Oheka Castle, Once a Symbol of Gilded Age Opulence, Heads to Auction

Oheka Castle, a historic Long Island estate known for its Gilded Age grandeur and as a popular wedding venue, is set to be sold at auction next month. The Concierge Auctions sale, concluding on October 27, aims to resolve the property's Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Prospective buyers must submit a $750,000 deposit to participate in the auction for the 113,000-square-foot mansion located in Huntington. The sale marks the end of an era for former owner Gary Melius, a developer and political figure who filed for bankruptcy last summer. His filing revealed dire financial straits for the estate, with less than $60 in its bank account, no cash on hand, and over $63.5 million in debt.

The bankruptcy court approved the public auction after Melius was unable to settle his debts. Melius, who owned Oheka Castle for decades and invested millions in its restoration, survived an assassination attempt on the property in 2014. He told The Post that he had invested $50 million over 40 years at the estate.

Development Potential and Bidding Landscape

The property's 23-acre grounds offer significant development opportunities. The town of Huntington has already approved the construction of 95 luxury condominiums on the easternmost 5 acres. These units are expected to sell for $1.8 million or more each, potentially generating millions annually and paving the way for further development on adjacent land.

Hedge fund Taconic Capital is considered a frontrunner in the bidding process. Taconic holds the mansion's $60 million defaulted mortgage and can use this amount as bidding currency, a significant advantage under bankruptcy code. The fund also owns an adjacent 13.3-acre parcel, previously purchased from the neighboring country club, which could facilitate a revived proposal for residential development.

A Legacy of Grandeur and Historical Significance

Originally built by financier Otto Kahn in the years leading up to the Roaring Twenties, Oheka Castle was designed as a lavish private residence. It became a symbol of the era's opulence, hosting elaborate parties for hundreds of guests, including celebrities, aristocracy, and flappers. At the time of its construction, it was the largest residence ever built on Long Island, surpassing estates of contemporaries like the Vanderbilts and Morgans.

Beyond its Gilded Age heyday, Oheka Castle has served various roles. During World War II, it was used as a school for radio operators. Later, it functioned as a vacation retreat for New York City sanitation workers. The estate's grandeur also caught the eye of filmmakers; Orson Welles famously used the mansion and grounds as the setting for Xanadu in the 1941 film "Citizen Kane."

Notable Events and Enduring Appeal

In more recent decades, Oheka Castle has been a sought-after venue for high-profile weddings. Notable ceremonies held at the estate include those of musician Kevin Jonas and his wife Danielle, and former politician Anthony Weiner and Huma Abedin. In April 2026, New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton married Olympic track-and-field star Anna Hall in a ceremony described as "fairytale-style."

The castle itself features 127 rooms, including 34 guest suites furnished in period style, a grand ballroom, reflecting pools, and formal French gardens. Despite its financial troubles, Oheka Castle remains a significant landmark, representing a unique chapter in American Gilded Age history and Long Island's Gold Coast.