John Jay Homestead State Historic Site facts for kids
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John Jay Homestead
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In 2007
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 Location in New York
Location in the United States
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| Location | 400 Jay St., Katonah, NY |
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| Area | 58.9 acres (23.8 ha) |
| Built | 1787–1790 |
| Architect | John Cooley and Moses Winian |
| Architectural style | Georgian |
| Website | www.JohnJayHomestead.org |
| NRHP reference No. | 72000918 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | July 24, 1972 |
| Designated NHL | May 29, 1981 |
The John Jay Homestead State Historic Site is a special place in Katonah, New York. It was the home of John Jay (1745–1829). He was one of America's Founding Fathers. John Jay helped write the The Federalist Papers. He was also the first Chief Justice of the United States. This historic home was recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1981. You can visit the house for tours all year round.
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What is the John Jay Homestead?
The John Jay Homestead is found in a quiet area near Katonah, New York. It is a large, two-and-a-half-story brick building. It has a special roof shape called a gambrel roof. There are smaller, one-story wings on each side of the main house.
The front of the house has five window sections. The windows are placed evenly around the main door. The middle section is a bit wider. The front door has a small window above it. A porch covers the entire first floor. It wraps around to other entrances on the sides.
Building a Home
John Jay built his home on a large piece of land. This land was part of an even bigger area. His grandfather, Jacobus Van Cortlandt, bought this land around 1700. He bought it from Chief Katonah.
John Jay started planning the house in 1787. He worked with brickmakers and carpenters. The first part of the house was finished in 1790. Later, in 1800–1801, the house was made bigger. The main part was extended, and new wings were added.
Who was John Jay?
John Jay had a very important career. He was a leader in the Continental Congress. He helped write New York's first state constitution. He was also the Governor of New York. Later, he became the Chief Justice of New York's Supreme Court. Then, he became the first Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court. After his long career, John Jay spent his retirement years at this home.
A Home for History
The house stayed in the Jay family for a long time. In 1959, it was given to Westchester County. The county then gave it to New York State. The state worked to restore the house. They wanted it to look like it did when John Jay lived there. Then, it opened as a historic site for everyone to visit.
In 1977, a group called the Friends of John Jay Homestead was started. This group helps people learn about the site. They also raise money and volunteer. This helps keep the Homestead preserved and open for visitors. The house was officially named a National Historic Landmark in 1981.
A Special Place in History
In 2004, the John Jay Homestead was added to the African American Heritage Trail of Westchester County. This trail includes 16 important sites. These sites help tell the story of African Americans in Westchester County. Other places on the trail include the Rye African-American Cemetery and Saint Paul's Church National Historic Site.
Images for kids
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John Jay (Gilbert Stuart portrait, 1794)
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South perspective view in 1961 (HABS)
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