Fifth Avenue estate sold at sheriff's sale now hosts events

A historic mansion on Fifth Avenue in Shadyside has reopened as a hotel and event space after decades of changing ownership and a major fire. The building, known as Mansions on Fifth, stands on what locals once called Millionaire's Row.

The structure was built in the early 1900s for Willis McCook, who served as legal counsel to Henry Clay Frick. McCook and his wife Mary raised ten children in the home. The estate included a billiards room, separate lounges for men and women, and a personal chapel where the family attended Mass every weekend. Before the main construction was complete, the couple built a smaller house on the property as an engagement gift for their daughter Bessie.

By the 1930s, the McCook family struggled to maintain the large property. The Allegheny County Sheriff’s Department seized the estate due to back taxes. In 1949, the Bonavita family bought the house at a sheriff’s sale for $28,000. To help cover maintenance costs, the Bonavitas rented several rooms to students from the Carnegie Institute of Technology. Marissa Musico, director of event sales at Mansions on Fifth, said she has heard rumors that renters included Andy Warhol, Albert Brooks, and Shirley Jones.

A fire broke out on the upper floors in 2004, causing serious damage. Workers rebuilt those sections, though one unique triangular closet survived. After restoration, the building opened its doors as a hotel and event space in January 2010.

The original stone foundation remains visible in the basement. Musico showed visitors the original wine cellar, which is still well-stocked. Although rumors persist about secret underground tunnels, she has not been able to find any. The men’s smoking lounge has been painted in brighter colors and now serves as a preparation space for brides planning on-site weddings.

The property continues to operate as a venue for locals and visitors. Interested parties can book a night in one of the rooms through the facility's website.