About Boscobel house and gardens
Boscobel House and Gardens: A Historic House Museum with Unparalleled River Views
Boscobel House and Gardens is a renowned historic house museum located in the heart of the Hudson Valley, New York. The museum boasts one of the finest collections of decorative arts, including furniture from the Federal period. With its stunning river views and picturesque gardens, Boscobel is a must-visit destination for history buffs, art enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.
History
The history of Boscobel dates back to 1804 when States Morris Dyckman built it as his family home. The house was designed by renowned architect Alexander Jackson Davis in the Federal style, which was popular during that time. In 1955, Boscobel was moved from its original location in Montrose to its current site overlooking the Hudson River in Garrison.
Today, Boscobel is owned and operated by The Friends of Boscobel Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving this historic landmark for future generations.
Collections
Boscobel's collection includes over 1,000 objects from the Federal period (1780-1830), including furniture made by some of America's most celebrated cabinetmakers such as Duncan Phyfe and Charles-Honoré Lannuier. Visitors can also admire exquisite examples of porcelain, silverware, glassware, textiles and paintings that reflect the elegance and refinement of this era.
One highlight is an impressive neoclassical sideboard made by Phyfe around 1815 for John Jacob Astor's mansion on Broadway in New York City. Another notable piece is a mahogany sofa attributed to Lannuier that features carved eagles on each armrest.
In addition to these treasures from America's past are contemporary works commissioned specifically for Boscobel’s collection. These pieces include sculptures by artists such as Tom Otterness and George Rickey that complement their surroundings while adding new dimensions to visitors' experiences at this unique museum.
Gardens
The gardens at Boscobel are equally impressive with their breathtaking views overlooking the Hudson River valley below. Designed by landscape architect Marian Coffin in collaboration with horticulturist Penelope Hobhouse during restoration efforts after World War II destroyed much of what had been there before; they feature formal terraces planted with boxwood hedges surrounding fountains or statuary; herbaceous borders filled with perennials like peonies or roses; woodland walks through native trees like oak or maple; meadows dotted here-and-there with wildflowers like goldenrod or asters – all providing visitors an opportunity not only enjoy nature but also learn about it through interpretive signage throughout these areas.
Events
Throughout the year there are many events held at Boscobel ranging from lectures on art history or gardening techniques to concerts featuring classical music performed outdoors under starry skies above! There are also special exhibitions showcasing different aspects related either directly or indirectly towards American decorative arts – such as "A Taste For Splendor" which explored how wealthy Americans decorated their homes during Gilded Age (1870s-1900s).
Visiting Information
Bosocbel House & Gardens welcomes visitors year-round except Mondays (except Memorial Day & Labor Day) Thanksgiving Day Christmas Eve & Christmas Day New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day). Admission fees vary depending upon age group membership status etc.; however discounts available military personnel seniors students groups etc.. Guided tours available daily except Tuesdays Wednesdays Thursdays when self-guided tours only offered due staffing limitations those days). Parking free onsite lot adjacent property entrance gatehouse where tickets sold gift shop located inside main building open same hours rest facility restrooms picnic tables provided grounds near parking area too!
Conclusion:
In conclusion,Bosocbel House & Gardens offers an unparalleled experience for anyone interested in American decorative arts architecture landscape design natural beauty cultural heritage more! Whether you're looking spend few hours exploring galleries admiring vistas strolling through gardens attending event learning something new about our nation's past present future Bosocbel has something offer everyone who visits here!
boscobel.org
