The Winderbourne Mansion, a magnificent Victorian-style house, was constructed in 1884 by Enoch and Mary Totten. Enoch Totten, a Civil War veteran and prominent Washington lawyer, and Mary Totten, who hailed from considerable wealth, as her father was Timothy Howe, a senator from Wisconsin. Timothy Howe was also the cousin and heir of Elias Howe, renowned for perfecting the sewing machine. Elias Howe’s invention of the Bobbin-Winder served as the inspiration for the name of the mansion.
Originally, Winderbourne sported a charming pink hue accented by dark rose trimming. The Tottens, known for their fondness for gardening, employed a team of gardeners year-round to tend to the exotic plants they imported from various corners of the globe.
Local lore surrounding the mansion often speaks of hauntings, partly due to the tragic events that unfolded within its walls. All three of the Totten children fell ill with Typhoid fever, likely stemming from contaminated drinking water. Sadly, one of the children succumbed to the illness. Another heart-wrenching incident involved Edith Totten, a daughter who later became a doctor. She adopted a daughter of her own, who tragically lost her life after sliding down a long banister in the house, presumably falling off in the process.
In 1929, ownership of the house changed hands to Edward and Beulah Pickrell, marking a new chapter in its history. Their son, Edward Pickrell Jr., inherited the property and resided there until his passing in 2004. Despite efforts by his brother Paxton Pickrell to sell the deteriorating property over the years, no suitable buyer has been found.
Currently, the house sits abandoned with no plans for restoration in sight. However, its dilapidated state makes it a captivating subject for photographers. Spanning nine acres, the property features several vintage muscle cars in the backyard, surrounded by lush trees and flowers. Situated adjacent to the Black Hills regional park, it offers a picturesque view of the water.
Exploring the interior reveals a scene frozen in time, with old furniture, letters, magazines, and clothing scattered throughout the house.
While the site may pique curiosity, it’s important to note the abundance of “No Trespassing” and “Private Property” signs dotting the area. As such, it’s advisable to admire the house from a distance to respect the property’s current status.
