I’ve been away from the Valley of the Sun for over fifteen years, and don’t get back nearly as often as I’d like, but when I do I sometimes find myself the kind of luxury hotels Arizona is famous for, resorts spread across Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Tempe, that offer comfort, style, and a bit of relaxation. As tempting as it is to stay in the hotel all day, there’s friends to see and places to explore in Phoenix. After living there for years, one place I’ve yet to really see is the Mystery Castle. Near South Mountain Park (head South on Central Avenue, pass Baseline Road, two miles later take a left on Mineral Road), you’ll find this home listed on the Phoenix Historic Property Register.
The owner, Mary Lou Gulley, provides tours of the house built by her father, Boyce Luther Gulley, from October to May (Thursday to Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 4. p.m.), before the desert heat keeps everyone indoors. It’s a good idea to call first to make sure it’s open: 602-268-1581. The story goes that in the 1930s, Gulley left his family, a wife and daughter after a diagnosis of tuberculosis. In Phoenix, he spent fifteen years building the Mystery Castle, which is composed of materials he salvaged from just about everywhere: It’s a home made of auto parts and other junk, with petroglyphs in the wall, and comprised of many rooms (18) and almost as many fireplaces (13), and he was aided in his efforts by several famous people: The living room contains an original sofa from Frank Lloyd Wright, items from John Wayne at the bar. Even politician Barry Goldwater supplied Gulley with furniture.
The entire house serves as one large work of art. The tour is run now by the granddaughter, who acts as guide, telling the family’s story. It’s a destination spot for those who know about it; in the past, it’s doors have seen everyone from Clark Gable, Marilyn Monroe, and President Eisenhower. If you’re in Phoenix, it’s worth it to see this iconic, historic building.
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