Flagstaff
It’s not as big as Xanadu — the opulent mansion at the center of Citizen Kane — but the 13,000-square-foot Riordan Mansion still plays a prominent role in Flagstaff’s history. Brothers Denis, Michael and Timothy Riordan made their fortunes as the owners of the Arizona Lumber and Timber Co. The booming lumber mill helped turn Flagstaff, formerly a gritty railroad town, into an industrial hub. The Riordans went on to bring electricity to Flagstaff and create Upper and Lower Lake Mary, among other endeavors. Michael and Timothy eventually decided to upgrade their living situation in town, so they had two nearly identical homes built atop Kinlichi Knoll. The craftsman-style homes were connected by a “rendezvous room” where the brothers and their families could gather. Today, you can learn about the history of the mansion and the Riordan family on one of several daily tours. Reservations are recommended. And don’t ask any questions about Rosebud.
LOCATION: 409 W. Riordan Road, Flagstaff
CONSTRUCTED: 1903-04
BUILDER: Michael and Timothy Riordan
INFORMATION: Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, 928-779-4395 or azstateparks.com/riordan-mansion