Nestled in the heart of Plaza Midwood, the VanLandingham Estate stands as a living testament to a bygone era. What was once a manifestation of Ralph and Susie Harwood-VanLandingham's vision in 1913 has transformed with recent renovations, preserving not just the architectural splendor but also the rich history that defines this Charlotte landmark.
The VanLandingham Estate began its legacy in 1913 when Ralph and Susie Harwood-VanLandingham, seeking new opportunities, relocated from Georgia to Charlotte. Ralph's entry into the prosperous cotton brokerage industry during the textile boom further elevated the family's fortune. Susie, the creative force behind the estate's design, envisioned a home for grand entertaining. Acquiring the property and its five acres for $6000, they laid the foundation for what would become a historic masterpiece.
Originally part of Chatham Estates, an exclusive community featuring 5-acre lots, the area now known as Plaza Midwood witnessed a transformation during the Great Depression. While most landowners subdivided and sold their properties, the VanLandingham Estate remained intact, anchoring the community's heritage.
The VanLandingham family's influence extended beyond Plaza Midwood. Their mountain home in Linville, NC, inspired the estate's grounds, adorned with rhododendrons, cedars, and cypress. Stone from Linville found its way into the structure, driveways, and gardens.
Upon Ralph Jr.'s passing in 1970, the estate was bequeathed to UNC Charlotte. After a brief ownership, the estate narrowly escaped demolition and earned its place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.
Fast forward to today, with millions invested in renovations, Roby Commercial and ITC Millwork has breathed new life into the VanLandingham Estate.
It has become not only a beautiful and serene retreat but also a sought-after wedding venue. Each room, carefully adorned, provides a unique experience, and the meticulously landscaped gardens offer a picturesque backdrop for celebrations.
The VanLandingham Estate, a witness to Charlotte's evolution, stands tall as a testament to resilience and adaptation. From its inception in the cotton boom era to its current role as a cherished wedding venue, the estate's journey mirrors the ever-changing face of Plaza Midwood.
As couples exchange vows amidst its historic walls, they become part of a legacy that transcends time, making the VanLandingham Estate not just a venue but a living piece of Charlotte's history.
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