The potential sale of the historic Penn State Wilkes-Barre campus has sparked concerns over a lack of transparency, as expressed by local state representative Jamie Walsh. The 54-acre property, which features the iconic Hayfield House, is under discussion by Penn State trustees, with a vote on its sale expected soon.
According to Rep. Jamie Walsh, R-Luzerne, “I feel like the entire process from the beginning has not been handled correctly. Community input has not been there.” The finance committee is slated to deliberate the sale on Thursday morning, followed by a scheduled vote on Friday afternoon.
Many individuals with ties to the property are advocating for its preservation. The Hayfield House, once the summer residence of coal magnate John Conyngham and his wife, Bertha, holds sentimental value for the Conyngham family, who recall its past grandeur and the animals that roamed its grounds, including Clydesdale horses.
“It’s a beautiful home and a beautiful campus… Certainly want nothing else but for it to be preserved and maintained,” expressed Frank Conyngham, a relative.
Legislative Changes and Concerns
Last year, Penn State trustees decided to close seven campuses, including Wilkes-Barre, due to financial difficulties and decreasing enrollment. This decision was facilitated by a legislative bill passed in July, removing deed restrictions on campuses like Wilkes-Barre, thereby allowing their sale to private entities.
Rep. Walsh opposed the bill, citing insufficient public engagement. “I felt like this bill was rushed in Harrisburg, without enough public involvement,” he remarked. Concerns linger about the future use of the property and its alignment with local community values.
Jill Schwartz, Chair of the Campus Advisory Board, also mentioned a lack of information regarding the sale, echoing Walsh’s sentiments.
Rich History of Hayfield House
Constructed during the Great Depression, the Hayfield House served as a luxurious retreat for the Conynghams, complete with vast accommodations and an arboretum. The estate was renowned for its diverse fauna, including rare breeds of cattle and horses that contributed to the lineage of today’s Budweiser Clydesdales.
John Conyngham passed away in 1935, and his widow, Bertha, bequeathed the estate to her nephew, Richard Robinson, in 1964. He subsequently donated the property to Penn State, cementing its role as the Wilkes-Barre campus in 1968.
Upcoming Meetings and Public Access
The upcoming finance meeting is scheduled for Thursday at 10:30 a.m., with the full board convening on Friday at 1:30 p.m. Both sessions can be accessed remotely, with relevant links and agendas provided here.
Frank Conyngham remains hopeful for the property’s future, stating, “I know there’s a lot of chatter on the street, and I look forward to hearing the actual news because there’s as many theories as I have fingers, and but I hope it will be maintained.”
