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Experience a Gilded Age Holiday at Staatsburgh State Historic Site
As the air turns crisp and holiday plans begin to fill our calendars, one of the most splendid destinations to embrace the festive season is the Staatsburgh State Historic Site, commonly known as Mills Mansion, nestled in the picturesque Hudson Valley. This Gilded Age masterpiece invites guests to step into a winter wonderland where history and holiday spirit collide.
Historical Context: The Grandeur of Mills Mansion
Built in 1832, the mansion epitomizes the grandeur of the wealth accumulated during the Gilded Age. Originally constructed as a Greek Revival home by Morgan Lewis and his wife, Gertrude, the mansion underwent significant expansions under their daughter, Ruth Livingston Mills, and her financier husband, Ogden Mills. By 1896, the mansion had transformed into a Beaux-Arts marvel, featuring 65 rooms and lavish decor, housing the legacies of those who shaped America during an era of remarkable economic growth.
Transformation for the Holidays
This holiday season, Staatsburgh State Historic Site showcases its charm through "A Gilded Age Christmas," offering visitors a glimpse of how this historic home celebrated the holidays over a century ago. Guests are treated to lavish decorations that recreate the holiday aesthetic of a bygone era, including an 18-foot Christmas tree adorned with electric lights—the first application of electricity during festive ornamentation. The decorations provide an immersive experience, transporting visitors back to simpler yet opulent times.
Self-Guided Tours and Engaging Activities
If you're planning your visit, the self-guided tour format allows for an intimate exploration of the mansion at your own pace. With docents available to share unique anecdotes and stories, guests gain deeper insights into the lives of the families that once lived there. The mansion’s breathtaking décor is complemented by an engaging scavenger hunt for children, adding a playful element to the historical experience. This not only captivates younger visitors but also allows families to bond over shared discoveries.
Destination Accessibility: How to Get There
Conveniently located off NY-Route 9, Staatsburgh State Historic Site is easily accessible for travelers from both the north and south. Visitors utilizing public transportation can opt for Amtrak service to Rhinecliff, followed by a quick taxi ride, making it a viable day trip even from New York City. Upon arrival, guests will be guided to the majestic entrance, where captivating experiences await.
Affordability and Access to History
With admission fees set at $10 for adults and $8 for seniors and students, visiting the mansion during the holiday season is exceptionally reasonable. Children under 12 enter for free, making this a perfect family outing affording access not only to holiday fun but also to a rich historical narrative. The opportunity to experience such an important part of American history during the festive season is a gift in itself.
The Lasting Charm of Staatsburgh
As visitors navigate through the opulent halls, adorned with decorations reflecting traditions from the Grand Tour—an elegant journey popular among wealthy Americans of the time—the aura of a Gilded Age Christmas envelops them. This site stands as a powerful testament to its era, combining heritage with holiday cheer, promising an unforgettable experience.
Start Planning Your Visit!
With the festivities running until December 30th, don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in a lavish Gilded Age Christmas at Staatsburgh State Historic Site. Ensure your place by securing an entry time online, or simply arrive and purchase your ticket at the door, as this enchanting experience is one you won’t want to pass up!
In cultivating a deeper appreciation for our shared history, events like this remind us of where we came from and how far we've come. Enjoy the holidays at Staatsburgh, where the past meets the present in a fabulous celebration of both!
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