Allandale Mansion was the dream home of Ruth and Harvey Brooks. They built and furnished a distinctive home on grounds which were designed by the same man who served as the landscape architect for President Dwight Eisenhower.

Allandale Mansion and its grounds were left to the city by Harvey Brooks when he died in 1969. One of the conditions of his will was that Allandale "shall be open to the public and held for public use and benefit." In 1983, the city government supported a group of citizens in their efforts to renovate the facilities and develop the use of the facility. Since then, Allandale has made steady progress toward meeting the vision of Harvey and Ruth Brooks - in both appearance and use.

The Friends of Allandale was formed in 1989 to support the continuing improvements at Allandale Mansion by a group of people with a focus on developing the beauty of Allandale and creating a distinctive location in the Kingsport area for special events. Since then, this family of Friends has grown to include over 250 members who have supported approximately $175,000 of improvements to the interior, the exterior, and the grounds of Allandale Mansion.

They share their interests in different facets of interior decorating, including draperies, carpets, paint, paintings, and furnishings, to create a beautiful location for many events. Other people contribute their talents to exterior improvements and adding lighting, flowers, walkways and gardens to support the stately image of the estate.

Key Accomplishments

Each year, the Friends of Allandale complete many decorating and grounds projects Some of the more dramatic projects include
•Lighting for the circular drive
•Disclavier piano
•Rose garden
•Art
•Gazebo
•Wildflower garden
• Picnic tables

Through your financial support with the Friends of Allandale, you will participate in the increasing beauty of a Northeast Tennessee landmark Whether your interests lean toward interior design or landscaping or in providing a reminder of the grandeur of the past, you will have the opportunity to pool your talents in a very visible part of our area. Therefore, please complete the attached application and share in the growth of Allandale and a wonderful group of friends.