We’ve all seen it on Winchester Road on our way out to Costco — that beautiful big brick home nestled down a long driveway right near the I-75 interchange.
It was announced Monday that the current owners of the Meadowcrest Mansion — Cowgill Inc. — have filed for a demolition permit for the 1920s Neo-Georgian house.
Before we bid farewell, let’s take a look back on the life once lived on Hamburg Place Farm.
History
Late 1800s, early 1900s | Prominent horseman John E. Madden laid down roots on 200 acres along US 60 — building what we now call Hamburg Place.
1929 | After his passing, John E. leaves Hamburg Place to his two sons — Joseph McKee + John Edward. Edward moved into the original home on the property.=
1931 | Joseph decides to build a “$400,000 mansion” on part of the property for him and his family. Thus, Meadowcrest was born. The sprawling nine-bedroom, seven-bathroom history buff’s dream home featured a library, a large dining room, and an eight-car garage. It was designed + built by prominent local architect Robert McMeekin who also designed Keeneland.
1932 | Joseph dies and leaves the house to his young wife Ruth and their two sons. Ruth sold most of the land to her brother-in-law Edward. She kept Meadowcrest + 100 acres where she and the boys lived for the remainder of her life.
1964 | I-75 is built splitting the property in two. Ruth was awarded $40,000 for the damages. The house remained with the family until the end of the 20th century where it has sat vacant ever since.
2017 | Meadowcrest was used as a filming location for “House of the Witch” produced by Lexington native Bryan Sexton.
Future
Cowgill has yet to release specific plans for the 86-acre plot, but does have this rendered flyover.
