Riordan Mansion

Tim and Michael were an unlikely pair. Tim Riordan–looking every bit the Irishman– was 6’2 and a rugged outdoorsman. Michael appeared to be more delicate and had planned on becoming a Jesuit priest before contracting tuberculosis. The two brothers married two sisters from Cincinnatti, Caroline and Elizabeth Metz. In 1904 the two families built a 13,000 square foot, Arts and Crafts-style duplex, designed by renowned architect Charles Whittlesey. The two wings mirror each other and are connected by a large, wood-paneled billiards room (or Ballroom, as the occasion called for.) Dubbed Riordan Mansion by the city, the homes contain servant quarters, indoor bathrooms, kitchen and dining rooms as well as multiple bedrooms. The surrounding land sits perilously close to N.A.U. but is beautifully landscaped with flowers, shrubbery and shade trees. Tours of the home are available throughout the week and special events– as well as lectures and fairs– are often free to the public.