Oheka Castle stands as a grand symbol of opulence and history. Nestled in Huntington, New York, this magnificent estate has captured imaginations for decades. Built in 1919 by financier Otto Hermann Kahn, it remains the second-largest private residence in the United States. With 127 rooms, sprawling gardens, and a storied past, Oheka Castle has hosted celebrities, dignitaries, and even served as a backdrop for films and music videos. Did you know that it inspired the fictional Gatsby mansion in F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby"? Whether you're a history buff or just curious, these 35 facts about Oheka Castle will leave you amazed.
Key Takeaways:
- Oheka Castle, a historic mansion in New York, was once the second-largest private home in the U.S., with a fascinating past, including celebrity weddings and film appearances.
- After years of neglect, Oheka Castle underwent a $30 million restoration, becoming a luxury hotel and event venue, offering fine dining, luxury accommodations, and a haunted reputation.
The History of Oheka Castle
Oheka Castle, located in Huntington, New York, is a historic mansion with a rich past. Built in the early 20th century, it has seen many transformations. Here are some fascinating facts about its history.
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Construction Began in 1914: Otto Hermann Kahn, a financier and philanthropist, commissioned the construction of Oheka Castle in 1914.
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Second Largest Private Home in the U.S.: At the time of its completion in 1919, Oheka Castle was the second-largest private residence in the United States, with 127 rooms.
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Cost of Construction: The castle's construction cost was a staggering $11 million, equivalent to over $158 million today.
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Architectural Style: Designed by Delano & Aldrich, the castle features a French chateau-style architecture, inspired by the grand palaces of Europe.
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Name Origin: The name "Oheka" is derived from the initials of its original owner, Otto Hermann Kahn.
Oheka Castle's Role in Popular Culture
Oheka Castle has not only been a private residence but also a popular filming location and event venue. Its grandeur has made it a favorite among filmmakers and celebrities.
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Featured in Films: The castle has appeared in several movies, including "Citizen Kane" and "What Happens in Vegas."
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Music Videos: It has also been featured in music videos, such as Taylor Swift's "Blank Space."
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Television Shows: Oheka Castle has made appearances in TV shows like "Gossip Girl" and "Royal Pains."
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Celebrity Weddings: The castle has hosted numerous celebrity weddings, including that of Kevin Jonas and Danielle Deleasa.
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Inspiration for The Great Gatsby: Some believe that Oheka Castle inspired F. Scott Fitzgerald's depiction of Jay Gatsby's mansion in "The Great Gatsby."
Architectural Marvels of Oheka Castle
The castle's architecture is a marvel, with intricate designs and luxurious features that showcase the opulence of the early 20th century.
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Grand Staircase: The castle boasts a magnificent grand staircase, often used as a backdrop for weddings and photoshoots.
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Formal Gardens: The meticulously maintained formal gardens span over 10 acres and feature beautiful fountains and sculptures.
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Library: Oheka Castle's library is adorned with rich wood paneling and houses an extensive collection of books.
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Ballroom: The grand ballroom, with its high ceilings and crystal chandeliers, is a popular venue for events and parties.
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Secret Passageways: The castle contains several secret passageways, adding to its mystique and charm.
Oheka Castle's Restoration and Preservation
After years of neglect, Oheka Castle underwent significant restoration efforts to bring it back to its former glory. These efforts have ensured that the castle remains a historical landmark.
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Abandoned in the 1970s: The castle was abandoned in the 1970s and fell into disrepair, with vandals causing significant damage.
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Purchased by Gary Melius: In 1984, developer Gary Melius purchased the castle and began extensive restoration work.
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Restoration Cost: The restoration cost over million, covering everything from structural repairs to interior renovations.
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National Register of Historic Places: In 2004, Oheka Castle was added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its historical significance.
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Ongoing Maintenance: The castle requires ongoing maintenance to preserve its grandeur, with a dedicated team ensuring its upkeep.
Oheka Castle as a Luxury Hotel and Event Venue
Today, Oheka Castle operates as a luxury hotel and event venue, offering guests a taste of its historic elegance.
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Luxury Accommodations: The castle features 32 luxurious guest rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated.
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Fine Dining: Guests can enjoy fine dining at the castle's restaurant, which offers gourmet cuisine in an elegant setting.
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Wedding Venue: Oheka Castle is a sought-after wedding venue, with its picturesque gardens and grand interiors providing a stunning backdrop.
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Corporate Events: The castle also hosts corporate events, offering a unique and sophisticated setting for meetings and conferences.
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Special Packages: Oheka Castle offers special packages for guests, including romantic getaways and holiday celebrations.
Interesting Tidbits About Oheka Castle
Beyond its history and architecture, Oheka Castle has many interesting tidbits that add to its allure.
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Haunted Reputation: Some believe the castle is haunted, with reports of ghostly sightings and unexplained phenomena.
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Golf Course: Originally, the estate included an 18-hole golf course, which was one of the largest private courses in the country.
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Fire in 1919: Shortly after its completion, a fire broke out in the castle, causing significant damage that required extensive repairs.
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Military Use: During World War II, the castle was used as a training school for Merchant Marine radio operators.
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School for Photographers: In the 1940s, the castle housed a school for photographers, further diversifying its use.
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Private Ownership: Despite its commercial use, Oheka Castle remains privately owned by Gary Melius and his family.
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Public Tours: The castle offers public tours, allowing visitors to explore its history and architecture.
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Award-Winning: Oheka Castle has received numerous awards for its hospitality and preservation efforts.
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Film Location Fees: Filming at the castle can cost up to $50,000 per day, reflecting its high demand as a location.
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Cultural Landmark: Oheka Castle is considered a cultural landmark, representing the opulence and grandeur of America's Gilded Age.
Oheka Castle's Lasting Legacy
Oheka Castle stands as a testament to opulence and history. Built by Otto Hermann Kahn, this grand estate has seen everything from lavish parties to military training. Its architecture and gardens continue to captivate visitors, making it a popular spot for weddings and film shoots. The castle's rich history, including its role in inspiring F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," adds to its allure. Despite changing hands and purposes over the years, Oheka remains a symbol of luxury and elegance. Whether you're a history buff or just love beautiful places, Oheka Castle offers a glimpse into a bygone era. Its enduring charm ensures it will remain a beloved landmark for years to come. So, next time you're in New York, consider a visit to this magnificent estate. You'll be stepping into a piece of living history.
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