Local Lore
The Lore
The former owner of the home, Bradley Palmer, died at the estate and is buried under the conservatory.
The Truth
The truth is Bradley Palmer did not die at the estate, but instead he passed away at Boston Hospital. His request was that he lie in state at Willow Dale before being taken back to Wilkes-Barre, PA, where he was laid to rest in the family plot.
Hidden Secrets
Due to the historic nature of the home, you can find many hidden details throughout the property. Here are a few of our favorites.
North Wing Entrance
The North Wing Entrance was the original entrance to the home until 1915 when the addition of the great room, dining room, and conservatory were added. The stained glass windows in the vestibule of the North Wing Entrance show an owl and rooster on opposite sides, corresponding with the sun rising in the east and setting in the west.
Secret Storage
Cleverly concealed within the intricate woodwork are several hidden doors that provide access to storage spaces and electrical switches. Have you ever noticed these subtle details?
Great Room Fireplace
The Great Room fireplace has the inscription "Respice, Procpice, Hodie Vive", meaning “Examine the past, Examine the Future, Live for Today.” A moral message as the focal point of a room chiefly used for entertaining the wealthy elite of the North Shore would have reinforced Palmer’s intention for Willow Dale to be a moral home, rather than a center for opulence.
Dining room stained glass window
The Dining Room stained glass window has elaborate details with hidden meanings. One of the most prominent being the Crest of the Palmer family. The etching on the bottom right corner of the dining room is inscribed “Palma Virtuti”, translating to "Palm of Virtue” or “Victory by Virtue", which is a symbol of triumph and victory. “
