The Aldridge Mansion on Fairview Avenue

The Aldridge family established their mansion on Fairview Avenue in 1906 after William Aldridge purchased the Victorian residence following his success as a wholesale furniture distributor. Three generations lived there, including William, his wife Eleanor, their children, and later grandchildren who assisted with family affairs. Their income came from furniture supply contracts, warehouse operations, and commercial investments.

Local records describe the brick mansion as a respected neighborhood residence with active parlors, a private office, and regular upkeep. The conservatory, balconies, and formal rooms remained in daily use during the family’s strongest years.

The first warning sign appeared in 1927 when Aldridge Furniture Supply lost several major contracts and began delaying payments to manufacturers. During the economic downturn of the early 1930s, William reduced expenses by dismissing household workers and closing several unused bedrooms on the third floor. Repairs to the copper roof, brick arches, and limestone balconies were postponed as debts increased. After William died in 1932, disagreements among heirs delayed decisions about selling the mansion. By 1934, unpaid taxes and inheritance disputes forced Eleanor and the remaining family members to leave Fairview Avenue.

The Aldridge Mansion was abandoned in 1935 after foreclosure followed years of business decline, unpaid taxes, and unresolved inheritance disputes. No restoration occurred, and no Aldridge descendants returned after leaving Fairview Avenue. Municipal records documented ownership complications and continued deterioration of the vacant mansion. The interior rooms remained closed, with household documents and personal belongings left behind. Over the decades, moisture damage, structural wear, and neglect affected the brick residence. The Victorian-era mansion remains empty on the residential avenue, deteriorating without restoration or confirmed future ownership.