Historically,
Croton Heights is important. It is towards the north end of the original
Stephanus Van Cortlandt grant where in 1740 Richardson Davenport built
the old manor house which he called Davenport's, and in 1776 rebuilt
it to its present colonial mass. In 1781 it was taken over by Washington
for Christopher Greene's Headquarters and had a brief but tragic part
in the revolution. Today, known as Greenehold, the solid dignified structure
bears graciously its modern changes for comfort and convenience.
Other
substantial buildings, indicating the sturdy stuff of the inhabitants
who made a comfortable living off the land a hundred or more years ago,
include a twenty-five room house which has been remodeled, modernized
and operated as Croton Heights Inn during the summer months. It is
hoped that the War's close will encourage normal conditions before too
long and that the Inn will be open the year round.
Friends
of the Inn who return year after year come for rest and relaxation;
for quiet to write, paint or compose music. They come to study out of
door life and renew the pleasant acquaintance of people with similar
tastes. One and all are glad to leave the increasing complexities of
the city for the simple, healthful freedom of the country in its unspoiled
state.
The
real estate development in progress at Croton Heights has extended to
forty-six summer and year round homes, owned by a group of practical
idealists who are in sympathy withthe rather conservative policies of
the place and who would like to see them continue. Each has a beautiful
location with a house that fits the site and seems to have grown out
of it.
DISTANCE
FROM NEW YORK 35 MILES
ROUTE
- By automobile. Saw Mill River Parkway into Bronx Parkway Extension.
Across the bridge over Croton Lake turn sharply to right into Route
129. At the first light, turn left into Route 118 and continue for a
mile to a stone entrance to Croton Heights on the right.
By
train. From Grand Central--Hudson River Division of the New York Central
with a quick transfer to the Putnam Division at Highbridge. From Sedgwick
Avenue or Van Cortlandt Park--Putnam Division with no transfer.