History
Built in 1888 by Burton Harvey Campbell, this architectural masterpiece was duplicated from architectural drawings of the “mother” castle which was originally constructed in the foothills of Scotland. But it is more than mortar and limestone, it is the result of one man’s dream and several architects’ expertise.
The mansion remained the property of the Campbells until 1910, when Walter Morris purchased the estate for less than a third of the $90,000+ which it originally cost to build. Fifty years later it became the property of Maye Crumm, who began calling it Crumm Castle. For a period of time it housed the Belle Carter School, an institution which was begun and operated by Crumm. In April, 1973 The Campbell Castle was entered on the National Register of Historic Places as “a building of architectural significance.” However, in the 1970′s the upkeep of The Castle became a constant struggle, and to raise funds for its survival, the 28-room mansion was opened to the public for tours of the main areas.
By 1994 The Castle, an historic and beloved member of the Wichita community, was existing on borrowed time. It was then that Terry and Paula Lowry purchased the property. Out of respect for Campbell and his vision of over 100 years ago, they returned his name to the structure – The Castle Inn Riverside, “The Historic Campbell Castle.” They invested their time, energy, and resources into restoring this majestic structure to its original beauty and splendor. Damaged stones were painstakingly removed and replaced with new stones carved by expert masons. The woodwork and floors have been brought back to their original luster. The roof has been reslated with tiles from Vermont. The electrical and plumbing systems were completely replaced, and the third floor ballroom level was converted into five luxurious suites. The Carriage House, which had been legally condemned by the city and was crumbling, was rebuilt and now houses three suites and the Lowrys’ apartment. What once were structures composed of stone, mortar, wood, and glass, The Castle and Carriage House have now been reconstructed using massive steel beam supports which will fortify this magnificent landmark for scores of years to come.
Please call for room availability and event information.
(316) 263-9300 or Toll Free- (800) 580-1131
Welcome to the Castle Inn Riverside website. We hope you enjoy exploring the site and learning about all the Castle has to offer. We look forward to hosting you and are confident that, whatever the occasion, your stay at the Castle will be a memorable one.
Dr. Terry & Mrs. Paula Lowry
