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Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site: A Glimpse into Missouri's Past

Discover early 20th-century living at Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site near Sedalia, Missouri; tours, trails, and history await.

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Explore the eclectic 31-room Bothwell Lodge, built by John Homer Bothwell between 1897 and 1928. This state-owned historic site near Sedalia, Missouri, offers tours (when available), hiking, and a unique look into early 20th-century living.

A brief summary to Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site

Local tips

  • Check the official website or call ahead to confirm tour availability, as tours are currently suspended due to construction.
  • Explore the Stonyridge Trail, a scenic hiking path that winds through the wooded areas surrounding the lodge.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at the site's designated picnic areas.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site is located approximately 6 miles north of Sedalia, Missouri. From Sedalia, take US-65 North. Follow US-65 N to Bothwell State Park Rd. The entrance to the historic site will be on your left. Parking is available on-site. There are no fees for parking.

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Discover more about Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site

Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site, located north of Sedalia, Missouri, preserves the 31-room, 12,000-square-foot summer home of Sedalia attorney John Homer Bothwell. Built between 1897 and 1928, the lodge showcases an eclectic combination of architectural styles with Craftsman influences. John Bothwell, a prominent figure in Sedalia, purchased the property in 1896, naming it Stonyridge Farm. He sought to preserve the wooded hilltop and restore its native vegetation. Bothwell, a bachelor, used the lodge as a summer retreat and a place to entertain family and friends. One of the lodge's unique features was an attempt to use a natural cave for air conditioning. The limestone used in the lodge's construction was quarried on-site. After Bothwell's death in 1929, the estate was managed by the Bothwell Lodge Club until it was offered to the state of Missouri in 1969. The state accepted the property in 1974 and developed it into a historic site. Today, visitors can tour the lodge (when tours are available) and explore the natural beauty of Stonyridge Farm via hiking trails. The Stonyridge Trail passes by rock quarries, a stone gazebo, and a stone shelter. **Please note that lodge tours are currently unavailable due to construction.** Check the official website or call ahead for updates.

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