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Lispenard-Rodman-Davenport House

Lispenard-Rodman-Davenport House New Rochelle

Lispenard-Rodman-Davenport House

If you find yourself wandering through the scenic landscapes of New Rochelle, New York, a visit to the Lispenard-Rodman-Davenport House is a journey through time you won’t want to miss. Nestled on the picturesque Davenport Neck peninsula, this historic residence is not just the oldest residential structure in New Rochelle but also a testament to the rich tapestry of American history. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986, the house stands as a silent witness to the evolution of architectural styles and the lives of the families who called it home.

The Early Beginnings

The story of the Lispenard-Rodman-Davenport House begins in 1708 when Antoine Lispenard purchased a significant portion of the peninsula from Jacob Leisler's son. Lispenard, a Huguenot refugee, saw the potential in this land nestled between New Rochelle Creek and Long Island Sound. Six years later, he acquired the remaining half of the peninsula and set about establishing his homestead. He constructed a charming stone house of one-and-a-half stories, complete with a wide porch formed by the extending eaves of the front roof. Nearby, he also built a dam and a tidal gristmill, which became vital to the local economy.

Transformation and Expansion

In 1732, Joseph Rodman purchased the property and significantly expanded the house. By doubling its size, Rodman laid the foundation for what would become a grand residence. The house changed hands again in 1776, during the American Revolutionary War, when John R. Myers owned it. During this tumultuous period, the British used the house as a hospital for their wounded soldiers, adding a layer of historical significance to its walls.

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The Davenport Era

In 1784, the property came into the possession of the Davenport family, marking the beginning of a long and transformative era. The Davenports made several modifications to the house, reflecting the changing architectural tastes and needs of the time. The original roof was replaced with a modified mansard roof, topped with a cupola in the 1860s. This period also saw the addition of a kitchen wing, continuing the stone fabric and gable roof of the main house. The house’s 20-inch-thick walls, 16-inch-wide pine floorboards, and a massive 5.5-foot-wide fireplace in the kitchen are just a few of the features that highlight its historic charm.

War and Peace

The Lispenard-Rodman-Davenport House was not just a peaceful residence; it also played a role in the War of 1812. Local militia guards were stationed on the neck to prevent a British landing, leading to the locally renowned Battle of Davenport's Neck. Although the battle was more of a false alarm than a significant military engagement, it added to the lore of the house and its surroundings.

Architectural Evolution

As the 19th century progressed, the house underwent further changes. Newberry Davenport, Jr. added the kitchen wing, and the house was dramatically altered to conform to the estate tastes of the time. A gambrel-roofed second floor, porches, and interior changes introduced modern ideas of healthful living into the venerable structure. The principal rooms were embellished with new trim, and windows were extended to floor level on the piazza. Despite these changes, the rear and kitchen rooms retained their original character.

The Iselin Era and Preservation

Upon Anna Davenport's death in 1913, the property was acquired by Adrian Iselin's daughter, Georgine. She added Colonial Revival style paneling and trim in the parlor and hall, ensuring the house retained its historic charm while embracing modern comforts. With her residence, the house ceased to evolve and became a cherished local historic relic.

The Grounds and Surroundings

The house stands on what would have been the highest rise of ground on Davenport Neck, offering stunning views of Long Island Sound. The surrounding lawns, mature plantings, and dry-laid stone retaining walls create a serene and picturesque setting. An early well house and an 1800s kitchen wing contribute to the property's historic significance. In 1968, a 1750s frame barn was moved from a neighboring Rodman family property to a site west of the house, adding another layer of historical intrigue.

Architectural Significance

The Lispenard-Rodman-Davenport House is a physical manifestation of the two-hundred-year evolution of an important regional house form. It embodies the distinctive characteristics of its type, period, and method of construction at each of its three major architectural stages. From a pioneer stone structure to a mid-eighteenth-century Dutch vernacular farmhouse, and finally to a Victorian period suburban country seat, the house reflects the changing lifestyles and design tastes of New Rochelle as it grew from a coastal settlement to a maritime center and residential satellite of New York City.

In conclusion, a visit to the Lispenard-Rodman-Davenport House is a journey through the annals of American history. It offers a glimpse into the lives of the prominent families who shaped New Rochelle and provides a unique opportunity to explore the architectural evolution of a historic residence. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy a beautiful and serene setting, the Lispenard-Rodman-Davenport House is a must-visit destination.

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