This massive building called "the green monster" by Bellevue staff was once the private sports complex of the mansion's owner. The man, a Dupont, was very fond of tennis. And so in the 1930's built this very impressive complex so that he could play his beloved sport year-round. Not only were these courts indoors, but they were grass courts(the standard of the time). Think about that for a second, living mowed grass inside of a roofed structure, for the express purpose of playing tennis. Not only that, but this building included badminton courts and an indoor swimming pool. There is even a tunnel linking it to the mansion, so that Mr. Dupont and his guests wouldn't have to trudge through the rain or cold to get to the courts. How interesting is that?

Since the late 1980's, though, this building has been allowed to deteriorate, and there are plans to eventually raze what is mostly considered an eyesore and huge liability by the mansion's staff. Apparently some kids broke in and vandalized it a couple years back too, exacerbating the issue, causing enough damage to make it beyond economic feasibility to restore. And yet the cost of restoration is only a little bit higher than demolition. The whole situation makes me very suspicious. This massive building isn't even mentioned on the mansion tour, so what does that say to you?

If I remember correctly the little yellow building is an old schoolhouse that was connected to the tennis courts after the building was completed. Notice the boards painted to look like windows.

Bellevue Park, Delaware