The Bourne Mansion
History of the Mansion
... the Bourne Mansion covers about 75,000 square feet. The home was built between 1897 and 1900 for Frederick Bourne, the president of the Singer Sewing Machine Company. America's 11 largest historic homes and what they look like today USA Today
Frederick G. Bourne was the dynamic President of Singer Manufacturing Company who oversaw its rise to become, "perhaps the first modern multinational industrial enterprise of any nationality". Out of the office, he developed passions for German automobiles and more particularly yachts, serving as the Commodore of the New York Yacht Club and sponsoring entrants to the America's Cup Race.
In 1889, Bourne acquired Oakville Farm, a 438-acre parcel from local landowner William H. Ludlow, a former Speaker of the New York Assembly. Eight years later, he commissioned architect Ernest Flagg, a graduate of the École des Beaux-Arts, to design a grand residence for his expanding estate. Flagg, who would later design Singer Castle, combined Federal/Georgian-Revival exterior elements with a modern French Renaissance interior.
The resulting mansion, named Indian Neck Hall, was a massive, U-shaped structure with 110 rooms. Situated on low-lying ground near the Great South Bay, the estate required extensive land reclamation before construction began. The Bourne family moved into their new home in 1900, and continued improvements and expansions were made throughout the early 20th century.
The Bourne Mansion Today
The Bournes: A Legacy of Community
The Bournes were more than just residents of Oakdale; they were pillars of the local community. Renowned for their philanthropic spirit, the family hosted annual Christmas parties at the Hall, bringing joy to over 300 children each year.
With Gilded Age sophistication the Mansion continues to serve the community today. Given its proximity to New York City yet expansive footprint, it is a highly sought venue for elegant events.
Harrow New York continues The Bournes' legacy of community by hosting local organizations' meetings in the mansion such as the Oakdale Civic Association, the Oakdale Historical Society, and more.
