Raney-Jameson Mansion - New Castle PA

This Queen Anne-style mansion, designed by architect S. W. Foulke, was built in the North Hill section of New Castle in 1890. It was the home of Leander Raney (1837-1907), a local industrialist involved in the milling, furnace, and railroad industries. He sold the home in late 1907 to wealthy banker David Jameson (1856-1927), who resided there until his death. His daughter Elizabeth Jameson McCreary later donated the home to Jameson Hospital in 1943 and it was converted into a residence for nurses. In the early 1960’s it became known as Castle Manor, a personal care facility for the mentally ill. It was ravaged by a fire on Saturday, June 13, 1998, and shuttered for well over a decade. The resident who started the fire was sentenced to 30 months in prison. The Goodge family is currently restoring the home for eventual use as an events center. (c1970) Full Size

Leander Raney, born in Edinburg, was known for his roller milling businesses. He was also a partner in various ventures including the Aetna Furnace and the New Castle & Franklin Railroad. He sold the home and moved to Cleveland in October 1907 to go into business with his son, but died rather unexpectedly a month later. (c1900)

David Jameson, born in Warren, Ohio, became a successful lawyer, banker, realtor, and businessman. He was deeply involved in civic affairs and personally funded – in honor of his late son – the creation of what became Jameson Memorial Hospital. Jameson unfortunately died in March 1927, a few months before construction of the hospital commenced. (c1920)

The old Raney-Jameson mansion on North Jefferson Street is currently undergoing renovations. (c2013)