Built in 1776, the Jumel Mansion is the oldest house in Manhattan. It began as Colonial Roger Morris's "Gentleman's Farm" in colonial New York. It served as a Revolutionary War headquarters to General Washington in September and October of 1776. After Washington left the house, the house served as host to a succession of British and Hessian Military leaders and then as an inn for tired travelers. It also served as a "Chateau in the Heights" to Madame Eliza Jumel in the 19th Century along the way. Eventually, the house returned to being a country house.
The mansion is built in Palladian style with a second story balcony with a walkway to the front of the house that is supported by columns. The first floor features room for family and social gatherings and includes the parlor in which Madame Eliza Jumel married Aaron Burr in 1833.
The Jumel Mansion is located on Jumel Terrace which intersects with Sylvan Terrace. Sylvan Terrace is one of Manhattan's most famous historic districts in Harlem. It is a one-block street full of well-preserved row houses built in 1882. Sylvan Terrace looks pretty much as it did in 1882, when it was constructed, complete with Belgian stones.
The following tours drive by Jumel Mansion, near Sylvan Terrace in New York City:
