Marycliff
Wildwood
Saint Louis County
Frequent travelers down Highway 109 in St. Louis County might be shocked to learn that a sprawling historic estate sits just off the road out of sight. The grand home was completed in 1905 as a summer home for wealthy businessman, Peyton Carr, and was originally known as Woodcliff. Clad with wood shingles and limestone, the home sprawled over 10,000 square feet and contained seven bedrooms and multiple sleeping porches. The 130-acre estate featured a rose garden, pergola, tea house and tennis courts. In 1944, following the death of her husband, Mrs. Carr sold the estate to the Brewers & Malsters Benevolent Association. It was again sold in 1950, this time to the Society of Mary, who gave it the name Marcyliff. The building was expanded to add an additional 17 bedrooms, the expansion bringing the living space up to 12,630 square feet. Marycliff was actively in use by the Marianists as a conference and retreat center for many decades. Priests and Brothers of the Society of Mary resided in Marycliff until 2016 when they were relocated to other Society of Mary residences. Since then, the building has sat vacant. In 2017-2018 a study was undertaken to determine the feasibility of rehabilitating the structure for expanded use as a family retreat center. Plans were developed and funds raised towards a $2.5 million budget. However, after the pandemic struck in 2020, plans for the Marycliff Family lodge were discontinued and in March 2024, the Marianist Province of the United States submitted an application to the City of Wildwood to demolish Marycliff. The Wildwood Historic Preservation Commission made a site visit shortly after the application was submitted and was shocked to discover that preliminary demolition was already underway, including removal of the radiators, some interior paneling, flooring, as well some artwork, whose removal damaged brickwork on the primary living room fireplace. While the City of Wildwood has denied the demolition application and the demolition appears to be on hold for now, the future of this historic site is not yet secure. Without the funds to complete their plans, and unwilling to sell due to the value and beauty of the location, the Marianists see demolition as their only option. By listing Marycliff as a Place in Peril, nominators hope that the Marianists will be encouraged to seek alternative options for the reuse of the historic building.
UPDATE: As of May 2025, the entirety of the Marianist retreat, including Marycliff, was listed for sale. To see more information, visit this link.