10. Snug Harbor Governor’s House

Photograph Courtesy of credit Nicholas Van Eyck via Open House New York

During OHNY Weekend, explore the historic Governor’s House at Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, which is typically closed to the general public. This building, designed by Richard P Smyth and built in 1880, was actually never the Governor’s House at all, but that of the chief steward, or bookkeeper. At one time Thomas Melville, brother to Moby Dick author Herman Melville, lived in the home, spending time with the residents of the grounds and, perhaps, finding a bit of inspiration. The Italianate architectural style prevalent throughout much of the 19th century can be spied in its long windows, bracketed eaves, and simple porches. The original governor’s house, which no longer stands, was on the northwest corner of the property and was twice the size of this house.

The site will be open on Saturday, October 19 from 12:00PM to 4:00PM.