Back in 1890, the McNeal Mansion stood as a symbol of grandeur, serving as the family home for industrialist Andrew McNeal in Burlington, New Jersey. With its expansive 10,000-square-foot layout, it was among the most splendid residences in the region. However, in present times, the once-stately mansion has fallen into disrepair, barely maintaining its structure amidst the passage of time.
Photographer Richard Lewis, a native of New Jersey, stumbled upon the decaying estate in 2016 and was immediately drawn to its state of decay. His interest in capturing images of dilapidated structures was sparked when he learned about the impending demolition of an abandoned Nike missile site near his home, motivating him to document its existence before it vanished forever. In a 2021 interview with Insider, he shared his desire to preserve these sites through his photography, ensuring their history would endure.
“I realized that I had a purpose in photographing these abandoned buildings, and that purpose is to pay homage to and safeguard their history. Many of these neglected places, in their current state, are bound to vanish,” he explained.
Now, let’s take a peek inside the deteriorating McNeal Mansion, a mere echo of its once-magnificent self.
Andrew McNeal established his reputation by founding the McNeal Pike and Foundry Company in 1866. Utilizing the success of his flourishing enterprise, he constructed an expansive mansion on the scenic banks of the Delaware River. In 1899, the United States Cast Iron Pipe and Foundry Company, later known as US Pipe, acquired McNeal’s company. Along with the business, they also took possession of the grand mansion, repurposing it as the headquarters for the conglomerate.
After Andrew McNeal vacated the mansion, it underwent a transformation into a corporate space and ceased to function as a residence. Serving as the headquarters for the pipe company, the mansion remained in this capacity until 1953, when the company relocated its operations to Alabama, leaving the grand building deserted.
Photographer Richard Lewis observed the unique architectural evolution of the mansion, noting its elaborate central design contrasted with the expansive, open wings utilized as office spaces. This historical insight added depth to Lewis’s photographic exploration of the structure.
Abandoned for years, the property was eventually sold by the company to the municipality in 1975, according to reports from the Burlington County Times.
Over the years, numerous property developers have expressed interest in restoring the mansion, but all efforts to breathe new life into it have fallen short.
In 1987, a developer acquired the property with ambitious plans to convert it into a conference center, hotel, and restaurant. Unfortunately, these plans never came to fruition, resulting in the property changing hands multiple times.
Tragedy struck in 2001 when sections of the mansion were engulfed in flames, exacerbating its state of decay. More recently, in 2021, local reports highlighted additional fires at the property. These incidents resulted in the destruction of two buildings and damage to two others. Fortunately, the main building remained unscathed, according to CBS News.
In 2016, the city of Burlington took action and acquired the mansion with the aim of transforming part of the property into a restaurant.
“There’s tremendous potential here. It has the opportunity to become something truly exceptional,” remarked Jim Kennedy, the city’s economic development and redevelopment consultant, in an interview with the Burlington County Times.
It was during a visit to explore the restaurant concept that local photographer Richard Lewis first became intrigued by the historic estate. While attending a fundraising event hosted by developers at a nearby bar and restaurant, Lewis and his wife caught sight of the mansion from their seats.
Lewis, who had a good relationship with the city manager, expressed his interest in photographing the property.
“He mentioned that a historian had taken some photos with their phone but didn’t venture inside,” Lewis recounted to Insider. “Since he knew I was insured, he offered me free access if I signed a liability waiver. I was granted permission to explore and photograph the mansion at my leisure, with the condition that I shared the images with the city and the Burlington County Historical Society.”
However, the mansion’s deteriorating condition poses a safety risk for trespassers and urban explorers. Lewis stressed the importance of caution, stating, “The McNeal mansion, being a stone building, is relatively stable structurally. In other abandoned buildings with wooden frames, I’m cautious about where I step to avoid potential hazards.”
Despite its state of decay, the mansion’s allure continues to captivate individuals like Lewis, who strive to document its history before it fades into obscurity.
Safety is Richard Lewis’s top priority when photographing the McNeal Mansion, and obtaining permission is the essential first step. Lewis takes extensive precautions, donning protective gear such as a respirator, hard hat, and steel-toed boots to ensure his safety in case of any unforeseen accidents. He also makes sure to inform local law enforcement of his presence and estimated duration of stay.
“When you share images on social media, you’re automatically associated with the ‘urban ex’ crowd,” Lewis explained to Insider. “I prioritize getting permission because it helps build a positive reputation for my work. Eventually, people start approaching me to photograph locations.”
Upon discovering the property, Lewis was struck by the extensive damage it had incurred, likely due to neglect and past fires.
“The level of destruction at the McNeal Mansion was shocking. It’s one of the most devastated buildings I’ve encountered. Despite the intricate woodwork, there was little left that could be salvaged. However, I was surprised by the resilience of the building itself. Despite the devastation, its solid stone structure remained intact.”
While plans for the property’s development have stalled, officials strongly advise against unauthorized visits.
“Entering the McNeal Mansion without permission is a serious safety concern,” warned Police Chief Alan Snow in a 2017 statement to the Burlington County Times. “These properties pose significant risks, with potential hazards such as collapsing floors and sharp debris. Trespassers will face legal consequences to the fullest extent.”
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The once magnificent McNeal Mansion, accompanied by a separate carriage house, now bears the scars of neglect and decay. Nature has reclaimed the entire estate, with debris and moss encroaching upon most of its rooms. Despite its worn appearance, traces of its former grandeur linger, providing a fleeting glimpse into its illustrious past.
Photographer Richard Lewis, who documented the mansion in 2016, was taken aback to find much of the roof still intact, albeit with some sections caving in. However, by 2021, the majority of the roof had succumbed to fire damage. Despite its decline, the mansion still boasts remnants of its original grand features, such as fireplaces and arched doorways scattered throughout the property. For now, perhaps the most fitting tribute to the historic McNeal Mansion is through photography, capturing its essence before it meets its fate with demolition.
“I found my artistic voice while photographing these abandoned properties,” Lewis reflected. “I came to realize that this isn’t merely local history; it’s New Jersey history that must be safeguarded. Despite efforts at restoration, the mansion is now destined for demolition.”
Despite its current condition, a faint echo of its past grandeur, the McNeal Mansion defies the odds by remaining upright despite decades of abandonment. Despite enduring multiple fires, the mansion now presents an opportunity for developers interested in either restoring it to its former glory or choosing the path of demolition.
“As far as I’m aware, entering the mansion has become exceedingly perilous due to the threat of collapsing floors,” Lewis elucidated. “The roof has entirely caved in… Despite its once majestic allure, the mansion now languishes in a state of profound disrepair.”
