Photo: Johnny Joo – Odd World Studio

Lorenzo Webber’s Enduring Legacy in Elmira

The Lasting Tributes: Lorenzo Place and Webber Place

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Elmira, two picturesque streets, Lorenzo Place and Webber Place, stand as silent yet eloquent tributes to Lorenzo Webber, a man whose influence and legacy have become woven into the very fabric of the area. These streets are more than mere roadways; they are enduring symbols of a bygone era, carrying the name of a man who played a pivotal role in shaping the community. Lorenzo’s legacy is further cemented in Elmira’s history through his daughter, Adele, who formed a significant marital alliance by marrying the progeny of the renowned Judge Hiram Gray, the distinguished individual after whom Gray Street is named.

The Union of the Webber and Gray Families

However, the crown jewel in the Webber family’s historical legacy is undoubtedly “The Castle,” a majestic and imposing 10-bedroom mansion that presides over 615 Columbia St. Dating back to the 1870s, this architectural masterpiece stands as a testament to the family’s prominence and their enduring impact on the region.

Lorenzo Webber: A Tale of Early Years and Entrepreneurial Ventures

Journey from Vermont to Elmira: A Tale of Transformation

The story of Lorenzo Webber is one of ambition and transformation. Born in 1817 in the rustic landscapes of Vermont, Webber embarked on a significant journey to Elmira in 1867. His early years were marked by a move with his family to Orange in Schuyler County at the tender age of 11. These formative years were a blend of agricultural labor and educational pursuits, shaping him into a well-rounded individual. His passion for knowledge led him to a brief yet impactful stint in the world of teaching.

Diverse Business Ventures and Success

By 1840, Webber had embarked on an entrepreneurial journey, delving into the world of farming independently. Prior to his move to Elmira, he demonstrated a remarkable acumen for business, achieving success in a variety of ventures, ranging from dry goods to the lumber trade, and even making his mark in the milling and tanning sectors.

Webber’s Impact on Coal Mining and Politics

Establishing the Bloss Coal Mining and Railroad Company

Webber’s business acumen was vividly displayed in 1865 when he joined forces with other prominent figures such as John Arnot and the Cook brothers to establish the Bloss Coal Mining and Railroad Company. This venture, richly detailed in Joyce Tice’s “Tri County History,” was a bold foray into acquiring vast coal lands in Pennsylvania and upgrading the Tioga Railroad to bolster coal and lumber operations.

A Foray into Politics

Webber’s involvement in politics was marked by a transition from a Whig to a fervent supporter of the Republican Party. He made significant political contributions, serving two terms in the New York State Assembly as a representative of Schuyler County from 1864-1865, demonstrating his commitment to public service and governance.

The Creation and Architecture of “The Castle”

Erecting an American Architectural Marvel

In 1876, Lorenzo and Jane Webber embarked on a grand project, constructing “The Castle,” a magnificent structure that epitomized the luxury and architectural preferences of affluent Americans of that era. Drawing inspiration from the Second Empire style, which flourished during the reign of Louis Napoleon in France, the mansion featured a unique mansard roof, a concept pioneered by the 17th-century French architect Francois Mansart, brilliantly combining aesthetic elegance with practical utility.

Intricate Architectural Details and Design

Contrary to popular belief that Pierce and Bickford were the architects, it is more likely that the creative genius behind “The Castle” was Horatio Nelson White, a renowned architect from Syracuse. This was suggested in a detailed 2006 “Star Gazette” article, which highlighted White’s significant contributions to Elmira’s architectural landscape during that period.

“The Castle”: The Webber Legacy and Modern Revival

Stewardship of the Webber Family

“The Castle,” encompassing over 8,200 square feet, is an architectural treasure featuring exquisite French Gothic woodwork, relief tile fireplaces, ornate moldings, and towering ceilings surpassing 12 feet. The exterior, a harmonious blend of three distinct types of stone, is accentuated by eight chateau-style towers, endowing the mansion with a medieval allure. Following Lorenzo Webber’s passing in 1884, Adele and her spouse assumed guardianship of the mansion, preserving it within the family until 1915.

Restoration and Renewed Interest in the 21st Century

In a turn of events that captivated public attention in 2021, Metro New York Housing, LLC acquired “The Castle” for $200,000. Mehdi Hasan, a Brooklyn-based contractor, expressed in a WETM report his ambitious plans to restore this historic mansion to its original glory.