Preserving History in Pa: Mechanicsburg's Ashcombe Mansion

At a time when “development” often takes precedence over preservation, Deborah Myers Welsh is grateful to have been in the right place at the right time to save the historic Ashcombe mansion in Mechanicsburg.

A stunning house, built in 1892 and nestled on 22 acres, the Queen Anne Victorian boasts classic period details--steeply pitched roofs, a vibrant color scheme which helps one understand why Victorians were called “painted ladies,” large bay windows, a wraparound porch and a prominent round turret making it evocative of the Rapunzel fairytale.

“A developer was going to tear it down to make way for 50 homes,” said Myers Welsh.

How It All Began

The stately abode isn’t entirely unique in its origins in that it was built by someone who had some standing in the community. In this case, that would be the Honorable Henry G. Moser, iron manufacturer, legislator and county judge. Moser built it as a summer house for his beloved wife, Margaret Moser.

The home remained in the Moser family for 93 years until it began operating as a bed and breakfast in 1984. After the B&B business ceased operations, the mansion sat vacant for nearly eight years until Myers Welsh purchased the property saving it from the wrecking ball.

For Myers Welsh it’s been a passion project. “I am an attorney by trade, serving as in-house general counsel to healthcare companies, but when our daughter went off to college, I decided to take it on. I’ve always loved the hospitality business,” she said.

She began renovations in 2018 and completed them about a year later. “We added on the portico and circular porch, the hallway entrance and a sunroom, which was an old enclosed porch. We also installed a commercial kitchen, restrooms and a Sperry tent,” said Myers Welsh. For those unfamiliar with the term, a Sperry tent is a high-end handcrafted sailcloth tent known for its elegant and airy appearance. The 6,000 square-foot, custom-made tent is attached to the building. “It accommodates more than 300 guests and we think of it more as a ballroom. It has permanent heating and air conditioning and a black-and-white checkered floor,” explains Myers Welsh.

Five rooms in the mansion are available for rent, typically in conjunction with events like weddings.

The Willows at Ashcombe Mansion

Today, the mansion operates as an event venue known as “The Willows at Ashcombe Mansion.” The name “Ashcombe” means “grove of ashes,” a nod to the ash trees that stood on the property. Unfortunately, due to blight, many had to be removed. “We were able to save some and new tree plantings have already taken place, including the planting of several willow trees, hence the name,” said Myers Welsh.

Bringing In a Chef

Myers Welsh hired Harrisburg resident Anthony Bianco about a year ago to act as manager and executive chef. Bianco had previously worked at the Hilton. “We started out with a catering company and were a BYO facility, but now we handle everything in-house. It allows us to serve our patrons more efficiently when food is prepared onsite, which is how we set ourselves apart from other wedding venues,” said Myers Welsh.

More recently, The Willows at Ashcombe Mansion has opened its doors to the public for English-style teas on Sundays. A glimpse of the interior alone is worth the visit, with ornate ceiling medallions supporting glistening chandeliers, intricate woodwork, marble fireplaces, and thoughtfully curated furniture, including plush, elegant sofas—all a true feast for the eyes.

Bianco describes the fare served at the Sunday teas.  “A typical tea menu will include petit fours, scones and clotted cream with ingredients like pear butter, brie and apple, or smoked salmon mousse with salmon roe and chives,” said Bianco.

The public is also invited to dine at the mansion from Monday through Wednesday. “We put together a small plate menu with items like wagyu beef sliders with truffled goat cheese and pork-braised onions on grilled brioche and will soon will be switching to a spring menu,” said Bianco, adding that the porch will be open when warmer weather arrives.

Myers Welsh said that there’s much more to look forward to. “We’ll be starting a supper club that will take place around nine times a year with a fixed menu,” she said. As for additional announcements, Myers Welsh advises the public to keep an eye on social media for updates. “We’re looking forward to hosting more new and exciting events in the future,” she said.

The Willows at Ashcombe Mansion is located at 1100 W Grantham Rd, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055. Learn more by visiting the website at https://ashcombemansion.com/.

 

 

 

 

48 Hours in Pittsburgh: Making the Most of Every Moment

Located in Western Pennsylvania and situated at the confluence of the Monongahela, Allegheny and Ohio Rivers, the scenic city of Pittsburgh is basks in well-deserved accolades as a must-see destination.

Harper’s Bazaar named it one of the Best Places to Travel for its award-winning restaurants, vibrant arts and culture scene, and world-class accommodations.

Choosing from among the many attractions is the difficult part, but getting there is easy. Most destinations are located within 20 minutes of the downtown area. Less time commuting and more time enjoying is certainly a plus when schedules are tight during a short getaway.

Staying in the Heart of the Action

Omni William Penn

First-time guests of the Omni William Penn Hotel are often mesmerized by the beauty of the opulent lobby, with its crystal chandeliers, oversized archways, and a floor that mingles marble from seven different countries. Built by Pittsburgh industrialist Henry Clay Frick and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the hotel dates back to 1916 and still exudes much of that old-world charm. The icing on the cake is that it’s conveniently located within a short drive of many destinations.

