Wykagyl Historic Sites and Natural Landmarks
Wykagyl is a region rich in American heritage and natural beauty, offering a diverse array of landmarks that span from the Revolutionary War to the golden age of American illustration. From the preserved homes of political visionaries to expansive nature conservancies, the area serves as a living museum of Westchester County's evolution.
Key Facts
- Thomas Paine Cottage is a National Historic Landmark and museum.
- The Israel Secord House served as the headquarters for British commander Sir Lord William Howe in 1776.
- Lake Isle is the only inland body of water in lower Westchester County used for swimming and boating.
- Ward Acres features 62 acres of forest, meadows, and historic stables.
- The Brewster Schoolhouse is among the oldest structural relics in Westchester County.
Historic Sites of Wykagyl
The Legacy of Thomas Paine
Wykagyl preserves the memory of Thomas Paine, the influential American pamphleteer and Revolutionary War hero, through several dedicated sites. The Thomas Paine Cottage, built in 1793 after a fire destroyed his previous residence, now stands as a museum and National Historic Landmark. The cottage was relocated to its current site on land that was once part of Paine's 300-acre farm.
Complementing the cottage is the Thomas Paine Memorial Museum, constructed in 1925. This facility houses the extensive library and museum collection of the Thomas Paine National Historical Association.
The area also features the Thomas Paine Monument, further commemorating his contributions to American independence.
The Israel Secord House
Located at 1337 North Avenue at Quaker Ridge Road, the Israel Secord House dates back to the 1770s. This site holds significant military history; during the Revolutionary War, Sir Lord William Howe, the commander of British forces, established his headquarters here before leading his troops to the Battle of White Plains in October 1776.
The property was once known for its "hanging tree," an 18th-century oak used for executing prisoners during the war. While the tree was cut down after being struck by lightning in the 1950s, the house retains many historical elements despite various remodels. In the 20th century, the land was owned by sculptor Charles Niehaus and horticulturist Regina Niehaus before parts of the farm were developed into the Bonnie Crest neighborhood. The home was later occupied by packaging executive Daniel F. Sheehy and his family from 1946 to 1970, and it received a New Rochelle Heritage Award in 2008.
Other Notable Landmarks
- The Brewster Schoolhouse: An 18th-century structure measuring 15 by 20 feet, recognized as one of the oldest structural relics in the county.
- Norman Rockwell's Studio: The home and workspace where the famous artist produced much of his iconic work for the Saturday Evening Post.
- St. John's Wilmot Church: A historic Episcopal parish located at the intersection of North Avenue and Wilmot Road, an area formerly known as "Cooper's Corner."
Parks and Recreation
Nature Conservancies and Hiking
Wykagyl offers extensive green spaces for outdoor enthusiasts. Ward Acres encompasses 62 acres of wild lawns, meadows, and forests divided into four distinct sections: North, Northwest, Central, and Southeast Woods. The park also contains historic cemeteries and horse stables.
For those seeking longer treks, the Leatherstocking Trail is a 2-mile inter-municipal path connecting New Rochelle and Mamaroneck. It is part of the larger Colonial Greenway Trail, linking to Saxon Woods County Park and Twin Lakes/Nature Study.
Twin Lakes Park and Nature Study Woods provide 220 acres of diverse terrain along the Hutchinson River, featuring marshes, ponds, and a network of foot trails.
Waterfronts and Leisure
Sheldrake Lake, a former reservoir, has been transformed into a 60-acre park and nature conservancy dedicated to local ecology. Meanwhile, Lake Isle serves as a premier recreational hub. As the only inland body of water in lower Westchester County permitting swimming and boating, it is home to indigenous fish such as large mouth bass, perch, catfish, eel, sunfish, and shiners. The lake also features a horse trail with two bridges, added during the 1988 reconstruction of the Hutchinson River Parkway.
Additionally, the Wykagyl Country Club is a prominent private facility known for hosting Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) tournaments.
Summary of Wykagyl Points of Interest
| Site Name | Category | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Thomas Paine Cottage | Historic | National Historic Landmark museum |
| Israel Secord House | Historic | Former British HQ (1776) |
| Lake Isle | Recreation | Swimming, boating, and equestrian trails |
| Ward Acres | Nature | 62 acres of forest and meadows |
| Twin Lakes Park | Nature | 220 acres of woods and marshland |
| Brewster Schoolhouse | Historic | 18th-century structural relic |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Thomas Paine Cottage?
The cottage was built in 1793 and now serves as a museum and National Historic Landmark, commemorating the life of the Revolutionary War hero and pamphleteer Thomas Paine.
Who used the Israel Secord House during the Revolutionary War?
Sir Lord William Howe, the commander of British forces, used the farmhouse as his headquarters before the Battle of White Plains in October 1776.
What makes Lake Isle unique in lower Westchester County?
Lake Isle is the only inland body of water in the region that is used for both swimming and boating.
How large is the Twin Lakes Park and Nature Study Woods area?
Together, these sites comprise 220 acres of fields, lakes, ponds, marsh, and woods along the Hutchinson River.
What is the Leatherstocking Trail?
It is a 2-mile inter-municipal hiking trail between New Rochelle and Mamaroneck that connects to the Colonial Greenway Trail and Saxon Woods County Park.