On November 28, 1776, the same year that 56 Americans signed the Declaration of Independence, well over 200 colonial New Yorkers placed their signatures on a “Declaration of Dependence.” These signers were Loyalists, citizens who remained faithful to their sovereign, George III, King of Great Britain. Prominent among the signatures was Frederick Philipse III, Lord of the vast Manor of Philipsburg and resident of the elegant mansion known today as Philipse Manor Hall. Frederick Philipse III and his family lived in luxury, well supported by rents from the many tenant farms on his property. Times were changing, however, and while others rebelled against Great Britain, Frederick III defended the Crown. His Loyalist beliefs were so strong that General George Washington ordered him arrested in 1776. Philipse and his family later fled to British occupied New York City and then to England, where the last “Lord of the Manor,” broken in spirit and health, died in 1786. His land and his mansion were confiscated by the New York State Legislature and sold at a public auction. EZ Yonkers Junk Removal
In 1868, after passing through the hands of many owners, the house became Yonkers Village Hall and, in 1872, the first City Hall. By the 20th century, city growth threatened Manor Hall’s future until New York State acquired it in 1908 with the generous help of the Cochran Family of Yonkers. Today, Philipse Manor Hall serves as a history, art, and architecture museum and hosts community organizations, meetings, educational programs, and special events. Highlights of the Hall include its 18th century, high style Georgian architecture, a 1750s papier mache Rococo ceiling, and an impressive collection of presidential portraits, including the six Presidents of New York State. A Community Gallery has been created at Philipse Manor Hall to display materials supporting Manor Hall’s programs relating and services to the local community. Exhibit policy and application forms are available at the administrative office. Both individuals and organizations are welcome to apply.
Address: 29 Warburton Avenue Yonkers, NY
Nearby Attractions
- Beczak Environmental Education Center- exhibits and programs indoors, outdoors, and in the Hudson River! Maintained by Sarah Lawrence College
- Science Barge-The Science Barge is a prototype sustainable urban farm developed by NY Sun Works and operates as an environmental education center. Groundwork Hudson Valley maintains the barge.
- Untermyer Gardens Conservancy- Located a few miles north of the Manor, the Conservancy collaborates with the City of Yonkers, NY, to facilitate the restoration and promotion of Samuel Untermyer’s property and gardens for the general public. Open daily until sunset, free of charge.
Check out other attractions like Groundwork Hudson Valley Science Barge