Historic Thornewood Castle, Washington
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Lakewood, Washington, stands Historic Thornewood Castle, a testament to a bygone era of opulence and architectural grandeur. This magnificent estate, more than just a building, is a living chronicle of history, bearing witness to fortunes made, lives lived, and echoes of the past that some say linger to this day. Beyond its physical presence, Historic Thornewood Castle is steeped in lore, whispering tales of resident spirits and unexplained occurrences, adding another layer of intrigue to its already captivating story.
The story of Historic Thornewood Castle begins with Chester Thorne, a prominent figure in the early development of the Pacific Northwest. As one of the founders of the Port of Tacoma, Thorne possessed the vision and resources to realize a dream: to create an authentic English-style manor in the heart of Washington State. Construction began in 1908 and spanned nearly four years, culminating in the completion of the 27,000-square-foot masterpiece in 1911.
Thorne spared no expense in bringing his vision to life. He enlisted the expertise of renowned architect Kirkland Cutter, celebrated for his work during the late 19th century, and collaborated closely with his wife, Anna, to ensure every detail reflected their refined tastes. The result was an exquisite blend of English Tudor and Gothic architectural styles, a true castle boasting an impressive 54 rooms, including 28 bedrooms and 22 bathrooms.
What truly sets Historic Thornewood Castle apart is its commitment to authenticity. Thorne, captivated by the grandeur of old English estates, went to extraordinary lengths to incorporate genuine historical elements into his new home. He acquired centuries-old materials from England, including 400-year-old bricks salvaged from a dismantled English castle. To further enhance the castle’s aesthetic, over 100 pieces of stained glass, dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries and originally adorning English churches once owned by an English duke, were carefully integrated into the design.
The logistical feat of transporting these precious materials across the Atlantic and around Cape Horn to the Pacific Northwest was a testament to Thorne’s dedication. He commissioned three ships specifically for the task, ensuring the safe arrival of the bricks, wood, and windows that would form the foundation of his dream. The castle’s structural integrity was also paramount. Solid three-foot-thick foundations, 18-inch floors of concrete and cinder, and 10-inch walls provided a robust framework, while hand-hewn woodwork crafted from ancient English oak, secured with solid wood dowels, added a touch of timeless elegance.
Beyond the castle walls, the estate encompassed 100 acres, 37 of which were transformed into formal English gardens. A landscape architectural firm was hired to create meticulously designed spaces, requiring a dedicated team of 28 gardeners to maintain their pristine condition. Inside the castle, a staff of 40 servants catered to the needs of Chester, Anna, and their daughter, Anita, ensuring a life of unparalleled comfort and luxury.
During its heyday, Historic Thornewood Castle was a hub of social activity, hosting lavish garden parties and elegant dinners. Its guest list included esteemed figures such as Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft, further solidifying the castle’s place in the region’s social and political landscape. Chester Thorne reveled in his creation for over a decade, leaving an indelible mark on the Seattle/Tacoma area through his business ventures and philanthropic endeavors. He passed away on October 16, 1927, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and community service.
Following Chester’s death, Anna Thorne stepped into a leadership role, serving on the board of directors of her husband’s bank and continuing his philanthropic work. She also oversaw the management of the castle and its gardens. Their daughter, Anita, along with her husband, Cadwallader Corse, and their son, resided at Thornewood, ensuring the family’s continued presence at the estate.
Later in life, Anita divorced Cadwallader and remarried Major General David C. Stone. When General Stone was transferred to the Panama Canal Zone, Anna found Thornewood too large and solitary, prompting her to move to a smaller Georgian-style home in Tacoma. However, upon the Stones’ return to Thornewood, Anna rejoined them, spending her final years in the castle and passing away peacefully in 1954.
In 1959, after General Stone’s death, Anita sold the castle and its surrounding land to Harold St. John, who subsequently subdivided the property into 30 home sites. Only four acres, including the castle and 110 feet of lakefront, were preserved as a single parcel. Over the ensuing decades, the castle changed hands several times until it was acquired by its current owners, Wayne and Deanna Robinson, in 2000.
Today, Historic Thornewood Castle stands as a beautifully restored country inn, offering guests a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Its storied past, however, is not confined to the history books. Many believe the castle is home to several spirits, remnants of lives deeply intertwined with its walls. The most frequently reported apparition is that of Chester Thorne himself, often sighted in his former room, where light bulbs are inexplicably found unscrewed.
Others have claimed to see Anna Thorne sitting in the window seat of her room, now the bridal suite, gazing out at the gardens. The suite features an original mirror from Anna’s time, and some guests have reported catching a glimpse of her reflection within its depths. Another poignant tale involves the tragic drowning of a former owner’s grandchild in the lake. Visitors have occasionally reported seeing a small child standing alone by the water’s edge, only to disappear upon closer inspection.
Recognized for its historical significance, Historic Thornewood Castle is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Guests can explore the castle’s meticulously maintained grounds, including the stunning half-acre sunken English garden, and enjoy recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, and boating on American Lake. Whether drawn by its architectural splendor, its rich history, or the allure of its ghostly legends, Historic Thornewood Castle offers a captivating experience that transcends time.