When you think about Cincinnati Nature Center, miles of hiking trails, picturesque views, and the sights and sounds of wildlife probably come to mind.
But what about the historic homes built among the woods more than a century ago?
Originally serving as private homes for Carl and Mary Krippendorf and Grace Groesbeck, Krippendorf Lodge and Groesbeck Estate are as stunning as they are different.
Built in 1900, Krippendorf Lodge is a Victorian era-inspired home with a charming covered porch wrapping around three sides.
Groesbeck Estate, built in 1920, has a completely different feel. Modeled as an English Manor, its stone exterior makes for a breathtaking sight nestled within the woods surrounding it.
Designed to blend with the natural world, both homes feature large terraces for additional hosting space and have been added to the National Register of Historic Places.
While these homes are no longer used for everyday living, they are still filled with families and friends making memories at events like weddings and other celebrations.
A quick Google search will reveal dozens of venues in the Cincinnati area but none quite like the historic homes found at Rowe Woods.
It’s why brides like Jessamine Inskeep choose to host their special day at the Nature Center.
“Having my wedding at the Groesbeck Estate was the best decision I ever had,” Jessamine said. “It’s an amazing, intimate location nestled away with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest.
“I would recommend the Groesbeck Estate to any couple looking for a beautiful venue to celebrate their big day or anyone searching for a venue for a special event.”
For more information about Krippendorf Lodge and Groesbeck Estate, visit https://www.cincynature.org/rentals/.
Fun Facts about Carl and Mary Krippendorf
– Lodge was the couple’s summer home until central heating was installed in the 1930s; they would retreat to their heated home on Gilbert Avenue in Cincinnati during the winter months.
– Carl first came to what is now Rowe Woods to recover from typhoid fever by taking in the clean water and fresh air. His love for the land grew as he explored the woods and creeks with the children of the doctor’s family with whom he stayed during his recovery.
– Carl’s family owned a shoe company in downtown Cincinnati at the corner of Sycamore and Sixth streets. Carl began work at the shoe factory at age 14, eventually becoming director.
– The Krippendorfs’ focus was on the land. The wrap-around porch and many doors let nature in. Carl’s love of daffodils remains evident each spring as thousands bloom around Krippendorf Lodge and throughout Rowe Woods.
Fun Facts about Grace Groesbeck
– Grace grew up at 401 East Fourth Street (now the University Club of Cincinnati). Her father was a prominent eye surgeon.
– Grace and her husband, Glendinning, purchased acreage near the Krippendorfs because of their long-standing friendship with the couple; they would later divorce and Grace would become the sole owner of the property.
– Artistic ironwork for the home was commissioned by acclaimed craftsman Marie Zimmermann.
– British landscape designer Gertrude Jekyll was commissioned to design the garden, which included a stone pillar garden that still exists today.