Pittock Mansion Attraction
Address: 3229 NW Pittock Dr, Portland, OR 97210, United States
Located in the West Hills of Portland, Oregon, the Pittock Mansion is a French Renaissance-style château. It was constructed in 1914 as a private residence for Henry Pittock, a London-born Oregonian publisher, and his wife, Georgiana Burton Pittock. It is a 46-room estate made of Tenino Sandstone now owned by the city's Bureau of Parks and Recreation.
History
Pittock Mansion has a rich history, including being the first few places in Oregon to install electricity and hosting many illustrious visitors. However, in the past, it caused a political scandal when it had a water line constructed believed to have been funded by public funds.
It was designed by architect Edward T. Foulkes, who followed Henry’s dream of building an architecturally impressive house with the latest technology.
By running a Google search for the Pittock Mansion, you will also find it one of Portland's most famous landmarks. In addition, the attraction is frequently used as a background in movies and television programs, such as Grim.
The mansion was later added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.
Amenities
Pittock Mansion is said to have one of the best views in Portland. The mansion offers a great view of the Cascade mountains, believed to be inspired by Henry’s adventurous spirit as a hiker.
The mansion was lavishly designed as a residential home. It has 23 of its rooms used as bedrooms, a music room, and a smoking room, among many others. Foulkes, who had experience designing commercial buildings, had successfully integrated modern conveniences, too. This includes a thermostat-controlled central heating system, indirect electric lighting, refrigerator room, elevator, and central vacuum system.
Its original design also included a gate lodge and a three-car garage. It also contains greenhouses and a tennis court.
Features
The mansion was centrally heated (and still is). In addition, it had individually operated heating areas, which was uncommon at the time. Compared to most other homeowners who had to switch individual radiators up or down when hot or cold, the Pittock Mansion used thermostats and a pneumatic controller.
As appropriate to Foulke’s design, the mansion lacked air conditioning, relying instead on natural convection to keep it cool. The natural chimney formed by opening the windows on the upper floors and in the basement drew cool air in and vented hot air.
Getting There
The mansion is located in the West Hills of Portland. The mansion's ground has been transformed into a public park and is opened daily until nine in the evening.
Sharp Tack Media is proud to be a part of this historical spot and the people who make it their home. We hope that our work will help Pittock Mansion continue its rich history for many years to come.
Looking for another of Portland’s historical and exciting areas to visit? It's time to take a walk down memory lane (or up it!) by visiting Pioneer Courthouse Square, too!
