The Story of Gage Mansion

One of the special things about historic properties, something that resonates throughout the world, is the age old question of “What is this buildings “story”?”  Fortunately, we know quite a bit about the history of the Gage Mansion, and we love to share its story up to this point. 

In 1873, at the age of 46, Colonel George F. Gage moved to Huntingdon with his father and wife along with three children to be the General Manager for the failing Huntingdon and Broad Top Railroad.  Colonel Gage’s gregarious management style (often called “energetic and thorough”) is credited for saving the railroad from bankruptcy. 

In 1896, Colonel Gage purchased the land currently occupied by the Gage Mansion for $4,000.  Coincidentally, the property originally supported a log cabin that housed a hotel at one point.  Gage commissioned architect George F Barber from Knoxville, TN to design a Queen Anne Victorian mansion for his family.  For Gage Mansion, ceramic tile was imported from Italy and Huntingdon local artist, Ann Dorris Chisolm designed 13 stained glass windows for the home.  Gage’s claim as a status symbol; however, was ultimately due to his purchase of one of the first telephones in town.  Gage was a very tall man, so the original claw foot bathtub located in the second floor bath was specially designed and made to accommodate him.  There are several different kinds of wood in the house: cherry, oak, maple and chestnut….the different types of wood and mantle designs really set the tone for each room.   Six fireplaces occupy various spaces throughout the home and all but one are still operational.  The sconces and chandelier have irreplaceable Austrian blown glass and the votive candles were originally gas operated.  The wood, glass and marble details throughout the home are a delightful way to experience a time gone by.  The home was completed in 1897 after a whopping $124,000 (approximately $3 million today).