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History of Olmsted Manor Retreat Center
Olmsted Manor Retreat and Renewal Center has been operating as an adult retreat center since 1969, when the family of George W. Olmsted donated their family estate to the Western Pennsylvania Conference of the United Methodist Church.
The Olmsted family began negotiations to transfer the estate to the Western Pennsylvania Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church in 1968. On November 1, 1969, Bishop Roy C. Nichols dedicated Olmsted Manor as an Adult Retreat and Renewal Center. To honor the Olmsted family, the Retreat Center has adopted the stag’s head, which is the Olmsted family’s crest, as its logo.
Four directors have served since the dedication. The Rev. Herbert E. Boyd was appointed the first resident director. Under his guidance and personal care, the property was returned to a place of activity and beauty. In June of 1976, the Rev. James M. Legro was appointed executive director and given broad responsibilities for developing programming. On October 2, 1976, the dedication of Groves Lodge took place, providing modern accommodations and dining facilities.
Rev. John Miller served as the director from 1979 to 2001 and was instrumental in the expansion of the facilities with the construction of Hickman Hall, the director's residence and redecoration of the Manor House. An addition to Groves Lodge, designed for accessibility, was completed in 1997. Many programs and events were instituted during Rev. Miller's leadership. A labyrinth has been constructed on the lower grounds in honor of Rev. Miller and his many years of service to Olmsted Manor.
Jody Larson currently serves as Executive Director of Olmsted Manor. He has been involved in the workings of Olmsted Manor since 1979, and has overseen much of the new construction and grounds restoration of the retreat center The staff and board of Olmsted Manor seek to fulfill our vision: to provide Christian hospitality in a hostile world. As people pass through the Olmsted gates, our guests find a sense of refuge as they seek to renew their spirit. |
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To read about the Olmsted family:
To read about the history of the Manor House and the grounds:
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Olmsted Manor Retreat Center
PO Box 8, Ludlow, PA 16333
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