2009: Belvidere Mansion

Claremore, Oklahoma

The Belvidere Mansion built in 1907 is a unique Victorian three story mansion located two blocks east of downtown Claremore. The 3,000 square foot third floor ballroom has been completely restored. Blue sky and clouds adorn the vaulted ceiling which is crowned by an old-fashioned sky-light. Much of the trim and woodwork used in the mansion was brought from the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis. The walls are wainscoted marble and pressed-tin. Sliding pocket door and fireplaces accent several rooms. Attracted by Claremore’s two railroads, John M. Bayless brought his wife, Mary, and six children to Indian Territory from Cassville, Missouri in 1901. By 1902, Bayless started building his castle-like mansion located at Fourth and Chickasaw. Unfortunately, Mr. Bayless died before Belvidere was completed in 1907.