Introduction

The Steele Mansion, located in the historic heart of Painesville, Ohio, is a remarkable example of the architectural grandeur and rich history that defined Painesville’s earlier days. Built in 1867, this magnificent old home, known as the “Jewel of Painesville,” has stood the test of time, witnessing the ebb and flow of fortunes, tragedies, and the whispers of the past that echo through its halls. From its construction by George Steele, a prominent figure in Painesville’s history, to its near-demise and subsequent resurrection, the Steele Mansion’s story is as captivating as the ghosts that reputedly roam its corridors.

The Foundation of Grandeur

The Early Days

The story of the Steele Mansion begins in 1867, marking a pivotal chapter in Painesville’s architectural history. Constructed as the residence for George Steele, an opulent businessman, and significant figure in the local community, the mansion quickly earned the name of the “Jewel of Painesville.” According to historical records and accounts, the daily newspaper of the time lauded the mansion as the grandest home in town, setting a new benchmark for luxury and elegance​​.

George Steele’s choice to build such a stately home was not just a personal triumph but also a testament to his vision for his family and his standing in the city of Painesville. The mansion, with its elaborate design and imposing presence, was destined to become a beacon of the Steele family’s success and a focal point of the town’s social life.

Architectural Marvel

Reflecting the grandiose tastes of the mid-19th century, the Steele Mansion was designed in the French Second Empire style, a choice that aligned with the architectural vogue of the era. This style, characterized by its ornate detailing, mansard roofs, and imposing facade, was immensely popular in the United States during the 1850s. The mansion’s design not only showcased the wealth and social aspirations of the Steele family but also represented a cultural and architectural statement, capturing the essence of an era that was fascinated by opulence and grandeur​​.

Today, the Steele Mansion stands as a remarkable example of this architectural tradition, offering insights into the design sensibilities that defined the period. Its preservation and continued existence allow visitors and architectural enthusiasts alike to appreciate the craftsmanship and aesthetic principles of the 19th century. The foundation of the Steele Mansion set the stage for a rich history that would see the building witness to both prosperity and adversity. 

A Legacy in the Making

The Steele Dynasty

George Worthington Steele, born in 1824 and passing in 1881, was a prominent figure in Painesville, Ohio, recognized for his contributions as a wealthy banker and politician. His life was marked by personal tragedies and professional successes, which together weave the rich tapestry of his legacy. Steele married Sarah Adams Palmer in 1843, with whom he had two children, both of whom tragically died in their childhood. Following Sarah’s death, Steele remarried Lucia C. Sessions on May 14, 1879​​​​.

The family tree of George Worthington Steele is marked by his parents, Horace Steele Sr. and Hannah Clark Steele, as well as his siblings and children, illustrating a lineage that played a significant role in the history of Painesville. His life and legacy, encapsulated by the grandeur of the Steele Mansion and his contributions to the banking and political landscape of Ohio, remain an integral part of Painesville’s heritage​​.

The Steele Mansion was more than just a residence; it was a symbol of the Steele family’s prominence and legacy in Painesville. George Steele played a pivotal role in the community, and his mansion reflected the family’s status. After George Steele’s passing in 1881, the mansion remained in the family, serving as a testament to their enduring legacy. The Steele family, both immediate and extended, continued to maintain the mansion for several decades, ensuring that it remained a significant landmark in Painesville​​.

The mansion’s transition through various members of the Steele family highlights its importance not just as a building but as a custodian of family heritage. It was a center of social life, hosting numerous guests and events that added to its lore as the “Jewel of Painesville.”

Historical Significance

The Steele Mansion’s significance extends beyond its architectural marvel and familial legacy. In 1917, the property was purchased by E.D. Heartwell, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its history. Subsequently, Lake Erie College acquired the mansion, transforming it into a residence for college presidents and later, a dormitory for students. This period of academic association enriched the mansion’s history, linking it to the educational and cultural development of Painesville​​.

The mansion’s role as a multifamily dwelling and its eventual purchase and restoration by Christina and Clyde Dubeansky in 1998 further illustrate its adaptability and continued relevance to the community.

The Steele Mansion’s journey through the centuries is a narrative of resilience, adaptation, and preservation. Its significance lies not only in its architectural beauty but also in its capacity to evolve and serve various roles in the community, from a family home to an academic residence, and finally, as a cherished historic site.

