In New Rochelle, New York, the Davenport Mansion is a significant historical site. The affluent Davenport family lived in this magnificent specimen of Second Empire architecture, which was built in 1876. The estate has a big ballroom, gorgeous artwork, and roomy areas for partying. It has a lengthy history and has served a number of functions over the years. Nowadays, it is accessible to the public for tours and activities. The Davenport Mansion is a must-visit location if history, architecture, or design interest you.
History of the Davenport Mansion
One of the most significant locations in Savannah’s historic area is the Davenport House. It was one of the earliest buildings in the city to undergo restoration, and the Historic Savannah Foundation once called it home. In order to accommodate his huge family and numerous slaves, a mysterious architect by the name of Isaiah Davenport constructed the house around 1820. The structure was used as a boarding house after Davenport’s passing, when his widow rented out rooms to make ends meet. The Davenport House’s narrative is one of female empowerment.
The mansion has had a variety of uses over time.
Over its existence, the Davenport Mansion has served a variety of purposes, according to the changing demands of the neighborhood. Examples of some of the mansion’s many uses are as follows:
- School – The Davenport Mansion served as a girls’ school in the early 20th century. It was run by nuns from the Ursuline Order and was known as the New Rochelle School for Girls.
- Hospital – The mansion served as a military hospital during World War Two. It was transformed into a mental health facility following the war.
- Culture Center – The city of New Rochelle bought the estate in the 1960s and converted it into a cultural center. It served as a venue for musical performances, art exhibits, and other cultural activities.
- Office Space – The mansion was transformed into office space in the 1980s and was utilized by numerous enterprises.
- Event Venue – The mansion is now used for events and is available for public visits. It’s a well-liked venue for weddings, business gatherings, and other special events.
The Davenport Mansion’s numerous uses highlight its versatility and significance to the neighborhood. The mansion has remained a revered landmark and a representation of New Rochelle’s lengthy history in spite of its shifting functions.
Aspects of Architecture and Design
There are “intricately created parquet floors” in every room of the structure. A red marble fireplace, molded cornices, and an open staircase can be found in the main entrance hall. The semi-circular library contains bookcases, a fireplace, and a wood-paneled ceiling. Molded cornices, dado, and sliding inside shutters may be found in the former pool area. Red marble fireplaces, glazed sliding doors, and molded cornices may be found in the parlor and dining room. Some rooms feature fireplaces, and the master bedroom’s semi-circle has a sleeping porch.
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The house’s interiors and its vintage additions are virtually unaltered. Crenelated cornices in the parlor and dining room, original marble mantelpieces, and ornamental corbels in two second-floor bedrooms are just a few of the many original A. J. Davis details that can be found throughout the house.
Importance of the Davenport Mansion
One of the most significant locations in Savannah’s historic area is the Davenport House. It was one of the earliest buildings in the city to undergo restoration, and the Historic Savannah Foundation once called it home. In order to accommodate his huge family and numerous slaves, a mysterious architect by the name of Isaiah Davenport constructed the house around 1820. The structure was used as a boarding house after Davenport’s passing, when his widow rented out rooms to make ends meet. The Davenport House’s narrative is one of female empowerment. In order to support her enormous family, Sarah Davenport had to seize control of her husband’s earnings and possessions.
Downfall and Restoration of Davenport House
In 1840, Sarah traded the Banyan Family $8,000 in exchange for the Davenport Mansion. The mansion was owned by the Banyan Family for more than a century before it was finally sold in the 1940s. Yet long before then, the Banyans had left the house. The property had deteriorated by the 1930s, and the area had turned sleazy. Many nevertheless admired the house and recognized it for its architectural beauty despite the extent of disrepair. Despite being condemned, New Deal surveyors included it in the Historical American Buildings Survey.
The Davenport House was slated for demolition in the 1950s. A group of seven women organized, petitioned the city to halt the demolition, and raised money to buy the house. The Historic Savannah Foundation was started by these same women. They started working on the Davenport House’s restoration and operated out of there until moving to York Street.
The Davenport House tour
Guidance is required for tours of the interior, which is decorated in the manner of the 1820s. Booking a hop-on hop-off trolley tour, which stops right outside, or a tour that covers the museum and other Savannah landmarks on foot or on Segway will make your visit very simple and hassle-free. Options include combining Savannah River cruises with minivan tours, trolley tours, and walking tours of the historic districts. Walking tours with a Savannah ghost or architectural theme also highlight the museum.
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Davenport mansion wedding cost
In New Rochelle, New York, there is a wedding location called the Davenport Mansion on the Sound. Couples may have a really amazing milestone celebration at this venue, which offers them many chic event venues to choose from and magnificent waterfront views.
Davenport mansion Address
Davenport Avenue, 400
10805 New Rochelle, New York
Source : davenporthouse.co.uk | Please dm for removals
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