One Tank Adventure: Boscobel's Historic Details And Dazzling View

Boscobel is a historic home located in Garrison, New York. Like many pedigreed homes in the Hudson Valley, it offers a glimpse into the lives of Hudson Valley residents in previous generations, but this particular home offers something extra: one of the most stunning river views in the Hudson Valley.

The home was built in the early 19th century by gentleman farmer States Morris Dyckman. Inspired by Boscobel Manor in England, he began to build the estate alongside the Hudson River in what is now Crugers. It was considered one of the finest examples of Federal style architecture in New York. Sadly, Dyckman never lived to see the construction completed. His widow, Elizabeth Dyckman completed the project.

The family no longer owned the house by 1888 and in 1923 Westchester County acquired the house and land to create Crugers Park. The county wanted to raze the house in 1941 but local residents lobbied to save it. It was eventually sold to wreckers for $35 in 1955, but a donation by benefactor, Lila Acheson Wallace, helped to save the house and move it to its current location. The house was taken apart for the move, reassembled and eventually returned to its former Federal glory. In 1961 it reopened as a historic home.

The interiors now feature an important collection of decorative arts from the Federal period that can be seen in an hour-long, docent-led tour of the house.

Outside of the house, there’s an orchard, a circular rose garden and a stunning southerly view of the Hudson, which features the buildings of West Point. In the summer the estate is home to the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Company, which uses the rolling lawns as a backdrop for their productions. Visitors can also hike a woodland trail on the property.

Through October, the museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last tour taking place at 4 p.m. In November and December the museum has the same hours but the last tour is at 3 p.m.

Admission is $17 for adults, $14 for seniors, $8 for children, 6to 14, free for children under six. A family price of $45 admits four people.

The museum is located at 1601 NY-9D, Garrison. For more information, call 845 265-3638 or click here.