Overholser Mansion | Oklahoma City

Information

Landmark: Overholser Mansion
City: Oklahoma City
Country: USA Oklahoma
Continent: North America

Overholser Mansion, Oklahoma City, USA Oklahoma, North America

The Overholser Mansion is a historic house museum located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. It is recognized as the first home in Oklahoma City to have electricity.

Visual Characteristics

The Overholser Mansion is a three-story, 20-room residence constructed primarily of brick and stone. It exhibits a distinctive Renaissance Revival architectural style. The exterior features a red tile roof, arched windows, and decorative stonework. The interior includes ornate woodwork, stained glass, and original furnishings.

Location & Access Logistics

The mansion is situated at 405 NW 15th Street, approximately 1.5 miles northwest of the Oklahoma City central business district. Access is via NW 15th Street, which connects to Classen Drive. Limited street parking is available in the vicinity. Public transport options include the EMBARK bus system; Route 008 stops within a 0.2-mile walk.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Overholser Mansion was completed in 1905. It was designed by architect George P. Washburn for Henry Overholser, a prominent Oklahoma City businessman and real estate developer. The original purpose was to serve as the Overholser family residence.

Key Highlights & Activities

Guided tours of the mansion are offered daily. These tours detail the architecture, history, and the lives of the Overholser family. Visitors can observe the original electrical system, including a rare early electric elevator. Photography is permitted without flash.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site for visitors. Limited shaded areas are present on the grounds. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable in the area. No food vendors are located directly at the mansion; dining options are available in the nearby Uptown district.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal interior lighting during tours, midday visits are recommended. The months of April, May, September, and October offer moderate temperatures suitable for exploring the grounds. Weekday mornings typically have fewer visitors.

Facts & Legends

Henry Overholser was instrumental in bringing electricity to Oklahoma City, and the mansion was designed to showcase this innovation. A specific detail often highlighted is the original dumbwaiter system, which was later converted to accommodate one of the earliest residential elevators in the state.