Wyndhurst daybook, 1899-1917

Historical/Biographical Note

Historical/Biographical Note

Wyndhurst refers to an estate that was once located in Springfield, Massachusetts. Built in 1863 by prominent New York architect Calvert Vaux, the estate was commissioned by businessman George E. Howard. Wyndhurst was built in Queen Anne style, a popular Victorian style of architecture in America. Howard also had the grounds landscaped by prominent landscape architect Frederick Law Olmstead. The house was located in the historic Crescent Hill District, specifically on the bluff which to the northeast of downtown Springfield that provides scenic views of the Connecticut River and Connecticut River Valley. The district is known for its various historic mansions, such as Wyndhurst when it was still standing.

The house was purchased in 1887 by Edward Spaulding Brewer. It was then purchased by H. Curtis Rowley in 1893. He lived at Wyndhurst with his wife, Thirza Merriam Rowley, and their two children, Harold Marriam and Arthur Merriam Rowley. It was during their tenure at the house that Wyndhurst earned its name, although the name's exact origins are unknown. Wyndhurst was a popular site to visit for friends and family of the Rowley's. Perhaps their most prestigious guests were then-president William McKinley and his wife Ida.

Wyndhurst was sold sometime during the late 1910s to businessman Alfred H. Chapin and ultimately torn down to build an even grander house. The only remaining original structure of Wyndhurst is the carriage house. Today, the site of Wyndhurst and surrounding mansions has been turned into luxury condominiums. The carriage house was restored by the developers and is used as a model home for the condominium complex.