Ohio River Scenic Byway
Hillforest Mansion, IN

Thomas Gaff, a prominent industrialist and civic leader, built this home between 1852 and 1856 on a 10-acre tract. Gaff is said to have launched 33 businesses which included breweries, steamboat lines, general stores, a cotton plantation, a silver mine, and a coke company.

Gaff used the finest materials money could buy in his spacious, three-level home. For instance, the parquet flooring is Circassian walnut and the keyhole covers are porcelain.

The interior is highlighted by elaborate, Italian-molded 18-inch-wide plaster borders, bay windows, Belter-type Victorian furniture, a melodeon, a Fisher piano, Smilie engravings, and iron fireplace mantels.

The belvedere provides a sweeping view of the river and still houses Gaff's large brass telescope.

Although its style is usually classified as Italian Renaissance, this home's style is sometimes said to be "Steamboat Gothic" because it does resemble a pilot house with its circular porches, coupled columns, and round cupola.