West Virginia's Castle

August 6, 2023 -- West Virginia seems like an odd place for a castle, but there is one that sits on top of the hill overlooking Berkeley Springs. The Berkeley Springs Castle is a castle-like house (cottage) that was built for Samuel Taylor Suit of Washington DC. Suit was a Maryland politician and landowner. He met his much younger third wife in Berkeley Springs. 

Construction of Berkeley Castle began in 1880, but was not completed until the early 1890's after Suit had died. Mrs. Suit entertained lavishly at the house until her money ran out and the property was sold in 1913.

The castle consists of 13 (or 15) rooms, including a large ballroom and dungeon. At one time the castle was open to the public for tours. Mom and Dad visited. According to the internet, the Castle is currently available for weddings, private parties and other special events.

Unfortunately in 2020, the castle was purchased by a far right (anti-immigration) group called VDARE, who is using it for their headquarters. According to the Southern Poverty Law Center (article retrieved September 18, 2024), VDARE has suspended its operations due to legal difficulties. However, the owners of the castle plan to continue hosting events, including conferences. Guess we can't visit the castle. Too bad. It would be cool to see it decorated for Christmas, But, I don't want my money supporting white supremacists.