Quigley's Castle: The Ozarks' Strangest Dwelling

Quigley's Castle, often called "The Ozarks' Strangest Dwelling," is a testament to one woman's dream of bringing nature indoors. Elise Quigley, the visionary behind this unique home, began construction in 1943 with her husband, Albert, using lumber sourced directly from their property. What started as a simple farmhouse evolved into a stunning display of creativity and a deep connection to the natural world. The exterior of Quigley's Castle is adorned with a lifetime collection of rocks, crystals, fossils, and arrowheads meticulously placed by Elise herself. This labor of love took three years to complete and gives the house its distinctive, eye-catching appearance. Inside, the home features a unique design with a four-foot-wide, two-story space between the outer and inner walls, creating a natural environment for tropical plants to flourish. These plants have grown to impressive heights, reaching the second-story ceiling and blurring the lines between indoors and out. Surrounding the castle are lush gardens boasting over 400 varieties of perennials, wildflowers, and antique roses. Elise's artistic touch extends to the garden, where visitors can discover towering rock pillars, whimsical sculptures, and "bottle trees" made from her husband's bottle collection. The gardens also feature secluded benches, a lily pond, and bird baths, inviting guests to relax and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Quigley's Castle is more than just a house; it's a living work of art that reflects Elise Quigley's passion for nature and her unique creative vision.