Step Inside the Historic Seelye Mansion – Abilene’s Crown Jewel
When you stroll past the grand columns and stately façade of the Seelye Mansion, you can’t help but wonder what stories lie within. Built in 1905 for Dr. A.B. Seelye and his wife Jennette, this 25-room Georgian Revival masterpiece is more than just a beautiful home – it’s a living time capsule of turn-of-the-century elegance, innovation, and hospitality.
From Patent Medicines to Presidential Visitors
Dr. Seelye was a leader in the booming patent medicine industry, and his success allowed him to build a home that was ahead of its time. Step inside and you’ll see why it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places – from the original Edison light fixtures and Tiffany-style mantel to the impressive furnishings purchased at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. Fun fact: while the home cost over $40,000 to build, its furnishings rang in at over $55,000!
Treasures You Can’t See Anywhere Else
The mansion’s charm is in its details.
- A Steinway with a Story: Handpicked for Mrs. Seelye by Mr. Steinway himself, the 1920 piano still fills the rooms with music. If you’re lucky, current owner and tour guide Terry Tietjens might even treat you to “Home on the Range.”
- A Bowling Alley in the Basement: Not just any bowling alley – a rare 1904 box ball alley, ordered from the St. Louis World’s Fair. One museum once offered $1 million for it, but it’s staying right here in Abilene.
- Original Family Dining Table: Picture the first dinner served on Christmas Day 1905, celebrating the golden wedding anniversary of Dr. Seelye’s parents. You can still see the table, complete with Mrs. Seelye’s exquisite Haviland china collection.
Stories from the Sisters and the Soldiers
Helen and Marion Seelye, the family’s daughters, grew up here and never left. They welcomed guests, including WWII soldiers from nearby Fort Riley who often filled the third-floor ballroom with music and laughter. Today, upstairs bedrooms remain just as the sisters left them, offering a glimpse into their daily lives.
Gardens, History, and Holiday Magic
Don’t miss a stroll through the Seelye gardens, lovingly maintained for more than a century. And while every season is special, visitors agree that the holidays are pure magic, when the home is dressed in sparkling lights and festive décor.
Plan Your Visit
Tours begin at the Patent Medicine Museum and Visitors Center behind the mansion, where you’ll learn about Dr. Seelye’s groundbreaking products before stepping back in time inside the home. With daily tours led by Terry, every visit is filled with fascinating stories and warm hospitality.
Pro tip: Make it a historic getaway and stay at the nearby Engle House Bed & Breakfast, built by the same architect as the Seelye Mansion.
The Seelye Mansion isn’t just a historic home – it’s a place where the past comes alive. Whether you’re drawn by its architectural beauty, unique treasures, or the stories of the family who lived here, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Abilene’s place in America’s story.
Hours
- Mon-Sat: 10 am - 3 pm*
- Sun: 1 pm - 3 pm*
Tours typically last 90 min and include the mansion, gardens, and museum.
*Last tour of the day starts at 3 pm
Admission
- $15 Adults
- $7 Children age 6-16
No reservation required
Groups Rates
- 10+ Adults: $10/person
- Youth Groups: $5/person
Please call ahead or fill out the form below to request a group tour