From Ashes to Renovation

Tragedy Strikes

The Steele Mansion’s history is marked by resilience in the face of adversity, particularly evident in the series of tragic fires it endured. The most notable incident occurred in January 2001, under the ownership of Christina and Clyde Dubeansky, who had invested significantly in restoring the mansion’s grandeur. This fire, caused by contractors attempting to melt ice on the roof, inflicted severe damage, leaving the Dubeanskys without the resources to undertake another restoration​​.

The period following the fire saw the mansion exposed to the elements, its beauty marred by decay and neglect. Nature began to reclaim the once majestic home, with moss spreading across floors and paint peeling from walls, creating a poignant tableau of decay. This phase of abandonment turned the mansion into a hauntingly beautiful relic, a canvas for nature’s slow, relentless artistry​​.

The Resurrection

The turning point in the mansion’s fortunes came with the Shamakian family’s purchase in December 2010. Unaware of the demolition decree looming over the property, they embarked on what Carol Shamakian described as “the adventure of a lifetime.” The family faced the daunting task of rescuing the mansion from its severely dilapidated state, embarking on a comprehensive restoration that would take place over the following five years, and breathe new life into the historic structure​​​​.

The Shamakians’ efforts culminated in 2015, when the Steele Mansion reopened its doors, transformed from a symbol of decay to one of rebirth and enduring legacy. The restoration preserved the mansion’s original brick walls and the grand walnut staircase, ensuring that its architectural integrity and historical essence were maintained for future generations to appreciate​​.

Today, the mansion stands as a testament to the vision and perseverance of those who saw beyond its dilapidation, recognizing the value of preserving such a significant piece of Painesville’s history. The Steele Mansion’s journey from ashes to renovation is a compelling narrative of preservation, showcasing the impact of dedicated stewardship on historical landmarks.

The transformation of the Steele Mansion from a state of neglect to a vibrant, living piece of history is not just a story of architectural restoration; it’s an incredible example of the community’s connection to its heritage and the power of collective memory in shaping our understanding of the past.

Ethereal Inhabitants

Ghosts of the Mansion

The Steele Mansion’s rich history extends beyond the tangible, dipping into the ethereal realm where spirits from its past are said to linger. The mansion is reputed to be home to several spectral residents, each adding a layer of mystique to this historic mansion. Among the most notable spirits are George Steele himself and Sarah Steele, his wife, whose presences have been sensed and reported by paranormal investigators and guests alike.

George Steele, the mansion’s original patriarch, is occasionally perceived, his presence marked by unexplained phenomena. During one investigation, an investigator appealed to George to cease disturbing the guests, a request that, after initial reluctance, was reportedly heeded​​. Sarah Steele’s spirit, on the other hand, is characterized by a more serene presence. In one touching anecdote, she requested pink roses for her room, influencing the room’s current floral theme complete with a crystal chandelier, or as she purportedly admires it, the “jewelry on the ceiling”​​.

Paranormal Investigations

The Steele Mansion has attracted paranormal investigators eager to explore its spectral phenomena. These investigations have revealed not just the spirits of George and Sarah Steele but also other entities, such as Chester, possibly a family dog, and two playful little boys residing in the basement, believed to be from different eras yet bound by their afterlife in the mansion. The most mobile spirit, an Irish maid, is frequently sensed tending to her duties.

These paranormal occurrences are not limited to specific rooms or times; they pervade the entire mansion, contributing to its allure as a destination for those fascinated by the supernatural. The mansion’s transformation into a hotel has not deterred these spirits, who seem to coexist peacefully with the living, occasionally making their presence known in subtle, sometimes comforting ways.

The Mansion Today

A New Era

Today, the Steele Mansion has embarked on a new chapter as a AAA four-diamond hotel, welcoming guests from around the world to experience its historic grandeur and perhaps encounter its otherworldly residents. The restoration has not only preserved the mansion’s architectural beauty but also revitalized its role in the community, serving as a venue for events, tours, and paranormal investigations​​.

Cultural and Community Impact

The Steele Mansion’s restoration and conversion into a hotel have significantly contributed to Painesville’s cultural landscape, offering a unique glimpse into the town’s history while providing a luxury experience for visitors. Its success demonstrates the value of preserving historical landmarks, not just for their architectural merit but for their ability to tell the stories of those who came before us.

 As a hotel, the mansion now offers guests a chance to step back in time, immerse themselves in its rich history, and perhaps encounter a ghostly inhabitant, making each visit an unforgettable journey through time and beyond.

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