Historic Environments

Just off of Route 9, you’ll find Locust Grove, a National Historic Landmark that includes a mansion that was once inhabited by Samuel Morse, the inventor of the telegraph and Morse code, along with expansive grounds with flowers tended to by volunteers, great views of the Hudson river, several pet cemeteries, and driving roads that were converted into hiking trails for public use. Thanks to Ken Snodgrass, Executive Director of Locust Grove, we came away with more knowledge about the estate, its history, and inhabitants.

Locust Grove is an independent, non-profit that is self-supporting. In 1847, Samuel Morse bought the land and hired Alexander Jackson Davis, famous nineteenth century architect, to design and draft the house. After Morse’s death in 1872, the house was given up and was later rented by the Young family in the 1890’s. One of the Young’s daughters, Annette, would live at Locust Grove for the rest of her life, ending in 1975 with her passing. Annette Young bought land surrounding the estate in order to protect it from encroaching residential and commercial development in a time when more of the neighboring estates were being demolished. Annette Young was an intriguing character who was essential in establishing Locust Grove as it exists today. Thanks to the robust Locust Grove collection, the estate is restored based on the photographs the families have kept and the house still has the original furniture.

In addition to the house, there are expansive grounds that serve as a park. Because the house is built on a cliff near the Hudson River, there are great views which newlyweds take advantage of for photographs. There are several trails that range in difficulty, some of which go right up to the Hudson. Go to Locust Grove to learn about the vibrant history of the mansion’s inhabitants and soak up the views!