The Mills Mansion

Staatsburgh State Dutchess County Historic Site
"An Afternoon in the Past" - Located within the boundaries of Mills-Norrie State Park, the Mills Mansion (also known as Staatsburgh) was built in 1832 and greatly expanded in the 1890s by Stanford White. On the outside, the home looks similar to the other historic estates located within Dutchess County. On the inside, it is like nothing I have ever seen, in America.

Home to Ogden Mills and his wife, Ruth Livingston Mills, Staatsburgh was remodeled and transformed into a 65-room mansion with 14 bathrooms, elaborately carved and gilded furniture, fine oriental rugs, silk fabrics, and a collection of art objects from Europe, ancient Greece and the Far East. Every inch of this home left me feeling as though I was walking through the Royal Palace in Madrid, Spain, again! From the paintings on the ceilings to the mirrored doors, I felt as though I had stepped back into the Gilded Age! It is simply like no other mansion here in Dutchess County!

I highly suggest taking the Downtown Abbey Tour for a different twist! My tour guide was beyond animated and full of interesting stories, sometimes impersonating Ruth or one of her daughters! I was blown away when we walked into the massive dining room. The décor and place settings were absolutely beautiful and extravagant. We were told of a story where guests were “Cordially Invited” to a dog dinner party. Special benches were apparently placed next to chairs at the table to allow both dog and owner to enjoy their meals together – of course both parties were dressed to impress!

In addition to the stunning insides of the mansion, I was taken aback by the land and view of the Hudson River. As the weather slowly, but surely, becomes warmer, I suggest adding in some walking time to your visit at Staatsburgh. The land is within the Mills Norrie State Park which allows for a serene wooded area, with glimpses of the river, and is ideal for walking, jogging, hiking, and cycling.

by Joanna Sheldon, Public Relations Assistant/Marist College

Old Post Road  Staatsburgh, NY 12580  Tel: 845-889-8851
Website: www.millsmansion.org

Hours: April – October: Thursday – Sunday 11am-5pm
Closed November until day after Thanksgiving for special holiday programs
January–March: Saturdays + Sundays 11am-4pm
Fees: Adults $8   Children 12 and under free
Students $6   Seniors/Groups $6