Member-only story

Pen Mar: A Nostalgic Journey Through Time

Percy Bysshe Shelley

·9.4k Followers· Follow

Published in Pen Mar (Images Of America)

5 min read · 2 weeks before

767 View Claps

53 Respond

Save

Listen

The Birth of a Mountain Resort

In the late 19th century, as the country emerged from the Civil War, a growing appetite for leisure and recreation fueled the development of mountain resorts. In 1870, a group of investors led by General Daniel Sickles, a prominent Union general and diplomat, Free Downloadd 1,000 acres on South Mountain. Their vision was to create a luxurious summer destination, accessible by both rail and road from nearby cities.

The Pen Mar Hotel, a magnificent Victorian structure, became the cornerstone of the resort. Designed by renowned architect Arthur Meigs, its grand facade and ornate interiors rivaled those of the finest hotels in Europe. The hotel offered elegant accommodations, fine dining, and a range of amenities to cater to the needs of affluent guests.

Pen Mar (Images of America)

by Franklin P. Woodring

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	47595 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	128 pages

A Summer Playground for the Affluent

Pen Mar quickly emerged as a popular destination for the wealthy and fashionable set. Its scenic beauty, cool mountain air, and abundance of recreational activities drew visitors from afar. Guests could spend their days hiking, fishing, boating, or playing golf on the resort's nine-hole course. Evenings were filled with elegant dinners, music, and social events.

The resort also attracted prominent personalities and celebrities. President Ulysses S. Grant and his wife, Julia, were frequent guests, and the hotel's guest register includes signatures from literary giants such as Mark Twain and Henry James.

A Legacy of Healthcare and Education

In addition to its recreational allure, Pen Mar also served as a center for healthcare and education. The Pen Mar Sanatorium, established in 1915, was a renowned tuberculosis treatment facility. The sanatorium's innovative approach and scenic surroundings provided a refuge for those suffering from the deadly disease.

The Pen Mar School for Girls, founded in 1926, offered a progressive education for young women. The school's curriculum emphasized physical fitness, outdoor activities, and practical skills. Its graduates went on to make significant contributions in various fields, including medicine, education, and the arts.

A Changing Landscape

The fortunes of Pen Mar fluctuated over time. The Great Depression and changing travel patterns impacted its popularity as a resort destination. However, the town continued to evolve, adapting to new uses while preserving its rich history.

Today, Pen Mar is a charming town with a mix of historic and modern buildings. The Pen Mar Hotel, now a historic inn, continues to welcome visitors. The grounds of the former sanatorium have been converted into a public park, offering scenic hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The Pen Mar School, now the Pen Mar Community Church, remains an active hub for the community. And throughout the town, one can find reminders of its past: Victorian cottages, elegant churches, and the nostalgic atmosphere of a bygone era.

"Pen Mar: Images of America"

Pen Mar (Images of America)

by Franklin P. Woodring

5 out of 5