Ruggles House sits in a big old Victorian mansion built by George DeForest and once owned by Jesse Hollister and Dr. Charles Robinson, and folks sometimes call it Lucy Ruggles House. This place has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 2005, and you can see Italianate woodwork, old fireplaces, and even a tower with a mansard roof, so there's plenty of historical charm with things like family antiques, parquet floors, and traces of Greek Revival style, especially in what's called the ell, which is a two-story extension off the main block of the house. Cathedral Square manages Ruggles House, and it's run as a nonprofit, so its focus isn't on dollars but on community, and the place has a warm, quiet feeling-lots of shared spaces, French doors in sunlit parlors, restored public rooms, and gardens out back with flowers and vegetables.
They opened the doors to seniors back in 2002, and now they have 14 apartments-13 are studios, and there's 1 one-bedroom, with kitchenettes and private baths in every unit, so you don't have to share your bathroom or cooking space. Residents here get options for independent and accessible living, with support like a full-time SASH coordinator and a part-time wellness nurse, plus routine housekeeping and on-site property management, and everything is designed for ages 55 and up who want to live on their own but with a bit of help if needed. Ruggles House offers low-income options, including 9 units with rent capped at 30% of income, 3 market-rate units, and other options, all funded by tax credits and housing grants, and that keeps things affordable for most folks.
It's a small community-just 11 low-income units counted in that group out of the 14 total-and there's an easygoing, social feeling because meals are nutritious and planned by chefs, and the shared dining room, living room, and kitchen are all set up to bring people together. Seniors who live here usually are healthy and active, but can get extra help if they need it, since the facility offers care types like Assisted Living, Memory Care, Nursing Home, Skilled Nursing, and Home Care, even though it mainly runs as independent living. Pets are allowed, and there's an elevator, laundry facilities, and garden space, which make day-to-day living simpler for everyone. Cathedral Square keeps up with property maintenance, and the whole place feels peaceful and welcoming.
The residents and families seem to like it well enough, since the community's got a rating of 8 out of 10 in reviews, which uses a My Caring Plan scoresheet. Prospective residents can request a tour and ask about prices and availability, which can be tailored based on needs. Everything at Ruggles House is built for people who want cost-conscious living that doesn't lose the sense of community, and you won't find a fancy style here, but it's comfortable, simple, and rooted in caring for neighbors.
