A Candy King, and a Sanitary Steward, Resided in This Squirrel Hill Manse

Nestled on over a half acre of mature trees and beautiful landscaping, the 7,000-square-foot mansion in Squirrel Hill is worth a doubletake in its own right.

Built in 1904, the Colonial Revival at 5435 Dunmoyle Street is a classic example of the turn-of-the-century historical homes that Pittsburgh is known for.

Beyond the stained glass, original millwork and marble fireplaces, the home’s deed history reads like a who’s who of Pittsburgh ingenuity. The home was originally constructed by architect William B. Bennett between 1903 and 1904 for Richard H. and Sidney O. Hartje, who purchased the land for $12,500 and paid $25,000 for the construction.

Richard’s father, Augustus Hartje, founded Hartje & Wiley, which, through a series of mergers, eventually became part of American Standard. Today, many classic Pittsburgh Potties still bear a “Standard” or “Standard Sanitary” stamp. The Hartje family, who owned a paper manufacturing company, also was involved in various local business ventures. Notably, Augustus was at the center of a divorce scandal that gripped the nation in 1906, just a year after the Dunmoyle Street home was constructed.

From paper and potties to candy bars, the home first changed hands in 1920, when the then-widowed Sidney Hartje sold her home to David L. Clark, also known as Pittsburgh’s Candy King.

Clark, an immigrant to Pittsburgh who began his career by selling candy bars out of a horse-drawn wagon, eventually came to run the D.L. Clark Candy Company. While the candy bars are now manufactured in Altoona, the iconic marquee remains on the Martindale Street building in the North Side.

It was the Clark family that added the enclosed porch on the east side of the home, bringing the total square footage to nearly 7,000. Even after David’s death in 1939, the Clark family owned the home until 1963.

Today, in what stands out as an incredible act of both preservation and restoration, the home retains every ounce of its original character. It is now listed for $2.9 million by Jennifer Tylenda of Exp Realty.

“The right buyer will share a love for architecture and the historical elements of the property as well as the resort-like private lot,” says Tylendale, who also served as interior designer for the current owners through her agency, Studio id. She extends an offer of a complimentary design consultation to the next owners as well.

“Anchoring the grand staircase is an extraordinary early-20th century stained glass window — an original work of architectural art depicting a serene pastoral scene in vibrant jewel tones,” says Tylenda.

It’s captivating from the moment one steps from the rounded portico into the foyer. “Illuminated by natural light, it transforms the hall into a gallery-like space and reflects the craftsmanship of Pittsburgh’s historic estate era,” Tylendale says.

Throughout the main level, details such as ornate millwork, marble surfaces and custom-stained glass that depict intricate scenes bely the wealth and history behind the home.

The large, bright kitchen is well-planned for a home chef, and brings every modern convenience to the turn-of-the-century space. A butler’s pantry connects the kitchen to the dining room, which is spacious enough for a large table and also features a window bench below a stained glass window that makes an enchanting perch for reading or a morning coffee.

There are five bedrooms and six bathrooms in the main home, with additional space on the grounds.

“The privacy and size of the lot is rather unique,” says Tylendale. “With a three-car detached garage and a one-bedroom apartment above for a nanny or guests, there is plenty of space if the five bedrooms and huge gameroom in the main house do not suffice.”

The second floor of the main home houses the primary suite, two bedrooms and a den. The third floor includes two additional bedrooms, a full bathroom and a large game room. The lower level features a fitness area, wine storage and another full bathroom.

Built in 1910, the garage, designed by same architect who planned out the main house, overlooks a stone patio and an in-ground, heated pool. From recent upgrades in the kitchen to careful upkeep of the mechanics of the home, the property has been meticulously maintained, leaving little unknown for the next owners, according to Tylendale.

The owners say this house was a perfect match for their needs in every way. Their extended family often referred to visits at the home as “having a weekend at the family bed-and-breakfast.”

The space, character and warmth of the home delivers the perfect mix of luxury and cozy familiarity; the heated pool and gym help, too.

“We loved the house for large family gatherings, fundraisers, concerts and more. We will really miss that,” the family shared via email. “Being able to host our whole family for long weekends was a highlight.”

Pre-approved buyers and their agents may set up a tour with Jennifer Tylenda, who will be present at all showings. Contact jennifer.tylenda@exprealty.com with questions.