Above photo by Paul V Photography
By Jacqueline G. Goodwin, Ed.D.
When Dr. Robert Myers first set eyes on the property that would eventually become Linwood Estate, he told his wife, Christine, “I have to buy it because I have to share it with the world.”
For years, the property had belonged to Linwood B. Phillips, known as “L.B.” In fact, during the depression, Dr. Myers’ grandfather and L.B. would many times sit and talk about land deals, real estate and other topics in L.B.’s mansion, now part of Linwood Estate.
“They were good friends,” says Dr. Myers. “My grandfather would sit on the sofa and L.B. would sit in his chair, a large fire in the the backgound.”
L.B. died in 2006, and in December 2013, his estate and property came up at auction.
“We jumped at the chance to purchase the mansion, buildings, and acreage,” says Christine Myers. “While we didn’t know at first what we were going to do with all it, we eventually realized it would make a perfect wedding venue.”
Christine says she immediately enlisted her friend Lori Diminick, an interior designer who owns Artisitc Interiors by Lori, to help with the renovation and design, and in nine months the project was complete.
“In August 2014, we opened to the public,” says Christine. “During this time, Lori and I worked together to perserve many of the manion’s original features and changed those that needed updated. We decided what furniture stayed and we bought new pieces that complimented the original. Our renovations keep the integrity of L.B.’s mansion,” says Christine, adding, “L.B. loved cherry wood so we kept that aspect of the mansion intact.
“And when we were done, Lori and I had refurbished 19 rooms in four different buildings. We were ready to introduce Linwood Estate to the public and make it a part of the community.”
Linwood Mansion
Built in 1870 by L.B. Phillips, the grandeur of Linwood Mansion begins on the first floor where the Phillips family once roamed, and of which, retains the original hadwood floors. A large fireplace provides an intimate setting and the French doors in the back room open onto an expansive veranda, the Blue Mountain Terrace, perfect for the classic cocktail party or a cozy ceremony with options to tent. The Mansion, with its iconic large white columns, is unparalleled in providing a variety of unique and engaging spaces to create the perfect wedding. It also hosts a bridal parlor, five overnight suites, and is the perfect location for a small ceremony and reception.
The Appalachian Ballroom
The refined, barn-inspired ballroom features a grand entrance way of reclaimed, handcrafted sliding barn doors, beautiful hard wood flooring, and floor to ceiling windows introducing natural light. The ballroom has a built-in wooden bar and a large attached overlook, providing a stunning backdrop to unparalleled views of the rollings hills admist a backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains. Dance the night away under the glow of elegant, crystal chandeliers, the perfect place for your special day.
Linwood Gardens and Labyrinth
Graced with Grecian-style sculptures and a Secret Garden-esque impression, this location hosts a small pond and waterfall hidden among the maze of flowers and foliage. The Gardens are a beautiful spot for a small ceremony, one of kind photos or an inviting place for your guests to wander.
The North Lawn
Located directly in front of the mansion’s grand entrance is the North Lawn. This pristine and perfectly manicured open area is a great location with so many options. Host cocktails under the large canopy of trees or tent the area to offer an exclusive garden view for your guests to enjoy.
Make our history part of your history
Linwood Estate – 93 Encks Mill Road, Carlisle, PA
(717) 319-9314 • www.linwoodestate.com