Anglophilic Classical Architecture and Style on the Hudson
Day Tour
Join Royal Oak for a day of exploring historic architectural jewels on the Hudson! The day will begin with a tour of Boscobel House and Gardens led by Executive Director, Jennifer Carlquist.
Built between 1804 and 1808, Boscobel was owned by wealthy Loyalists to the British Crown. After falling into disrepair by the 1950s, the house was demolished. Preservationists saved the architectural fragments and reassembled the Neoclassical mansion 15 miles north, restoring the house back to—and even beyond—its original grandeur. We will learn about the house’s history and remarkable restoration, as well as view the superb collection of decorative arts from the Federal period: including Duncan Phyfe furniture, silver, ceramics and more.
We also will tour the landscaped grounds, the herb garden, orangery, and formal garden. We will enjoy a gourmet lunch alfresco with dramatic views of the Hudson River (weather permitting).
Our afternoon will be filled with exclusive tours of private houses. We will visit a private 18th-century house filled with early New York furnishings. Originally built in 1737 by Jacob Mandeville, the house was the headquarters for General Putnam during the American Revolution. The property also has a Gothic Revival church designed by one of its former residents, Richard Upjohn.
Our last stop will be The Armour-Stiner (Octagon) House in Irvington, the only private residence which replicates Donato Bramante’s 1502 Tempietto in Rome. Its current owner, Joseph Pell Lombardi, is a preservation architect specializing in historic conservation and restoration. He, along with his son Michael Hall Lombardi, restored the house and grounds to their 1872 appearance.
Michael will join our tour of the house and discuss the interiors and decorations which include 1870s furnishings in the American Neo-Roman style. We will also view the only domestic Egyptian Revival room still in existence with its original 19th-century furnishings and decoration.
Tour will be held rain or shine. This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Boscobel House Photo Lauren Daisley