There are a number of activities to enjoy while staying at the Omni, from kayaking, to biking, to touring and dining at any of the restaurants perched atop the Duquesne Incline. No visit is complete without a trip to Grandview Avenue’s Mount Washingtons' Restaurant Row, where diners are treated to spectacular views of downtown, especially as the sun sets.

The Omni also provides guests with its own dining options, from the elegantly appointed and upscale Terrace Room, with its original molded plaster ceiling and mahogany arches and creative American cuisine, to the more casual Taproom. Once deemed “The Continental,” the Taproom dates back to 1934 and is one of two “Repealatoriums” that opened in the hotel after Prohibition ended.

Tucked away beneath the stairs of the grand lobby is another celebratory toast to the end of Prohibition. The Speakeasy, named among the 12 Most Essential Bars by Thrillist, with its cozy ambiance and plush red-velvet décor is a welcome respite for guests seeking a place to relax with their favorite libation.  

Taking a Tour

Pittsburgh is all about choices and finding a tour tailored to one’s interests is as easy as consulting a concierge, or AI these days.

The one-hour Gateway Clipper tour traverses the three rivers and treats visitors to a beautiful view of the city, while providing them a unique glimpse into Pittsburgh’s past and future via onboard narrators. It’s a 15-minute walk from the hotel and an interesting way to view the architecture of the city and our bridges.

For the foodie, there’s “Burgh Bits and Bites," which takes guests on a walking tour to their choice of several different neighborhoods, including Pittsburgh’s acclaimed Strip District. The excursion convenes in Old St. Patrick’s Church courtyard. Sylvia McCoy, tour founder, offers guests a “behind-the-counter” peek at a variety of eateries in Pittsburgh’s market district. “The Strip District features an array of cuisines, from Asian, to Polish, Greek, Italian, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, all on one street,” she says.

And no trip to Pittsburgh is complete without a ride on the famous Duquesne Incline, which is a historic funicular railway located at 1197 W. Carson Street.  The Incline was designed by Samuel Diesher, a Hungarian-American civil engineer based in Pittsburgh and was completed in 1877 It offers scenic views of the city and its three rivers, including the Allegheny, Ohio and Monongahela.  

An Insider Tip: Exit the incline, turn to the right and head up the hill to view the spectacular “Point of View” sculpture, which features George Washington and the Seneca leader Guyasuta. It conveys what their face-to-face meeting may have been like in 1770 while Washington was in the area examining land for future settlement along the Ohio River. The two-minute walk from the Incline is worth it for the unobstructed view of the skyline alone.

George Washington and Seneca Leader Guy Asuta.

Nature, History and Art Abound in Oakland

One can spend an entire day in Oakland soaking in the exhibits at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Carnegie Museum of Art and the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. All are conveniently located within walking distance of each other, making it easy to mix and match as time permits.

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Phipps dates back to 1893 and is often described as one of Pittsburgh’s “crown jewels.” Visitors are often in awe of the striking botanical displays, many of which change throughout the year. Phipps Conservatory is also one of those places you can visit multiple times each year for their seasonal flower shows.

Phipps also has the distinction of being LEED™ platinum certified. Designed to be the greenest building in the world, Phipps generates all of its own energy and treats storm and sanitary water on site.

The Children’s Discovery Garden is a big hit with the kids and is designed to attract birds, butterflies, and bees. It also includes a bog garden, a sensory garden, and outdoor spaces to entertain and enlighten the youngsters.

Allocate approximately 90 minutes to tour the indoor and outdoor gardens, which feature stunning displays of plants ranging from palm trees, to orchids, bonsai and cacti, to name just a few.

Insider Tip: To avoid crowds, plan to visit on a Monday or Tuesday.

Carnegie Museum of Art

It’s easy to spend hours roaming the halls of the Carnegie Museum of Art (CMOA), so if this destination is at the top of your list, you may wish to get an early start by visiting when doors open at 10 a.m.

The impressive collection exists courtesy of Andrew Carnegie, a wealthy industrialist/philanthropist and proud Pittsburgher who envisioned opening up the art world to all segments of society.

The 110,570-foot space is comprised of 33 galleries which feature approximately 1,800 works of art at any given time.  Painting and sculpture, prints and drawings, photographs, architectural casts and film and video are all represented under one roof, ensuring that the museum offers something for every taste.

Artists run the gamut from Van Gogh, to Matisse, Picasso, Warhol and more.

A unique exhibit featuring a piece of furniture that is universally pressed into service is the chair collection, which celebrates the diversity of chair design from the 17^th Century to the present.

Also notable is the cast of the West Portal of Saint-Gilles-du-Gard located in the Hall of Architecture. Paid for by Andrew Carnegie at the recommendation of art experts, it is said to be the largest architectural cast ever made.

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History

Adjacent to the CMOA is the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, also founded by Andrew Carnegie. Ranked among the top five natural history museums in the United States, it boasts a collection of 22 million specimens, 10,000 of which are on view at any given time.

The family friendly destination features an array of dinosaurs and mammals, fossils, mummies and more, which are sure to intrigue guests of all ages.

Don’t miss the Hall of Gems for a dizzying array of rocks and minerals.

