In Manhattan's oldest standing residential house, the lives of wealthy residents unfolded during an era when peach orchards and grazing sheep dotted the fields of Upper Manhattan. The mansion was also briefly the Revolutionary War headquarters of George Washington until it was seized by British troops. Morris-Jumel Mansion will satisfy the interest of American history buffs, while the surrounding homes in this historical district will delight anyone interested in New York City's architecture.
Parking and public transportation at Morris-Jumel Mansion
The most convenient option is the C train to 163rd Street. Walk just past the C-Town Supermarket, up the stone steps to the left, and onto the cobblestoned Sylvan Terrace. The mansion will be directly in front of you. The 1 train to 157th Street is another option, but requires more walking. If driving, parking is available on the streets surrounding the mansion.
Best and worst time to go to Morris-Jumel Mansion
Docents lead mansion tours every Saturday at noon and neighborhood tours on the first Sunday of each month. Call ahead or reserve a spot online; walk-ins are accommodated based on space. The mansion hosts regular lectures and concerts, and portions of the house may be blocked off to accommodate the event, inhibiting your exploration. Check the frequently updated website.
Admission to Morris-Jumel Mansion
The mansion is open every day except Monday, and closed on major holidays. Regular adult admission starts at $10; tours start at $12. Discounts are given to children, students, and seniors.
Must see/do at Morris-Jumel Mansion
Each elaborately furnished room is meant to evoke the eras of the various residents. Don't miss the dining room where George Washington hosted a cabinet dinner, or Eliza Jumel's elegant, silk-draped bedroom, said to contain Napoleon's bed that she brought home from France. The kitchen displays cooking utensils and dishware used by the mansion's residents and guests.
Other places to visit near Morris-Jumel Mansion
The mansion is surrounded by lovely brownstones once occupied by jazz luminaries such as Duke Ellington and Count Basie. Eliza Jumel's final resting place is a short walk away at Trinity Church Cemetery and Mausoleum. The Hamilton Grange also makes for a fitting side trip considering Hamilton's killer, Aaron Burr, resided at Morris-Jumel Mansion during his brief marriage to Eliza.
Insider tips for visitors to Morris-Jumel Mansion
The mansion has a rich history of ghost sightings, particularly that of Madame Jumel. Some docents don't care to discuss this, as it takes away from the actual history. If you're interested in ghosts, approach the topic gently.
Author's bio: Michele DeBella is a freelance writer based in New York City. As an apartment dweller, she thinks a mansion on top of a hill in Manhattan is pretty awesome. Follow her on Twitter.