Since 1915, Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens has proudly stood as a historical gem in Akron. As the largest historical estate in Ohio and the sixth largest in the nation, it is a must-see highlight for visitors to Summit County. Built between 1912 and 1915 for F.A. Seiberling, cofounder of The Goodyear and Tire Rubber Company, Stan Hywet was home to the Seiberling family until it was generously donated to the community of Akron in 1957. Named Stan Hywet because of it’s meaning in old English which is “Stone Quary”. Today, the house is open seasonally, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Upon arriving at Stan Hywet, the scenic journey down the hidden driveway builds anticipation. The entrance is right where the Gate Lodge sits, which has history of its own as the founding location of Alcoholics Anonymous. Once parked, visitors are directed to the main entrance at the Carriage House, which originally served as the garage and horse stables. With ticket in hand, the expansive grounds and estate beckon you to explore. The manor, tucked away from street view, gradually reveals its grandeur as you approach.
Walking towards the front door, the manor peeks through a canopy of 100+ year-old trees. Entering the home, the first stop on the left is the Music Room, home to a fully functional organ embedded within the walls. This room was a popular gathering space for the Seiberling family’s parties. From the enchanting sounds of the organ, the tour continues to the Great Hall, showcasing tapestries from the 1500s. This room leads to the formal Dining Room and kitchen, where the family hosted grand dinner parties. They typically dined in the more intimate Breakfast Room across the hall.
Descending to the basement reveals one of the home’s most unique features: an indoor swimming pool named the Plunge, complete with the original wooden diving board. Also on this level is the gym and various exhibits curated by staff that provide insights into the house’s construction, featuring blueprints and layouts.
The second floor, where the family and guests resided, is filled with original furnishings and utilities. Nearly 95% of all the furnishings in the home are original to the estate. The guest wing, a testament to the home's notable visitors including President William Taft and Helen Keller, offers a glimpse into its illustrious past. The Master Suite, with a window overlooking the Great Hall, is adorned with beautiful craft lamps and stunning artwork, making it a highlight of the tour.
After exploring the Manor House, the gardens await. The meticulously maintained 70 acres include breathtaking spaces like the Japanese Garden and Birch Tree Allée. The Japanese Garden, located behind the house, offers a serene retreat with its calming atmosphere. Birch Tree Allée, a 550-foot path extending from the east side of the house, guides you from the home office to an overlook of the lagoons. At the end of the Allée are the Tea Houses. These two pavilions were used to protect the family from bad weather if they got caught in it as well as to enjoy the calming features of the lagoon. From there, a stroll through the Grape Arbor leads to the Corbin Conservatory, where you can feed butterflies using cotton swabs—a delightful end to your tour.
Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens is perfect for history buffs, landscape lovers, or anyone seeking a fun and educational outing. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens.