Windswept Mansion

Unveiling Windswept Mansion: The Abandoned Jewel of Narragansett, Rhode Island

Once a symbol of coastal grandeur, the Windswept Mansion in Narragansett, Rhode Island, now rests in silent decay. This once-proud estate, now abandoned and shrouded in mystery, stands as a testament to the passage of time and the relentless pull of the elements. Each creaking floorboard, peeling piece of wallpaper, and dust-laden windowpane whispers a story of opulence long past. For urban explorers, it’s a tantalizing invitation to step back into a world on the brink of vanishing—if only through the power of immersive technology.

Now, you can uncover the secrets of the Windswept Mansion like never before through these exceptional 360-degree images. Every subtle detail, from the intricate moldings in the grand foyer to the overgrown gardens encroaching on shattered windows, unfolds with astonishing clarity. These panoramic views allow you to virtually wander abandoned corridors and peer into hidden rooms, all without leaving the comfort of your own home. Dive in, explore, and prepare to be captivated by what remains of this once-majestic property.

Image by: Brandon Ellis

Image by: Ramiro Pérez

Nestled along the rocky coastline of Narragansett, Rhode Island, the remains of Windswept Mansion beckon adventurers and history enthusiasts alike. A grandiose estate turned eerie ruin, Windswept Mansion has become a must-visit destination for urban explorers eager to uncover the stories hidden within its crumbling walls. From its opulent beginnings to its tragic end, the history of Windswept Mansion offers a window into the Gilded Age, the quirks of its notable owners, and the inevitable passage of time.

The Birth of Windswept Mansion

Built in 1895 by Edmund Davis, the grandson of Perry Davis, creator of the widely successful “Perry Davis’s Vegetable Pain Killer,” Windswept Mansion was an extravagant summer home. Located near the shore with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, the mansion lived up to its name with its breezy, coastal charm and imposing architecture.

With 21 rooms, including five grand bedrooms, servants’ quarters, a state-of-the-art kitchen, and multiple living spaces, the mansion was a marvel of its time. Its elegance and size were symbols of the Davis family’s immense wealth, derived from the international success of their patent medicine, which was one of the first widely marketed pain remedies of the 19th century.

For decades, the mansion served as a private retreat for the Davis family, hosting lavish parties and providing a tranquil getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Changing Hands and New Roles

By 1939, after more than 40 years of Davis family ownership, the estate was sold to Paul and Alfred Castiglione, two enterprising restaurateurs. They transformed Windswept Mansion into an upscale dining establishment called Cobb’s by the Sea. Known for its fresh seafood and exquisite fine dining, the restaurant became a popular spot for locals and vacationers alike.

Diners could enjoy boiled lobster for $1.75 and broiled filet mignon for $2.25—a touch of luxury in a picturesque seaside setting. However, this new chapter for Windswept Mansion would be relatively short-lived, and the property changed hands again in 1952, marking the beginning of its decline.

Abandonment and Decay

The Lownes family purchased the property in 1952 but left it unoccupied. Over time, the empty mansion became a target for vandals and arsonists. A series of fires ravaged the once-stately home, leaving it a hollow shell of its former glory.

In 1974, after the damage became irreparable, the remains of Windswept Mansion were demolished, bringing an official end to its storied existence as a standing structure. In 1980, to prevent any further private development, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management acquired the land, ensuring its preservation as part of the public Black Point Trail system.

Exploring the Ruins

Today, only the stone remnants of the mansion’s carriage house survive, blending into the rugged landscape of Black Point. The site has become a hotspot for urban explorers drawn to its haunting beauty and historical significance.

Visitors can access the area by following the Black Point Trail, a scenic coastal path that begins at a trailhead off Ocean Road, near Scarborough State Beach. The hike is relatively easy, offering spectacular ocean views along the way. The ruins themselves exude a sense of mystery, their weathered stones standing as a testament to time’s relentless march.

Tips for Visiting

• Trail Access: Start at the Black Point Trailhead off Ocean Road.
• Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be uneven.
• Respect the Site: Do not disturb or remove any pieces of the ruins.
• Timing: Early morning or late afternoon visits are ideal for photography.

Why Windswept Mansion Matters

Windswept Mansion’s story captures the spirit of a bygone era. It symbolizes the extravagant lifestyles of America’s Gilded Age elites, while also reflecting the impermanence of human endeavor. Its connection to Perry Davis’s “Vegetable Pain Killer” offers a fascinating glimpse into early American industry and the roots of modern pharmaceutical advertising.

For urban explorers, the ruins serve as both a destination and a reminder: beneath every abandoned structure lies a history waiting to be uncovered. Windswept Mansion is not just a relic of Narragansett’s past—it is a hauntingly beautiful chapter of Rhode Island’s coastal history.

If you liked this blog post, you might be interested in reading about the Garden of Remembrance in Massachusetts, the Space Shuttle External Tank in Florida, or the abandoned and decaying Community Center in Lovech Bulgaria.

A 360-degree panoramic image captured at the abandoned Windswept Mansion on the coast of Narragansett, Rhode Island. Image by: Brandon Ellis

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Do you have 360-degree panoramic images captured in an abandoned location? Send your images to Abandonedin360@gmail.com. If you choose to go out and do some urban exploring in your town, here are some safety tips before you head out on your Urbex adventure. If you want to start shooting 360-degree panoramic images, you might want to look onto one-click 360-degree action cameras.

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