Morris Jumel Mansion – A Treasure in Washington Heights

The Morris Jumel Mansion is a hidden gem that is well worth a visit by Upper West Side residents and explorers. Increasingly recognized for its historical, cultural, and architectural cachet, the mansion is located off 161^st street in Upper Manhattan, and is easily accessible via subway, bus or car. It holds the title of ‘oldest house in Manhattan’, and perhaps unsurprisingly, as befits this designation, is reportedly the site of some paranormal activity! The mansion hosts a series of Paranormal Historical Investigations and a Candlelight Ghost Tour. It is said that Eliza Jumel, former owner, and one of the more interesting personalities associated with the house, has been seen roaming its halls.

The Morris Jumel Mansion, built by British Officer Rodger Morris in 1765, can be found amidst a sea of high rises and brownstones, perched upon the second highest natural location on the island of Manhattan.  Tours of the mansion highlight its historical significance over the past 400 years, from colonization and the American Revolution to the notable residents who have participated in its construction, renovation and ownership. George Washington used the house for a period of time as a temporary headquarters, after his army was defeated at the battle of Brooklyn. The mansion’s walls have entertained a who’s-who of famous revolutionary heroes, including John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and Alexander Hamilton among others. It’s most famous resident is most likely Aaron Burr, who lived there with his wife and owner of the house, Eliza Jumel. (You might know Aaron Burr as the man who shot and killed Alexander Hamilton in an infamous duel.) The mansion continues to be a source of creative significance today, as evidenced by images of the chair in Aaron Burr’s bedchamber where Lin Manuel Miranda more recently sat, to gain inspiration when writing the musical ‘Hamilton‘. https://morrisjumel.org/

IN the 1940’s, the mansion’s immediate surroundings housed many of the more famous figures of the Harlem Renaissance, such as Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Joe Lewis. Today, the mansion serves contemporaneously as a historical landmark of a time long since passed, as well as a present day welcoming community space. The grounds are impeccably kept, with a picturesque garden out back, and an unparalleled view of the East River. Inside, you will find a beautiful restoration of what the house might have looked like when its more famous residents lived there. This not-for-profit museum is constantly engaging in programming and educational events. It manages to maintain its historical significance, while also bringing in unique art installations to pair with the decor.  

Whether seeking a scary encounter, craving an upper Manhattan experience beyond the ordinary, or looking to take a step back in time, Upper West Siders will find that the Morris Jumel Mansion can more than satisfy. 

The Mansion is located at 65 Jumel Terrace, NY, NY 10032.