12/29 Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

 This is a large mansion and gardens near Akron, Ohio, that was originally owned by the man who was a co-founder of Goodyear Tire and Rubber.  It is an interesting place, built in 1910, and in the 1950s was donated as a non-profit by the family.  It has been restored to the original fixtures and furniture that would have been there in the early part of the 20th Century.  

During the spring, there are garden tours, but each Christmas, it is decorated and open to the public for several days.  It was a little tricky to take photos with so many people wandering around and at night with low light but lots of lights in the garden.  We arrived at 5:30 pm, so the first few photos were at dusk.

The theme of this year's display was Great Movies.

 

 

This is a real pipe organ. I was told the pipes were hidden behind the tapestry in the room. 

I liked this butler's pantry.

Interesting stove!

And a double bathroom. 

Ever been told by a doctor to take a sitz bath??  This little "tub" on the right is an original sitz bath.  You sat on it with your legs hanging over. 

 

 

Interesting shower.  We were wondering what the pipes were for.  Apparently, they sprayed water from the side, which was promoted as being good for the liver and internal organs. 

 

 

It was a fairly decent evening, so we went outside to view the gardens and the conservatory, aka greenhouse.  This is an orange tree.  Originally, greenhouses were often known as "orangeries" because they grew oranges and lemons and other exotic fruit.