Forsaken Fortunes: Obscenely Opulent Abandoned Structures
11. The Pavilion of the Witch's Hat
Location: Neversink Mountain, Reading, Pennsylvania
Year Established: 1892
Cost: $4.142 million (adjusted for inflation)
In 1892, a collection of upscale, opulent hotels was constructed on Neversink Mountain, with a total investment of $4.142 million (adjusted for inflation). This scenic hiking trail became a popular destination for travelers seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.
During the warmer months, visitors from Philadelphia and New York City would take the train up the hillside to enjoy the refreshing, bucolic country air that Neversink Mountain offered. The hotels provided a luxurious escape, catering to those looking to unwind and immerse themselves in nature.
In conclusion, the Neversink Mountain Hotel and its surrounding area symbolize the allure of nature as a getaway for urban dwellers in the late 19th century. Although the grand hotels may no longer exist, their legacy lives on in the continued appreciation of the mountain's beauty and the outdoor experiences it provides.
The last remnant of 19th-century opulence is now represented by the abandoned stone structure known as "The Witch's Hat." Its unique design, reminiscent of a character's headgear from Halloween, adds an eerie and haunting charm to the landscape.
Despite its abandonment and the severe damage inflicted by arsonists, the Witch's Hat Pavilion still offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains on clear days. This juxtaposition of beauty and decay captivates adventurers and photographers alike, drawing them to explore its storied past.
In conclusion, the Witch's Hat Pavilion serves as a poignant reminder of the grandeur that once characterized the area. While its physical state may have deteriorated, the pavilion continues to evoke a sense of wonder and nostalgia, inviting visitors to appreciate the natural beauty that endures around it.
