A historic mansion in the US is free to take - if you can afford the hefty moving cost
A historic mansion in the US is free to take - if you can afford the hefty moving cost
The historic Hood Mansion in Pennsylvania, US, is being given away for free – but there is a catch. Potential new owners should be prepared for an extraordinary financial commitment: the mansion must be relocated entirely, a task estimated to cost between $700,000 and $1 million.
Tyler Schumacher, president and founder of the Eastern Pennsylvania Preservation Society, emphasised the need for a well-funded buyer who appreciates historical preservation. "The ideal candidate would have large, deep pockets and have an appreciation for preservation," Schumacher explained. "We’re looking at probably around $700,000 to a million [dollars] to move the home, depending on the distance travelled."
Built in 1834 by John McClellan Hood as a summer retreat, the Hood Mansion is an architectural marvel. "You’re not going to find a house better constructed than this one, and you’re not going to find another house that has as much rich history as this home does," Schumacher pointed out.
The mansion’s historical significance includes a claim that it was a stop on the Underground Railroad and a monument in its backyard dedicated to Washington Hood, John Hood's son and a notable figure who mapped the Oregon Territory.
The mansion remained in the Hood family until the late 1980s when it was auctioned off. Subsequent owners had grand plans, including a country club and a casino, but none came to fruition. The property has been abandoned since 2008, falling victim to vandalism and neglect.
Despite its structural soundness, the mansion requires significant cosmetic repairs. "You’ll walk through, and you’ll notice that there are hardly any cracks in the plaster. The walls are smooth. It’s like it was just built yesterday," Schumacher said. However, he added, "Pretty much every window in the house is broken. Some doors are missing. The banister is missing."
The current owner, planning to build a warehouse complex on the 113-acre site, has agreed to give away the mansion on the condition that it is relocated. "We sprang into action to try to save the home," Schumacher recounted. His preservation society has been working to find a buyer who can undertake the monumental task of moving and restoring the mansion.
The restoration of the mansion post-move is estimated to cost around $500,000. Despite the daunting financial requirements, there has been interest from several parties. Interested people are encouraged to contact the preservation society to discuss further steps.
Schumacher remains hopeful about the future of the Hood Mansion. "I felt as though somebody needs to tell the story of the Hood family and tell the story about this house and why it was constructed," he said. "Somebody needed to bring attention to this home."
While the offer of a free mansion is enticing, it comes with a hefty price tag. For the right person, the opportunity to preserve a piece of history may be worth every penny.