A historic farmhouse in Palisades, New York, with Revolutionary War ties and home to prominent contemporary actors and artists, is on the market for $5 million.
The farmhouse at 35 Washington Springs Road, built by John Sneddon around 1750, sits on land stretching from Rockland County, New York, to Bergen County, New Jersey, and bears witness to key points in history time, North Jersey Net Report.
In 1776, during the raid on Fort Lee, 500 patriots gathered near the property, forcing the British troops to land along the Palisades. General George Washington later built a blockhouse nearby to watch the river and protect the ferry docks, and it was frequented by the likes of Benedict Arnold.
Over the years, the farmhouse has undergone extensions and renovations by subsequent owners. The oldest part of the house features exposed sandstone blocks dating back to its original construction. Mary Watson purchased the property in 1859 and added the largest section and highest roofline. Lydia Lawrence later reportedly converted the house into the town’s first public library.
The 3,200-square-foot interior consists of three en-suite bedrooms, three living rooms, four bathrooms and an English kitchen. Original features have been retained including pine floors, working fireplaces, panel doors and hand-hewn beams.
The house is fully furnished with antiques from the 18th and 19th centuries. A rear porch allows residents to enjoy views of the Hudson River, complete with landscaping and an in-ground swimming pool.
Sculptor Alexander Phimister Proctor, composer Aaron Copland and actors Margot Kidder, Uma Thur Uma Thurman and Ethan Hawke have both settled at 35 Spring Road, Washington in recent years.
Richard Ellis of Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty owns the listing.
— Ted Glazer
