Ten Broeck Mansion | Albany

The Ten Broeck Mansion is a significant historic house located at 9 Ten Broeck Place in Albany, New York. Built between 1797 and 1798, it was originally constructed for Brigadier General Abraham Ten Broeck and his wife, Elizabeth Van Rensselaer, members of two of Albany’s most prominent families.

Historical Background

Abraham Ten Broeck was a notable figure in Albany and American history. He served as a delegate to the Second Continental Congress during the Revolutionary War, was a brigadier general in the militia, and held important civic roles including Mayor of Albany and the first president of the Bank of Albany. The mansion reflects his social status and prominence.

The mansion was initially called “Prospect,” named for its commanding views overlooking the Hudson River and the surrounding landscape. After Ten Broeck’s death in 1810, the mansion passed through various owners and underwent several architectural changes. In the 1830s, Greek Revival features were added, and in the 1850s, Victorian-style elements were incorporated, reflecting changing tastes over the decades.

In 1848, Thomas Worth Olcott, a wealthy banker and civic leader, purchased the mansion and renamed it “Arbor Hill.” The Olcott family maintained the home until 1948, when it was donated to the Albany County Historical Association (ACHA) to preserve it as a historic site.

Architectural Features

The Ten Broeck Mansion is primarily Federal in style, characterized by symmetry, classic proportions, and elegant simplicity. The later additions of Greek Revival and Victorian details give it a unique architectural blend:

The Federal style is evident in the balanced façade, refined woodwork, and grand yet restrained interior spaces.

Greek Revival elements, added in the 1830s, include columns and decorative moldings inspired by classical Greek architecture.

Victorian influences, added in the mid-19th century, brought decorative flourishes and stylistic updates in keeping with the period’s fashion.

Inside, visitors can see original woodwork, period furnishings, and architectural details that highlight the mansion’s evolution and the lifestyle of its elite occupants.

The Hidden Wine Cellar

One of the mansion’s most remarkable discoveries was a hidden wine cellar uncovered in 1977. The cellar contained a collection of rare and valuable wines dating back to the 19th century. This find attracted significant attention and was even featured in the New York Times. The wine cellar adds a fascinating layer to the mansion’s story, illustrating the refined tastes and social customs of its past residents.

Grounds and Gardens

The mansion sits on landscaped grounds that include formal gardens maintained by the Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Master Gardeners. These gardens provide a peaceful and beautifully maintained setting that complements the historic nature of the mansion and offers visitors a pleasant outdoor experience.

Current Use and Visitor Experience

Today, the Ten Broeck Mansion operates as a museum under the Albany County Historical Association. It is open seasonally, with visiting hours typically from May through October. Visitors can explore the mansion through guided tours, which highlight its architecture, history, and the lives of the families who lived there.

Admission fees support the preservation and educational programs of the mansion. Special events and programs are held throughout the year, including:

Living history days that bring the mansion’s past to life with reenactments and demonstrations.

Garden parties and seasonal celebrations on the grounds.

Wine tastings celebrating the mansion’s historic cellar.

The Jansen/Cohen Summer Concert Series featuring local musicians.

Importance

The Ten Broeck Mansion is a vital cultural and historical landmark in Albany. It offers insight into late 18th- and 19th-century architecture, the lifestyle of prominent New Yorkers, and the social and political history of the region. Its preservation allows visitors and scholars to connect with Albany’s rich past through a tangible and beautifully maintained site.