George Washington held a council of war in the mansion's octagonal room during the Revolutionary War.
Eliza Jumel was one of the wealthiest women in New York City during the 19th century and a known patron of the arts.
The mansion's design was influenced by the neoclassical movement, utilizing a layout that was highly sophisticated for the rural Washington Heights area at the time.
Lin-Manuel Miranda famously wrote portions of the musical 'Hamilton' while visiting the mansion.
The mansion survived urban encroachment and development in the 19th century because the Jumel estate was subdivided and sold, leaving the house on its current site.
The house features a rare, original 18th-century octagonal parlor, a design choice meant to provide panoramic views of the Hudson and Harlem Rivers.
The Morris-Jumel Mansion is the oldest surviving residence in the borough of Manhattan, originally constructed in 1765. Built by British Colonel Roger Morris as a summer villa, the house served as George Washington's headquarters during the 1776 Battle of Harlem Heights. It later became the home of Eliza Jumel, a wealthy socialite who married Aaron Burr within the mansion's parlor. The structure is an example of Palladian-style architecture, featuring a distinctive two-story portico. Today, it operates as a house museum preserved to reflect its occupancy across three distinct centuries. The interiors include authentic colonial-era furnishings and items belonging to the Jumel family.
The front portico and the sweeping view of the facade from the main path of Roger Morris Park.
Check the museum's events calendar for seasonal walking tours of the surrounding historic district.
Bring a camera, as the mansion allows non-flash photography of the period rooms.
Visit the small garden area behind the house for a quiet view of the preserved grounds.
Attempting to visit on days when the museum is closed for private events or maintenance, which can occur without extended notice.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
No food or drink allowed inside the house; do not touch period furniture or artifacts.
