Adventuring ~ Squire's Castle

Recently, we had an interesting adventure.  Our destination?

The North Chagrin Reservation of the Cleveland Metroparks in Willoughby Hills -- and Squire's Castle. Meant "only" as a gatehouse, Squire's Castle was built in the 1890's by Cleveland oil pioneer Feargus B. Squire.  His intention was to live in the gatehouse while plans were made to build a large country home behind it.  However, the estate was never completed, and the gatehouse was abandoned.

Why, you ask?

Well, there are all kinds of angles on the story.  Most of them urban legend.  I poked around on the internet, and found enough versions of the story to make your head spin.

Some stories tell of Mrs. Squire dying an untimely death in this very house.

Consequently, there are also reports that a woman has been seen

in the upstairs window at night

-- sometimes holding a lantern, as apparently was Mrs. Squire's custom.

Oh, now - don't think I've gone all wacko.

There is nothing sinister about this place, and I don't subscribe to such things anyway.

I just tripped over all of this information as I was trying to find directions to the place.

Some people might say: "TMI!"

(too much information) 

In it's day, Squire's Castle was apparently quite elegant!  It's design was similar to English castles, as Squire was of English heritage.  The "castle" had several bedrooms, living areas, a large kitchen, and a breakfast porch.  The rooms had plaster walls, elegant carved woodwork, and leaded glass windows.  One of the most beautiful rooms was Squire's library or "hunting room."  It was filled with books, trophy cabinets, stuffed animal specimens, and paintings.  Now, the whole house is just a shell -- and open to the elements.

I'm not a real history buff by any means,

but I do love hearing the history of a place

-- even if it's not all 100% true.

For more information, all you have to do is Google "Squire's Castle."  There are also a lot of great images on Google.  (Looks like the area is beautiful in the fall!)  I found a lot of information HERE.