Mercer County's great steel magnate, Frank H. Buhl, founded Sharon Steel Corporation, which then became Shenango Valley's primary source of income. After graduating from the university, Frank came to Sharon and fell in love with Julia Forker.
Industrialist Frank H. Buhl married in 1888, and Frank built a Richardson Romanesque castle for his beloved wife, Julia Forker Buhl. Buhl Mansion is one of Shanengo's mind-blowing architectural houses.
The architect Charles Owsley designed this castle in the Richardsonian Romanesque style. Construction of the house started in 1890 and lasted for six years.
The childless Buhls dedicated much energy and fortune to the betterment of the Shenango Valley, and their names are associated with many philanthropic ventures still in existence. The 14-room mansion, steeped in history, was saved from longtime neglect and restored to its former opulence by local businessman James Winner.
The Buhl Mansion, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is located on your left on the East Hill, just before the downtown area. Buhl was the “Father of the Industrial Shenango Valley.”
The Buhl Mansion, operated by the Winners as a bed and breakfast, also contains a spa and houses the Winners’ art collection. Guided tours are available for a fee.
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