Historic Livingston Estate Lists for $8.35M

New York’s Livingston family is about as close as the USA gets to nobility. The storied dynasty was founded by Lord Robert Livingston, a businessman and politician in colonial New York, who was granted a 160,000-acre manor on the left bank of the Hudson River in 1686. His descendants have made their mark on US history from the Revolution to the present, including Declaration of Independence signer Philip Livingston, suffragette Elizabeth Cady Stanton, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, and both Presidents George Bush. Actress Jane Wyatt (Father Knows Best) and singer David Crosby of Crosby, Stills, and Nash are also scions of this unique family. Unlike in England, where entire manors passed to the firstborn son, the American system allowed the Livingston manor to be subdivided. As many as 30 mansions were built by different family members on their New York land, many eventually sold outside the family.

The magnificent Ulster Landing in Kingston, NY is one such mansion. Listed for $8.35 million, it offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of history. The beautifully preserved home spans 6,900 square feet, with six beds and seven baths. A classic Victorian built in 1860, it features arch-topped windows, a tower, a wraparound porch, and elaborate millwork.

The first floor is set up for entertaining, with exquisite formal living and dining rooms connected by arched doors. French doors open onto the porch, with peaceful river and garden views. The kitchen was a collaboration with a local artist, featuring a berry-red color scheme, an AGA range, multiple restored historic pieces, and plenty of space. The family room, office, library - complete with built-in bookshelves and striking indigo Antoinette Poisson wallpaper - and full bath/powder room complete the floor.

Upstairs, find two distinct wings, each with its own staircase. The owner’s wing includes the ample primary suite with vaulted ceilings, a fireplace, and arched French doors leading to a private balcony, plus the colorful children’s suite. Another balcony runs the length of the guest wing, connecting a double room with vaulted ceilings and an extra-large walk-in closet, and a single room with detailed millwork and playful wallpaper. Additional amenities include a gardening mudroom, a pantry with a walk-in refrigerator, and a laundry room with two sets of high-capacity washers and dryers. 

The 34-acre grounds offer a dynamic landscape, with flowering trees, walking paths, herb and flower gardens, and a pebble beach along the Hudson River. The heated gunite pool, spa, and pool terrace overlook the river, too. Two additional homes, the Playhouse and the Gatehouse, provide additional space for guests or staff. 

Kingston was New York State’s first capital, before it was burned by the British in 1777. In the 19th century, it became an important transport hub after the discovery of natural cement nearby. Today, the town of 24,000 residents is notable for its historic buildings, which include some that survived the 1777 fire. Ulster Landing is only minutes from Kingston’s historic district and fifteen minutes from the Rhinecliff Amtrak Station with access to New York City, Albany, and beyond.  

The listing is held by Raj Kumar of Four Seasons Sotheby's International Realty.

Photo Credit: The Lillie K. Team of Four Seasons Sotheby's International Realty.

Source: www.sothebysrealty.com