The much anticipated book about Hartwood Acres has finally been released - aptly titled "Reflections of Hartwood" this is the must have book for friends and visitors to this beautiful estate. Nestled in the beautiful foothills of Allegheny County in Western Pa., this amazing estate features rolling hills, walking trails meandering through an old growth forest as well as a stable complex and the centerpiece of the estate - the 33 room English Tudor style mansion built between 1927-1929 for John and Mary Flinn Lawrence.
The 192 page book contains 179 images - many in full color - that were taken from personal family archives, the Hartwood archives, family movies as well as contributions from different photographers. Many of the images have never been seen before and are guaranteed to pique the interest of Hartwood visitors, local history buffs or those that have an interest in architecture. Topics covered in the book include the courtship and marriage of estate owners John and Mary Flinn Lawrence, the purchase of the property of what is now known as Hartwood Acres, as well as the design and building of the stable complex and mansion. Photos of the mansion and stable complex under construction, taken by John W. Lawrence, are shown in the book.
The first chapter in the book details the life and times of Mary Flinn Lawrence's father - magnate and Senator William Flinn, because if there was no William Flinn then Hartwood would not have existed. Pa. State Route 8 that is near the estate is named after Senator Flinn. Another chapter cover stories about the adopted sons Johnny and Billy Lawrence. You will read in Johnny's own words what is what like to live in the mansion and his thoughts and stories about each room of the mansion.
The book also offers a glimpse into the day to day life of a working farm and equestrian estate. The author interviewed several people that either lived or worked at the estate. You will read what it was like to work on the farm and the upkeep needed of the "Big House" as the employees called the mansion. The estate's master gardener Stanley Preston is discussed as well as Merle "Brownie" Brown, the master of the fox hunt as well as the stable master. There is also a listing of names of known Hartwood employees and their roles at the estate.
"Reflections of Hartwood" offers a glimpse into a life of privilege and social standing and is a fascinating look into one of Pittsburgh's early influential and powerful families. The book was written by Jeffrey S. Lawrence - a grandson of John and Mary Flinn Lawrence and considered a "Hartwood Insider".
Book specifications:
Book is 6" x 9"
192 pages in length.
179 total images - includes both color and black and white.
Book weight is 19 oz.
ISBN 978-0-692-75133-6
The book is available for online purchase exclusively from this site through PayPal's safe and secure server. Please use the "Buy Now" button below to be taken to PayPal's site to complete the transaction. We offer fast shipment via Priority mail, you should receive your book within 3 business days. The book will be signed by the author. Please email the author at Jeff@reflectionsofhartwoodbook.com with any questions, you will receive a reply within one business day.
Our book is no longer available on Amazon.com.
Please use the "Buy Now" button below to order the book via PayPal's secure server. Most orders arrive within 1-2 days of ordering via Priority shipping.
Reflections of Hartwood book is now available at these fine retail outlets:
Hartwood Acres mansion gift shop
200 Hartwood Acres
Hampton Township, Pa. 15238
Phone: 412-767-9200
Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve
614 Dorseyville Road
Pittsburgh, Pa. 15238
Phone: 412-963-6100
Mystery Lovers Bookshop
514 Allegheny River Blvd.
Oakmont, Pa. 15139
Phone: 412-828-4877
Hartwood Acres mansion gift shop
200 Hartwood Acres
Hampton Township, Pa. 15238
Phone: 412-767-9200
Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve
614 Dorseyville Road
Pittsburgh, Pa. 15238
Phone: 412-963-6100
Mystery Lovers Bookshop
514 Allegheny River Blvd.
Oakmont, Pa. 15139
Phone: 412-828-4877