The Conrad-Caldwell House is a Victorian mansion representing the period in the late 1800s when Louisville, Kentucky, earned its reputation as a city of beautiful homes. It has been lovingly restored to its condition during the Edwardian Age. Take your time at this landmark to learn what it was like to be a part of the town’s high society over a century ago.
Originally called Conrad’s Castle upon completion in 1895, the mansion was equipped with very modern conveniences that included interior plumbing and electric lighting. Look at the magnificent parquet floors and exquisite woodwork that used seven different types of hardwood in different areas of the house. The limestone exterior with its gargoyles, archways and stone reveals its opulent past.
The Richardson Romanesque mansion was designed by renowned Louisville architect Arthur Loomis. The first owner Theophile Conrad grew up in France and enjoyed the wealth his family had accumulated from their ventures in the glue manufacturing business. Theophile became a master tanner and moved to America where he helped start a tannery that he later solely owned. Imagine how proud he must have been to use his income from the new business to build the mansion.
Following his death, Conrad’s wife sold the mansion to another successful Louisville businessman, William Caldwell, whose company fabricated water tanks and towers. In 1987, residents in the old section of Louisville bought the building to be run as a non-profit museum.
Family members gave the Conrad-Caldwell House the look it has today. Listen intently to the narration by tour guides. Several are direct Caldwell descendants, who may reveal secrets from the mansion’s ghosts.
The Conrad-Caldwell House is in Old Louisville surrounded by other Victorian homes. It is open most of the year from Wednesday to Sunday. Purchase tickets online, from the visitor center or at the mansion. Admission is free for children under 6 years old. Tours are year-round and last just over an hour. Join a special monthly twilight tour from April to September, perhaps giving your best opportunity to see a ghost. Check the events calendar for lecture and concert schedules.
