Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum | Bronx

The Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum is a historic estate located in the northern section of Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx, New York. Built between 1836 and 1842, it is a well-preserved example of a Greek Revival mansion and the last remaining 19th-century estate in the Bronx. The mansion has been converted into a museum and is dedicated to interpreting the history of the estate, the Bronx's cultural evolution, and the legacy of the Pell family.

History and Architecture

The Bartow-Pell Mansion was originally built by Robert Bartow, a descendant of Thomas Pell, who purchased the land from the Siwanoy tribe in 1654. The Pell family maintained ownership of the estate for generations before it was passed to the Bartows in the 19th century.

The mansion itself was designed in the Greek Revival style, which was popular in the United States during the early 19th century, particularly for public buildings and grand homes. The design of the mansion includes a symmetrical facade, grand proportions, and classical details. Inside, you will find beautiful period furnishings that have been carefully restored to their original appearance. Notable architectural features include the freestanding spiral staircase, which is a dramatic element in the main entryway, and the spacious, elegant parlors that reflect the social and architectural tastes of the time.

Over the years, the mansion's estate grew to include extensive grounds, including gardens, a carriage house, and a family burial plot for the Pell family.

Gardens and Grounds

The Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum is not just about the mansion itself; the surrounding gardens and grounds also hold historical significance. Between 1915 and 1918, the estate's gardens were redesigned in a formal terraced style by the architectural firm Delano & Aldrich. The gardens are arranged in descending terraces, each divided into quadrants and enclosed by masonry walls and wrought-iron fencing.

At the center of the garden is a square pool with a Cupid fountain. The gardens are beautifully maintained and have become a peaceful refuge for visitors. Additionally, the estate features a chestnut grove and a hiking trail, known as the Siwanoy Trail, which offers visitors an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area while learning about the native Siwanoy tribe.

Museum Exhibits and Educational Programs

The museum's interior has been carefully restored to reflect the home as it would have appeared in the 19th century. The rooms contain authentic period furniture and other artifacts, giving visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Bartow and Pell families. The furnishings represent a mix of styles from the 19th century, including pieces from the Greek Revival period, which was very popular at the time the mansion was built.

The Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum offers various educational programs and exhibits that connect visitors to the area's history. These include:

Special Exhibitions: The museum hosts temporary exhibits that delve deeper into the history of the mansion, the people who lived there, and the surrounding area.

Guided Tours: Visitors can take guided tours of the mansion and grounds, where knowledgeable docents explain the history, architecture, and significance of the estate.

Educational Programs: The museum offers various programs for school groups and families, where visitors can learn about the life of the Pell family, the architecture of the mansion, and the broader historical context of the time period.

The mansion and its grounds serve as an important cultural resource, allowing visitors to connect with the rich history of the Bronx and the families that helped shape it.

Visiting Information

Address:

895 Shore Road, Pelham Bay Park, Bronx, NY 10464

Hours of Operation:

Mansion Tours: Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM

Gardens and Grounds: Open daily from 8:30 AM until dusk

Admission:

Adults: $15

Seniors (65+)/Students: $12

Guided Tours:

Available at 12:15 PM, 1:15 PM, 2:15 PM, and 3:15 PM on days the mansion is open.

Contact:

(718) 885-1461

For more information, visitors can also visit the official website of the museum.

Getting There

The Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum is easily accessible via public transportation:

Subway: Take the 6 train to Pelham Bay Park Station, which is about 15 minutes away by foot from the mansion.

Bus: From the subway station, transfer to the Bee-Line Bus #45, which stops near the museum entrance.

Visitors can also drive to the museum, and there is parking available on-site.

Conclusion

The Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the history of the Bronx during the 19th century. From its historic Greek Revival architecture to its beautiful gardens, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into a bygone era. Whether you're interested in architecture, history, or nature, this museum provides a peaceful and enriching experience for people of all ages.