'Tis the Season at the Historic Seelye Mansion
In the heart of Abilene, Kansas, lies a true architectural gem, named one of the "8 Wonders of Kansas - Architecture" by the Kansas Sampler Foundation – the Seelye Mansion. Steeped in history and elegance, this three-story Georgian-style mansion invites you to experience the grandeur of a bygone era. As the holiday season approaches, the Seelye Mansion transforms into a festive wonderland, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past.
Here are five things you need to know when visiting the mansion during the holidays:
1. Construction was completed on this home 118 years ago
The first dinner in the Seelye Mansion was on Christmas Day 1905 in honor of the 50th wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Mason Seelye, Dr. A.B. Seelye's parents. Visit the Seelye Mansion and you can sit at the same table they dined at!
2. Nutcrackers galore!
This holiday season, the Seelye Mansion becomes a haven for nutcracker enthusiasts. Thanks to a generous donor, the mansion now boasts a collection of over 750 nutcrackers, adorning its halls and creating a festive atmosphere that captivates visitors of all ages. Explore the halls and discover the unique stories behind these charming holiday figurines.
3. Poinsettias to Kansas
Discover the roots of a holiday tradition as you learn that Mrs. Seelye introduced the Poinsettia, a vibrant red plant, to Kansas. Today, the mansion continues this tradition with hundreds of Poinsettias decorating its rooms, infusing the air with a festive aroma and creating a visually stunning experience.
4. Trees, trees, and more trees!
No holiday is complete without the glow of Christmas trees, and the Seelye Mansion takes festive decorations to new heights. Witness the dedication of staff and volunteers who travel from miles away to partake in the holiday decorating extravaganza. Each room is adorned with the sparkle and charm of carefully adorned Christmas trees, making it a truly magical spectacle.
5. 38 Years of Tours!
The Seelye Mansion's story is made possible by the vision of Terry and Jerry Tietjens, who, 38 years ago, embarked on the journey of restoring and sharing this historic treasure with the world. Join the legacy by taking a guided tour, where the past comes to life through captivating stories and well-preserved artifacts.
*The first tour of the renovated Seelye Mansion was on Saturday, December 14, 1985 - 38 years ago!
Plan your visit
The Seelye Mansion welcomes visitors daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Monday to Saturday) and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. (Sunday). Tickets, priced at $15, can be purchased on the day of your tour. For the best experience, join a 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. tour. Park in the lot behind the mansion and start your journey at the Seelye Patent Medicine Museum. The Seelye Mansion beckons, offering a magical holiday experience that transcends time.
As the holiday season unfolds, make your way to Abilene's Seelye Mansion, where the spirit of Christmas intertwines with a rich tapestry of history. From Nutcrackers to Poinsettias, each corner reveals a piece of the past, inviting you to step into the enchanting world of Abilene's architectural marvel. Come and be a part of this timeless celebration – a holiday tradition that promises to create cherished memories for years to come.