In recent years, I have posted several stories regarding the former Yates Castle located on what is now the campus of Upstate. It is quite possibly my favorite/the saddest story. The castle was designed in 1852 by James Renwick Jr., one of the most successful architects in America during the 19th century (note Renwick Avenue nearby). Construction on the castle was completed in 1855. The castle consisted of 24 rooms, each with its own fireplace. The interior had an extravagant design full of ornate features and imported fixtures. The grounds included bridges, a gazebo, a barn and gatehouse. The castle eventually became property of SU and housed various departments. In 1953, the castle was vacated by the university and in 1954 demolished to make room for expansion of the medical school. The stone wall that remains on Irving Avenue is a portion of the east wall that once lined the perimeter of the estate. We did have an opportunity to see the doors from the castle and a mirror that have been preserved and are in storage at SU.