Imagine standing on a terrace, the panoramic vista of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region unfurling beneath you. It’s not just that you can see and feel the forests, rolling hills, and shimmering waters. Imagining owning it.
The air is crisp, the serenity all-enveloping, and you feel a sense of grandeur as you gaze upon your domain. This is what it might be like to be Thomas Gustave Plant, the owner of the magnificent Castle in the Clouds, an estate that melds natural splendor with human ingenuity.
Perched atop the Ossipee Mountain Range, the Castle in the Clouds, also known as Lucknow Estate, was the brainchild a prosperous shoe manufacturer from Massachusetts. Plant envisioned and created this sprawling estate at the during the Gilded Age, when other tycoons of industry and finance were building estates in Newport to impress each other, Plant built his summer estate Lucknow to get away from the heat, and from high society.
Not much is known about the private life of Gilded Age industrialist Thomas Gustave Plant, but judging from Lucknow, we can assume that he enjoyed nature and the outdoors more than hobnobbing with the posh socialites of the era like the Astors and Vanderbilts.
Plant, who had made his fortune manufacturing shoes, purchased 6,300 acres of land in the Ossipee Mountains, drawn by its isolation and stunning views. In Newport, the uber-wealthy’s mansions sit shoulder-to-shoulder, but Plant bought so much land that he would never have to see his neighbors.
Lucknow Estate’s construction was an architectural and logistical marvel of its time. The mansion, designed in the Arts and Crafts style, features a distinct integration with its surroundings. Local materials such as granite and oak were used extensively, and the house boasts innovative features, including a central vacuum system, an intercom system, and ammonia-brined refrigerators, all cutting-edge technologies for the period.
The mansion’s design incorporates vast windows and terraces to maximize the breathtaking views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the surrounding mountains.
Inside, the mansion boasted around 16 to 18 bedrooms, each appointed with tasteful furnishings and decor reflective of the era’s style. Plant’s attention to detail was evident throughout the interior, with cozy sitting rooms, libraries, and parlors adorned with rich wood paneling and ornate light fixtures, creating an atmosphere of warmth and refinement.
Anyone determined to visit Plant during the summer had to take the train from Boston to Moultonborough NH, then ride a carriage to the house’s perch overlooking Plant’s kingdom.
Beyond the mansion, the estate itself is a marvel of natural beauty. The property includes miles of carriage trails that wind through forests, past crystal-clear streams, and over picturesque bridges, providing ample opportunities for leisurely strolls or horseback rides.
As you wander further through the expansive Lucknow Estate, you’ll come upon the stables, a quintessential part of the estate that speaks to the grandeur and practicality of Thomas Plant’s vision.
The stables, a sturdy and elegant structure, reflect the same attention to detail and craftsmanship found in the mansion. Constructed with a blend of local stone and timber, the stables housed Plant’s prized horses, essential for traversing the estate’s extensive carriage trails. The building’s design ensured that the horses were well cared for, with spacious stalls, ample natural light, and excellent ventilation. Each stall was thoughtfully equipped with a feeder and a watering system, showcasing Plant’s commitment to modern conveniences and the well-being of his animals.
Adjacent to the stables, the carriage house served as a garage for Plant’s collection of carriages and, later, automobiles.
0T0oday, the stables and carriage house have been meticulously preserved and repurposed to enhance the visitor experience. They now function as part of the estate’s interpretive center, offering educational displays and interactive exhibits about the estate’s equestrian history and the role of horses in maintaining such a vast property.
Seasonal events and horse-related activities, such as carriage rides and equestrian demonstrations, are also hosted here, allowing visitors to connect with the estate’s rich heritage in a hands-on way.
The Brook Walk, a particularly enchanting trail, leads visitors past a series of cascading waterfalls, including the striking Falls of Song, a 40-foot drop that mesmerizes with its powerful beauty.
A visit to the Falls of Song is an essential part of the Castle in the Clouds experience. It provides a moment of connection with nature, a chance to pause and marvel at the wonders of the natural world. As you stand there, enveloped in the sound of the water and the beauty of the surroundings, you’ll understand why this waterfall remains one of the most cherished treasures of the estate
Throughout the year, Castle in the Clouds hosts a variety of ongoing events and special tours that enhance the visitor experience and bring the rich history of the estate to life. One of the most popular offerings is the “Behind the Scenes” tour, which provides an in-depth look at areas of the mansion not typically open to the public. This tour delves into the intricacies of the estate’s innovative features, such as the central vacuum system and early electrical installations, giving visitors a deeper appreciation for the technological advancements of the early 20th century. Guests can explore the servants’ quarters and other hidden corners of the mansion, gaining insight into the daily lives of those who maintained the estate.
Seasonal events also play a significant role in the estate’s calendar. In the spring and summer, garden tours highlight the meticulously maintained grounds and flowerbeds, showcasing the vibrant blooms and landscape design that make Lucknow’s gardens a feast for the senses.
These tours often include expert talks on horticulture and the history of the estate’s plantings, offering both beauty and education. Autumn brings the Fall Foliage tours, where visitors can immerse themselves in the spectacular colors of the New Hampshire landscape. The estate’s trails provide the perfect vantage points for viewing the brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows that blanket the surrounding hills and forests. These tours often include guided hikes that explain the science behind the changing leaves and the significance of the region’s flora and fauna.
Today, the Castle in the Clouds operates as a historic house museum, offering a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the early 20th century elite. Visitors can tour the mansion, preserved with much of its original furnishings and decor, to experience the grandeur firsthand.
The estate’s grounds are open for exploration, with well-maintained trails and picnic spots inviting guests to immerse themselves in the natural splendor. Practical details for visitors are thoughtfully provided to enhance the experience. The estate is located at 455 Old Mountain Road in Moultonborough, New Hampshire, and is open to the public from late May through early October. Admission includes access to the mansion, gardens, and carriage trails, with guided tours available for those who wish to delve deeper into the history and architecture of Lucknow. The on-site Carriage House Café offers a charming spot to relax and enjoy a meal with panoramic views.
For more information
www.castleintheclouds.org
Micheal A. Walsh, a prolific travel writer, delves deep into the historical events and sights in the Northeastern US, crafting meticulously researched travel articles for Northeast Traveler Magazine. Walsh skillfully weaves narratives that transport readers through time, exploring the captivating stories behind the region's landmarks. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for uncovering hidden gems, Walsh's articles serve as a gateway for readers to embark on historical journeys, immersing themselves in the fascinating past of the Northeast.
