Hudson River Villas

Devotees of architecture, photography and regional history will enjoy this magnificently illustrated book documenting 123 residences built along the Hudson River Valley over the last 300 years. The authors present a complete textual history of each mansion from original architect and occupant to its present-day function, accompanied by interior and exterior drawings and photographs culled from contemporary and historical sources. For some estates, original landscape designs and floorplans are provided, plus illustrations highlighting features such as staircases, fireplaces and ceiling paintings. Readers familiar with the region will recognize Washington Irving's Tudor farmhouse, Sunnyside, and the historical Van Cortlandt Manor House in Croton-on-Hudson, but will be certain to make some new discoveries such as the underground chambers at Rockefeller's Kykuit mansion and the eerie ruins of Bennerman's Castle on deserted Pollepel Island. Organized in geographical sequence and accompanied by a detachable map, the book also serves as a visitor's guide. (March 20)