Preserving a President’s View

James Roosevelt purchased a house on 110 acres alongside the Hudson River in 1867. He and his son, FDR, cherished the vista from the south lawn, which provided the backdrop for many family, community, and political events. Eventually, this view encompassed the Poughkeepsie Railroad Bridge (1888) and the Mid-Hudson Bridge (1930). In 1943 the President wrote a memorandum outlining management of his property once the government took ownership of it. The document included a provision to preserve the vista to the river and to the south and west of the main house. Ironically, as part of his forest management experiments, FDR planted many of the trees that have obscured some of these views. Scenic Hudson, working with the National Park Service, has led efforts to protect the natural splendor of this area. They have conserved nearly 1,000 acres to ensure the magnificent vistas enjoyed today in this premier destination.

Hyde Park, New York · United States