An unusual and iconic property in Cheyenne, Wyoming, known as the “Crystal Castle,” is now for sale, offering buyers the chance to own one of the state’s most distinctive homes, K 99 reports.
Located at 1023 Cotton Tail Drive, the 766-square-foot residence is built from an astonishing 30,000 glass embalming fluid bottles, giving it a striking, multi-turreted exterior. Originally completed in 1963, the house has been showcased on HGTV and in various architectural publications for its rare and creative design.
The home’s builder, J.H. (Harry) Widholm, found inspiration in a similar glass bottle house he had seen at Knott’s Berry Farm in California. Widholm began collecting bottles in 1946, eventually sourcing enough from regional morticians to construct his unique lake-side home over two years. Unlike other glass bottle houses popular in the 1960s, which commonly used liquor bottles, this Wyoming version has a distinctive look due to its unusual choice of glass. The colored bottles, mostly previously filled with formaldehyde, are set with their square bases facing outward. While the walls are plastered on the inside, a few of the bottles in the entryway emit colorful light into the home when the sun hits just right, while also providing excellent insulation.
Despite its unusual exterior, the Crystal Castle’s interior is surprisingly traditional, featuring hardwood floors, a recently updated bathroom and water heater, and a cozy wood-burning fireplace in the family room. The one-bedroom, one-bathroom home has retained much of its original charm and comes with almost all furnishings included in the sale.
The property also boasts a scenic 3.3-acre plot overlooking Curt Gowdy State Park and is close to several reservoirs, making it an ideal location for nature lovers. Currently used as a vacation cabin, the Crystal Castle is listed for $325,000.
