Mt. Ida

Jan 12, 1995

In the early 19 th century, Charles Timanus Jr., principal builder of the Patapsco Female Institute, erected this yellow stucco house for William Ellicott, grandson of Andrew Ellicott, a founder of Ellicott’s Mills. Mount Ida is the last home in the historic district of Ellicott City built for a member of the Ellicott family. After William died and until 1878 Mount Ida was home to Judge John Snowden Tyson, and his three maiden daughters. Ida was the last to live in this lovely home.

After her death at age 90 the house was purchased by the Louis T. Clarks who lived at Mt Ida for 29 years. Threatened with falling into ruin after Mr. Clark died, Charles E. Miller purchased Mt. Ida and had it stabilized. When he passed away in 1979 it passed to his son Paul L. Miller. The mansion then changed directions. From a residence to commercial usage. It housed a newspaper and other businesses. It was later leased to the Friends of the PFI and Historic Ellicott City Inc. for their headquarters.

The show house also celebrated the opening of the stabilized ruins of the Patapsco Female Institute. Mt. Ida was sold and operated as a hotel for a short time. It has since been purchased by the county.

Mount Ida is located at 3691 Sarahs Lane, Ellicott City, MD. Mount Ida Is listed as a Maryland Historical Trust Property. The show house ran from September 30 to October 29. The Chairman was Patricia Fleegle. Approximately 4000 people attended.