If you’ve lived — or know anyone who’s lived — in Indianapolis for a decent period of time, you’ve no doubt seen or heard about the Kessler Mansion. Located at 4923 Kessler Boulevard East in the heart of the city, this gaudy residence is one of Indy’s most iconic houses that didn’t belong to a former president or author.
Out of the imagination of local resident — and, at one time, Indianapolis’ top pimp — Jerry Hostetler, came this absolutely one-of-a-kind mansion.
At age 24, around the height of his "success," Hostetler had this absolute mess of a house built. He later added to it during his time as a local construction magnate after his other career came to an end.
Hostetler initially bought a quaint, ranch-style home in the 1960s, then began buying up his neighbor’s properties and expanding his estate.
With an excess of bizarre balconies that look like they’d be better suited on the exterior of a two-star hotel (as well as more stone statues than a single residence needs), this house was an eyesore in an otherwise beautiful neighborhood.
He added everything you’d expect a 20-something pimp to add.
He dug an absurdly large pool and built several ponds. He put in a Playboy Mansion-style grotto, complete with a hot tub. He even added life-sized stone gorillas at one point.
Inside, the decor was no less extravagant.
Hostetler constructed lavish ballrooms, strange bedrooms, and fish tanks and fireplaces galore.
By the time he died in 2006, the property had ballooned to over 26,000-square-feet.
Along with the original ranch home, there’s also a pool house, a ridiculously large guest house, an entertainment center, and a "modest" apartment for more guests.
After his death, the property was purchased by an Indiana entrepreneur named Chad Folkening.
After extensive repairs and much-needed maintenance, the house was — and still is — listed on the market. The house has become famous nationwide, as it was once featured as an HGTV Extreme Home and has been covered by other large media outlets.
Despite the national coverage, most of us Indy natives just know it as THAT house on Kessler or the Crazy Kessler Mansion. It’s certainly a sight to see when passing through one of the city's most popular neighborhoods.
Have you checked out this place for yourself? Let us know in the comments.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
