Story of the Gibson House aka Mark Twain Manor

 

Since 1856, a large Italianate Victorian house and its residents have dominated the little town of Jamestown, PA.  Original owner William Gibson was a 19th century renaissance man:  a physician, founder of four railroads, banker, real estate developer, investor in coal and mica mines, world traveler, and used this home as a stop on the Underground Railroad.  His biggest claim to fame, however, was his friendship with writer Mark Twain.  They met on a trip to the Holy Lands which was documented in Twain’s “The Innocents Abroad.”

 

In 2002, the Gibson House, now on the National Historic Register, was purchased by a community based organization to ensure that the structure would be enjoyed by all the people of the greater Pymatuning Lake region.  To date, the Carriage House has gone from danger of collapse to a restored building meeting Historical Architectural Preservation Standards.  The Mansion itself has received new HVAC systems, indoor and outdoor ADA compliant upgrades, and four of five needed roof replacements.  It has also suffered foreclosure notices, a threatened sheriff sale, deferred maintenance, and a revolving door of tenants.  

 

In spring 2014, the Board of Directors was reorganized with new members, many who have non-profit agency experience.  They fill the executive officer positions and are committed to run a transparent, public, and fiscally responsible organization.   These new “Friends of the Manor” are doubling their efforts to ensure the viability of this area’s prime community treasure.  We want every member of the community to have a say on the direction of the organization and we want to remove any political perceptions and overtones.

 

In order to stabilize the long term finances, we run an annual membership drive to cover the basic operating expenses of the House.  Yes, there are funding opportunities for House restoration and Community programs; however no one hands out money to pay the mortgage or the electric bill.  This core community membership of 1,000 shows grant makers that the Gibson House is a worthwhile investment.  

 

The Members provide the long-term success of the House:  they use their talents for leadership and direction of the operation.  Their monetary contributions free the house from finding tenants and doing endless small fundraisers.  That time and effort can be used to work on securing grants, restoring the building, and hosting fun public events, just because we can.