John Jay Homestead State Historic Site

When John Jay left public life in 1801, after having served as president of the Continental Congress, drafter of the Treaty of Paris, chief justice of the United States Supreme Court, and governor of New York, he and his family moved into a 24-room Federal-style mansion that was built to befit his new career as a gentleman farmer on his 714-acre estate. Through four succeeding generations, the house’s size increased to 60 rooms. In 1958, the homestead was purchased by Westchester County and gifted to New York State. Today, the house is furnished to reflect changing tastes, with reproduction wallpapers and carpets as well as furniture primarily crafted in New York that Jay purchased for his new home. Family portraits, porcelain, and other artwork adorn the rooms. Outdoors, there is a magnificent beech allée, as well as three restored gardens. An early 19th century barn features an exhibit about the Jays’ agricultural pursuits.

Amenities: Passport Stamp, Family Friendly, Restrooms