various ways. Offering a glimpse into the lives of its residents many decades ago is one of them.
Read on to discover five historic Cincinnati mansions that add charm and value to the Queen City on the Ohio River.
1. Taft Museum of Art
This art museum is housed in one of the historic mansions in Cincinnati, where the older half-brother of President William Taft used to reside. The mansion is situated next to a park with a statue of a young and beardless Abraham Lincoln.
The Taft Museum of Art boasts an impressive private art collection most of which were from Medieval to the late 1900s, including one Rembrandt, which is part of a set of two. The other painting is owned by the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
The Taft Museum of Art was donated by the Taft family, complete with their collection of artworks, to the city in the 1930s. It was then extensively refurbished in the federal style.
- Address: 316 Pike St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
2. Peterloon Estate
Peterloon Estate was the home of Cincinnati developer and arts patron John J. Emery and his wife, Irene. Built in 1928, the mansion was designed by Architect William Adams Delano of Delano & Aldrich, the leading country-house architectural firm in the United States.
This historic home is a combination of Georgian and Queen Anne styles and is one of the biggest houses in Cincinnati. Originally sited on 1,200 wooded acres in Indian Hill, the estate has 36 rooms, 19 fireplaces, 21 baths, and a wing of guest rooms.
- Address: 8605 Hopewell Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45242
3. Hauck House Museum
The John Hauck House Museum is an Italianate mansion built in 1870. It has a remarkable facade of carved stone. Inside, the expansive rooms feature intricately painted ceilings, floors of parquet wood, marble mantels, and elaborate woodwork.
John Hauck was a German immigrant who rose to prominence in the area as one of Cincinnati’s famous brewers. The museum was established to promote an understanding of the life and customs in urban Cincinnati during the late 19th century.
- Address: 812 Dayton St, Cincinnati, OH 45214
4. Samuel Hannaford House
Samuel Hannaford House was built in 1865, thirteen years before the Cincinnati-based architect cemented his stellar reputation by designing and building Music Hall, one of the best-known landmarks in the city.
This modest Victorian home, which was constructed for his family, bears no resemblance to the typical sturdy and stately structures that Samuel Hannaford is known for. In fact, the only stones in this house are in its 151-year-old foundation.
The architecture of this preserved heritage property reflects the Romanesque Revival style popular in the late 19th century. It has dramatic gables, a handsome circular porch, and a central tower.
- Address: 768 Derby Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45232
5. Promont House Museum
A majestic Victorian mansion built in 1865, the Promont House Museum is rich in history and architectural beauty. It was once the residence of John M. Pattison, the 43rd Governor of Ohio.
The mansion is renowned for its Italianate architectural style, characterized by a central hall with two connecting rooms on each side, consistent across its four floors. The Italianate influence is also shown in its window designs, wide eaves, and decorative quoins that embellish the corners of the house.
Today, Promont serves as a museum under the stewardship of the Greater Milford Area Historical Society. This Cincinnati museum showcases a vast array of period furnishings and hosts rotating exhibits that offer visitors a genuine glimpse into the past.
- Address: 906 Main St, Milford, OH 45150
The Importance of Preserving Historic Mansions
Preserving historic mansions is an essential part of recognizing and celebrating the past. It allows us to connect with the past through something tangible.
Older structures like the Betts House, the oldest house in Cincinnati, possess aesthetic value that contribute to the neighborhood’s unique charm and character.
More importantly, preservation helps the local economy by creating jobs in the short-term and a profitable structure in the long-term. Historic preservation involves various industries—construction, manufacturing, project management, landscaping, and design.
If you own a historic home in Cincinnati or are planning to buy one, here are some tips on how to maintain and protect its beauty and value:
- Schedule annual assessments by a professional architect or historic preservation specialist to detect any signs of damage, decay, or potential risks.
- Familiarize yourself with local historic preservation guidelines and adhere to them when making changes or renovations.
- Whenever possible, opt for restoration instead of replacement.
- Regularly clean and repaint the exterior surfaces of your home to protect it against weathering and fading.
- Implement pest control measures and conduct regular inspections to prevent significant damage.
Conclusion
Cincinnati is an amazing city that boasts a rich history, and these historic mansions offer a glimpse into its impressive past.
If you have any questions about the neighborhoods and homes in Cincinnati, OH, you may give me a call at 513-447-5858 or send me an email at mwalley@comey.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit the Taft Museum of Art?
Yes, the Taft Museum of Art is open to the public. Members can visit the museum for free, while non-members are required an admission free ranging $10-$15 per person. You can check out their rates here.
Are any of Cincinnati’s historic mansions open for private events?
Yes, some of these are Wiedemann Hill Mansion, Taft Museum of Art, Six Acres Bed & Breakfast, and The Gibson House.
How do I tour the Promont House Museum?
Public guided tours are on the first, third, and fifth Sundays of each month from 1 PM to 4 PM. The rate per person is $8. If you prefer a private tour, this can be scheduled by contacting them at (513) 248-0324. Rates range from $10-$15 per person.
