A Cooper-Hewitt New Jersey Estate - Ringwood Manor
Ringwood Manor became the Gilded Age summer estate of partners Peter Cooper and Abram Hewitt and their families in 1853. The property was an industrial site which Mrs. Hewitt and her daughter, Eleanor, transformed into an impressive country estate. The ground posses a mysterious old world charm which includes a reflecting pool. The original house on the property, Ryerson House, went through several alterations and two additions. When completed Ringwood Manor had 51 rooms, 22 fireplaces and 13 bathrooms.
The estate grounds include pillars from the old New York Life building, a fountain, sphinx-like sculptures and statues from France, gates from the Astor family home, and gate posts from Columbia University.
Unfortunately, interior photography is not permitted, so you will have to go and experience it for yourself, and it is worth the trip.
Here is what caught my eye; I hope you enjoy!
Do you like the images posted?
Click here to explore the shop.
In 1936, Erskine Hewitt donated Ringwood Manor, its contents on 582 acres were to the State of New Jersey to be used as a house museum and a state park.
While you are in the area you should try and visit the New Jersey Botanical Gardens. The Botanical Gardens contain Skylands Manor, built for Clarence McKenzie Lewis between 1924 and 1927 in the Tudor-style.
Skylands Manor is utilized as a wedding venue so tours are done only on selected days and times. Unfortunately, there was a function going on the day I visited, so I could not get inside.
The landscaping near the house is formal and as you move away it becomes less formal and then becomes more undeveloped.
What you should know:
One price includes parking, gardens and guided house tour of Ringwood Manor.
Open seasonally, check the website for days and hours of operation.
There are walking trails.
Restrooms are available.
No interior photography is allowed.
You could spend a couple of hours to an entire day.
Locations: Ringwood Manor 1304 Sloatsburg Road, Ringwood, NJ 07456
Skylands Manor 2 Morris Road, Ringwood, NJ 07456
For more information: Ringwood Manor and Skylands Manor
