In the heart of Des Moines, nestled among rolling hills and picturesque gardens, stands the Rollins Mansion—a striking Tudor Revival estate that has been a beacon of elegance and architectural brilliance for 100 years. As we enter 2025, we invite you to join us in celebrating a century of history, resilience, and grandeur at the Rollins Mansion Centennial Celebration.
This year-long tribute honors not only the magnificent home that has graced our city for a century but also the remarkable Rollins family, whose pioneering spirit and contributions helped shape Des Moines. From its storied past to its present-day role as a premier venue, the mansion remains a testament to vision, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty.
A Storied Past: The Legacy of the Rollins Mansion
Built between 1925 and 1927, the Rollins Mansion was commissioned by Ralph “Big Ralph” Rollins, a prosperous businessman who made his fortune through Rollins Hosiery Mills. Designed by the renowned Des Moines architects Byron Boyd and Herbert Moore, the mansion embodies Old World charm with a blend of English country estate influences.
The estate is adorned with 16th-century ship beams, ceiling panels from an inn where William Shakespeare once performed, and stained-glass windows designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Every detail—from the hand-carved stone fireplaces to the manicured English gardens—tells a story of ambition, artistry, and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship.
For decades, the Rollins Mansion has been a place of celebration—a private home turned premier venue for weddings, galas, and gatherings that bring people together in a setting of timeless elegance. Now, 100 years later, we embark on a year-long tribute to this extraordinary landmark.
A Year of Celebration: Honoring 100 Years of Elegance
As we commemorate 100 years of the Rollins Mansion, we invite the community to step back in time and celebrate its history through a series of exclusive events.
From gourmet dinners and fun parties to author readings and live music, the mansion will host a series of curated experiences that honor its legacy and ensure that the spirit of the Rollins Mansion remains alive for the next century.
Preserving the Legacy for Future Generations
Today, the Rollins Mansion stands as a living piece of history, carefully preserved by a team dedicated to maintaining its architectural integrity and cultural significance. With input and guidance from Ellen Rollins, granddaughter of Big Ralph, the estate continues to honor its roots while evolving to welcome new generations.
As we embark on this landmark anniversary year, we invite you to be part of this incredible journey. Whether attending a historical tour, an elegant dinner, or a lively celebration, you are contributing to the next chapter of Rollins Mansion’s history.
Stay updated on all upcoming events and centennial celebrations by visiting our events page and following us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.)
Here’s to 100 years of grandeur—and to the many more yet to come. 🏰✨
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