Insider Tip: The price of admission to both museums is reduced to half off after 3 p.m. on weekdays.

These are just a few of the many options available in a city where choices abound and making the most of every moment is limited only by the imagination of the visitor.

Photo Credits:

Gateway Clipper (with picture of bridge) Courtesy: Gateway Clipper/Visit Pittsburgh

Omni William Penn, Courtesy: Omni Hotels and Resorts

Duquesne Incline: Credit: Richard Nowitz

Bologna, Breweries, History and More in Lebanon County Pa

When planning a vacation the weather warms, it’s easy to dream of far-off destinations. But sometimes there are interesting experiences located less than a tank of gas away. Such was the case recently when I took a trip to Lebanon County and was surprised to uncover a wealth of attractions that were entirely new to me.

Walking Tours

Most all of us are familiar with Seltzers Lebanon Bologna, but did you know that you can tour their facilities located on Railroad Street in Palmyra? Guests can begin their experience at the outlet store where Lebanon bologna is sold in every iteration, from hot or sweet jerky bites, to pre-sliced packets and the newest product, double-smoked slices. If there’s a bologna lover on your list, there are gift boxes available as well.

After visiting the shop, guests will move to a second building to view a short film where they will learn about the story of Harry Seltzer, an entrepreneurial German immigrant who founded the business in 1902.

The tour continues with a visit to a small museum of company artifacts, followed by a walk to the rear smokehouses located in a narrow alley where employees produce an impressive 100,000 pounds of bologna a week.

Smokehouses are located in a small alley in a residential location.

Lebanon bologna being manufactured.

Fun fact: 750,000 end pieces are donated weekly to local charities.

Another walking tour takes place at the Cornwall Iron Furnace where guests learn about the only surviving intact charcoal cold-blast furnace in the Western Hemisphere. The 45-minute tour of the complex offers a glimpse into the iron industry’s role in American history where iron was produced to make everything from household tools, to Revolutionary War cannons. During the tour guests will also learn about the people who played a part in the industry.

Visitors take photos of the large furnace that consumed an acre of trees a day.

Fun Fact: The furnace consumed an acre of trees a day to fuel its operations.

History lovers also enjoy yet another tour--this time at the Lebanon County Historical Society located on 924 Cumberland Street. The three-story museum is packed with local artifacts like an antique printing press, old organs, a selection of elaborately decorated fire engine hose carts, vintage photos of Haak’s Department store once located in downtown Lebanon and so much more.

Antique fire engine hose cart.

A school house inside the historical society.

Fun fact: On display is an iron cradle from Cornwall (of course). It was made for Margaret Coleman Buckingham who was the last owner of the Cornwall Mansion. Beneath the cradle is a compartment for a heated stone to be placed, which radiated heat to keep the baby warm.

An iron cradle has an area for a heated stone to keep the baby warm.

Axes, Forges and Mead, Oh My!

Who says malls aren’t happening? At the Lebanon Valley Mall you’ll find The Drunken Smithy where you can take on the role of blacksmith. The forge area spans approximately 2,500 square feet and provides all the tools necessary for customers to create their own metal projects under the guidance of skilled blacksmiths. Tools like hammers, tongs, anvils, power hammers and hydraulic presses are all available for customers to bring their projects to completion.

My husband (left) takes direction from one of the owners of The Drunken Smithy.

Outside of the forge area are stalls where customers can try their hand at hitting a target with an ax, before retiring to a picnic table to enjoy hand-crafted mead, ciders and other beverages.

Fun Fact: One of the owners formerly worked at the Renaissance Faire and is planning a Viking Mead Fest to take place this summer. Slated for the end of July, it will feature street performers, scavenger hunts, venders and more.

Take In Nature's Beauty

Up to 200,000 snow geese stop at The Middle Creek Wildlife Management area every spring.(Photo taken by Melody Mellinger)

                                              

Nature lovers will enjoy The Middle Creek WildlifeManagement Area located at 100 Museum Road in Stevens. The sanctuary for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts is a prime area to view birds, ducks, dragonflies, butterflies and more. A wall of windows inside the visitor’s center enables guests to view the action from a seat which comes equipped with its own set of binoculars.

Fun Fact: Up to 200,000 snow geese stop here in the spring on their migratory pattern heading north to the Arctic breeding grounds.

Behold the Beauty of St. Luke’s

St. Luke's Episcopal Church

One of Lebanon’s most stunning landmarks is the St. Luke’s Episcopal Church at 22 S. 6th Street. The walls of the church are made of native bluestone from the Carmany Quarry in South Lebanon and red sandstone from quarries in Schaefferstown and Cornwall. The great tower rises to 85 feet above the pavement. A turret on the east rises an additional 17 feet, making it the highest point in the city of Lebanon. Construction on the church began in 1879 and services are still held today.

Fun Fact: Eight red sandstone gargoyles extend four feet from the building and act as spouts directing water away from the structure.

Fans of history, nature, architectural beauty and hands-on adventures will more than likely enjoy a getaway to this special area. For me it signifies that sometimes the most interesting and enriching activities are often found in my own backyard.