Thistledown at Seger House- Ligonier, PA

Thistledown at Seger House has been on quite a crazy ride over the past century. Considering its past incarnations, it’s a absolute miracle it emerged with so many architectural elements intact. These elements are what elevate the property, and ultimately save it from mediocrity. The building undeniably has good bones. Indeed, the rooms themselves are fabulous here; the rest of the property, however is still a work in progress.

John Seger, a Gilded Age coal and timber baron, spared no expense when he built his Ligonier home in 1915. Constructed of substantial Lake Superior Sandstone, with a roof of green Ludowici terra cotta tile, it certainly showcased Seger’s immense wealth. Exquisite woodwork was installed throughout the interior of the house, as well as stunning stained glass windows, possibly Tiffany, and custom tile work from the American Encaustic Tiling, Co. Unfortunately, Seger died only 15 years after the mansion’s completion.

Following Seger’s death in 1930, his family sold the house to the Allegheny County Sisters of Mercy. Given the year, it was probably sold for a song. The substantial space was then converted into a hospital, which it remained for decades. In fact, it was a surgical center until 2011, which is somewhat shocking. In late 2011 it was listed for sale, eventually selling in 2013 for a mere $265,000.

Understandably, the property required substantial restoration. The new owners hadn’t even considered uses for the mansion, outside of a yarn store they owned and relocated to the first floor. However, eventually the decision was made to convert the space upstairs to guest rooms, and a boutique hotel was born. Salvaging and restoring original surviving elements, an elegant eight room inn emerged from the ashes of the surgical center. The grandeur of the impressive home returned.

Despite being wonderfully restored, the space feels unfinished. During our visit, the restaurant that once occupied the first floor had gone out of business, leaving vacant, unused space. A winery tasting room was added at some point, off the first floor lobby, but it feels like an afterthought, and not entirely inviting, with signs warning of video surveillance. The addition of a proper lounge or bar would certainly elevate the space, lending a true boutique hotel experience, and distancing them from the Bed and Breakfast image they want to avoid.

As of this time, the current owners are looking to sell the property, so if you have almost $2 million, you could open your own operation, and add the above mentioned amenities. Located just a few blocks from the quaint historic downtown, and walkable to all the town’s attractions, it is a wonderful retreat for those who want to return to the past, with all the modern conveniences.