Dutchess Manor facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Dutchess Manor
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Main manor house in 2007 (later additions not shown)
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| Location | Town of Fishkill, NY |
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| Nearest city | Beacon |
| Built | 1889 |
| Architectural style | Second Empire |
| MPS | Hudson Highlands Multiple Property Resource Area |
| NRHP reference No. | 82001131 |
| Added to NRHP | 1982 |
Dutchess Manor is a special building located along NY 9D in the Town of Fishkill, New York, United States. It sits between the city of Beacon and Breakneck Ridge. This building is known for its unique look, which is called the Second Empire architectural style. Because it's so important, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Today, it is a popular restaurant and event space.
A Glimpse into Dutchess Manor's History
Building a Dream: The Story of Francis Timoney
Dutchess Manor was built in 1889 by a man named Francis Timoney. He was an Irish immigrant who became very successful. Francis owned three brickyards, which are places where bricks are made. These brickyards used clay found right along the east side of the Hudson River, close to where the manor stands.
Bricks and Business: How Timoney Succeeded
The bricks made by Francis Timoney's yards were used to build Dutchess Manor. The nearby New York Central Water Level Route, a major railroad line, made it easy for him to send his bricks to places like New York City. This good transportation helped his business grow, allowing him to build this grand estate.
Architectural Style: What Makes it Special?
Dutchess Manor is a great example of the Second Empire architectural style. This style was popular in the late 1800s. Some of its special features include:
- Quoining: These are decorative blocks, often made of stone or brick, placed at the corners of the building. They make the corners look stronger and more fancy.
- Mansard Roof: This is a special type of roof that has four sides, each with two slopes. The lower slope is steeper than the upper one. This design often allows for extra living space in the attic.
Dutchess Manor Today: A Popular Gathering Spot
From Home to Restaurant: Its New Purpose
Over the years, Dutchess Manor has changed from a private home into a busy restaurant. The upper floors are now used for managing the restaurant and for living spaces. It has become a very popular place for special events, especially weddings.
Scenic Views and Special Events
One of the main reasons Dutchess Manor is so popular is its amazing location. From the property, you can see beautiful views of the Hudson River and the nearby Hudson Highlands. These scenic views make it a perfect spot for celebrations and gatherings.
Changes and Historic Elements
To make space for more diners, the south and west parts of the building have been made larger. These newer additions are not considered part of the original historic design. However, a nearby building called a carriage house, which Francis Timoney also built, is still very much like it was originally. This carriage house, now used as apartments, is considered a "contributing property." This means it helps show the historical importance of the entire Dutchess Manor estate.
