The Ruins in the Hudson - Bannerman Castle

Historic Sites

Mar 4

Pictured here is the dock in Beacon, New York, where the trip to Bannerman Castle begins.

Pictured here are the remnants of the castle that Bannerman built, viewed through the rain and clouds.

Pollepel Island

Did you ever notice a castle on an island in the Hudson River between Cold Spring and Beacon, NY? Well, I did, and it piqued my interest, and I wanted to know more. I learned it was Pollepel Island, and the castle belonged to a Scottish guy named Frank Bannerman, who had a military surplus business in Brooklyn. Storing ammunition, weapons, explosives and gunpowder in a densely populated area like Brooklyn, was causing concern among his neighbors, which prompted Frank to look at other storage solutions. While canoeing, Bannerman discovered Pollepei Island and bought it in 1900. Construction on a warehouse, that he personally designed to resemble a Scottish castle, began in 1901. Over the next 17 years Bannerman built multiple storage warehouses.

Here is what caught my eye. I hope you enjoy!

Do you like the images posted?
Click here to explore the shop.

As we get closer, the wall supports are visible.

A view from the top of the stairs

The Pollepel Island provided the perfect spot for Bannerman to safely store his wares.

The castle stands majestically overlooking the Hudson River.

Close up of castle details

An outbuilding

The is the first glimpse of the home Frank built for his family as a weekend or summer retreat.

Frank’s wife, Helen, was an avid gardener, and remnants of her gardens still exist today.

Frank, who designed both the cottage and the castles, had no formal architectural design training. Some of his sketches are on display in the cottage.

Turrets and round windows are incorporated into the second level of the home.

You can explore the first floor of the cottage and view drawings, items found on the site, and information about the Island and its owner.

Another view of the eclectic residence

The view from the top of the hill

Looking back as we head away from the Island

After Bannerman died in 1918, construction ceased. An explosion occurred in 1920 destroying parts of the buildings. In the 1950’s, the ferry boat that serviced the Island sank, and the island was left vacant. New York State then purchased the island in 1967. A fire in the 1960’s weakened the structure and a large portion of the facade collapsed in 2009.

Today, Bannerman Island Trust runs the tours and maintains the remaining buildings in conjunction with New York State.

What you should know:

One price admission covers transportation and a 1.5 hour guided tour with free time.
There are other tours - like day tours, or arrive in your own canoe / kayak.
Check the website for ticket purchase options.
There are walking trails.
It’s a 30 minute boat ride to and from Beacon.
Advanced booking is required.
It is a 72-step climb from the dock.
Restrooms are available
Wear comfortable shoes.
The tours take place rain or shine (as you can see from my visit in the pouring rain).
Parking is available near the dock.

Location:

Tour boat leaves from Beacon dock.

For more information: Bannerman Castle