This $6.5M pre-Revolutionary War Hudson Valley home is historic and turnkey, with a celebrity past

September 7, 2022

Photo credit: Andrea B. Swenson

The Dutch farmhouse-style home at 35 Washington Spring Road in Snedens Landing–known as Ding Dong House because of a large bell that once adorned its rooftop–was built by John Sneden, whose family founded the ferry that serves the surrounding town of Palisades. Since then it has also been the residence of celebrities from Aaron Copland to Uma Thurman and Ethan Hawke. Built in 1750 with an addition that dates from 1860, this historic home is a peerless part of the celebrity-approved Hudson Valley enclave’s history and has been updated with 21st-century infrastructure. It’s now on the market for $6,500,000.

Cozy and charming interiors recall the provenance of this unique property. Just outside, beautifully-landscaped grounds and gardens, porches, patios, a pergola, and a pool surround the house, all with stunning Hudson River views.

Photo credit: Anthony Tagliaferri

Also known as the Watson House for later owners who donated their book collection to make it the town’s first public library, the home’s oldest section was constructed using sandstone blocks from a nearby quarry. The house and property recently received a $2.5 million restoration, giving it every 21st-century convenience while preserving its early charm.

Within are three living rooms/dens, three bedrooms with en suite baths, four working fireplaces, a new slate roof, and period moldings and doors. The house is being offered fully furnished, meaning a fine collection of 18th- and 19th-century antiques, furnishings, and Hudson River art are already in place for the new owner.

A traditional kitchen with bespoke millwork in the classic English style is the heart of the home. An adjacent dining space is framed by a fireplace and the restored wide-plank pine flooring that can be found throughout.

Bedrooms are cozy and light-filled, highlighted with color and antique furnishings. Baths are both charming and luxurious, with period highlights and high-end materials and fixtures.

The surrounding yards are landscaped in an enchanting style that blends wild meadow gardens with manicured plantings, highlighted by massive stone walls and steps. Entertaining spaces include arbors, stone patios, and porches. A stunning pool overlooks the Hudson, accompanied by an outdoor shower and plenty of poolside space. A sophisticated security system protects the property and grounds.

Photo credit: Anthony Tagliaferri

Standing only three houses from the Hudson River with easy access, the home was built on a hill that affords it unbeatable views of the water and surrounding hills of Westchester. The Snedens Landing Tennis Association private tennis court is just steps away. Surrounded by two state parks, the community offers hiking trails and kayaking on the Hudson.

[Listing details: 35 Washington Spring Road at Sotheby’s International Realty by Richard Ellis]

RELATED:

Photo credit: Andrea B. Swenson except where noted