Reid Castle, Manhattanville College, 2900 Purchase St

Reid Hall was once considered one of the most revered estates in Westchester County, even boasting the first to have electricity and a telephone. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 [1], it is Harrison’s most documented property. It has housed some interesting owners and notable guests including the King of Thailand. Built 1864, stagecoach king Benjamin Holladay bought it for him and his wife and called it Ophir Farm. His opulence and extravagance disintegrated during a financial crash in 1873, and its next owner never took residence, and it was eventually auctioned it off after his death. Its next owner, Whitelaw Reid, was the owner of The New York Tribune. It was The Reid’s who transformed this estate with a major renovation to include a telephone and electricity. A devastating fire destroyed their mansion in 1888. The Reid’s acquired four architects to rebuild the castle, and re-named it Ophir Hall when it was completed. It was at this time that Whitelaaw Reid was a named Benjamin Harrison’s vice-presidential nominee, as it was announced during a speech on this property. They were unsuccessful in their bid.

The Reid’s transformed the home with bright colors, yellow marble from Africa and pink marble from Georgia. Stained glass illuminated the central staircase and reception rooms included elements from France’s Chateau de Villennes. A wing was later added and this time English influences were seen. Bookcases and paneling were incorporated that were salvaged from the Tudorstyle Great Library and windows from the Salisbury Church. Reid unfortunately died before he could see it finished.

It is now a popular wedding venue.

[1] “United States Department of the Interior. National Park Service. National Register of Historic Places. Reid Hall.” National Archives and Records Administration, n.d. https://catalog.archives.gov/id/75323191

Learn more from the Purchase Environmental Protective Association (PEPA).

Learn more from the Manhattannville College visitor guide and AmericanAristocracy.com