The first internationally renowned author, Washington Irving, penned a line in his famous folk tale “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” to explain how Tarrytown came by its name. It states the name was given to the town by housewives who endured their husbands lingering at the tavern in the village when they traveled there for market days. Whether it was the quality of the ale served in this tavern or the town’s charm itself, Tarrytown Village has a long history of holding residents and visitors captive.
At the end of the 19th century, as millionaire industrialists John D. Rockefeller and Jay Gould sought idyllic locales for their family estates, they chose to build Tarrytown mansions. These men, who had the means to live anywhere in the world, decided to call Tarrytown home.
What was so alluring about this cozy Hudson River suburb? The “Millionaires’ Colony” may only be remembered in a few isolated estates that remain 21st-century style. But Tarrytown homes continue to be in demand, and the reasons people choose to live and raise their families here are as diverse as the people who populate this charming town.
1. History
Tarrytown began as a Dutch farming community in 1645. Here, settlers coexisted with peaceful North American Indians who lived nearby. It first rose to prominence during the American Revolution when a group of patriots apprehended British spy John Andres, who was in cahoots with Benedict Arnold. After the war, the community settled into a rural agricultural center. The town awoke again after the Civil War, as industrial developers looked favorably upon the Hudson River for power and transport of various goods, including wagons and carriages, silk, designer shoes, cider, and eventually Chevrolet and General Motors’ vehicles. With each new age of modernization, people came to Tarrytown by sailboat, steamboat, train, and eventually by automobile.
Despite tragic fires and dilapidation over time, history is alive and well in Tarrytown. Residents and visitors can admire the beautiful architecture in the remaining Tarrytown mansions, the Victorian-style houses, The Tarrytown Music Hall, and parks and monuments. Today, approximately one-third of the homes in Tarrytown predate World War II, so owning a home with a rich history is a possibility for anyone who appreciates its charm.
2. Beauty
Forbes Magazine named Tarrytown one of the “Prettiest Towns in America,” and no wonder, as the town is ideally situated. The Hudson River flows alongside the town, and the elevation rises above the river, with homes of grander size and affluence near the top. Plenty of parks and greenspaces entice people outdoors for exercise and play. The traditional “main street” downtown hearkens to a simpler time and a slower pace of life.
3. Diversity
The Education First School offers immersive English classes across professions, and this campus draws international students of all ages seeking to learn English for their careers or university experiences. Just over one-quarter of the local population speaks a language other than English, and the atmosphere is welcoming and inclusive toward people from diverse cultures.
4. Community
Residents cite, over and over, the great neighbors and the community activities as two of their favorite factors about living in Tarrytown. In contrast with the “every-man-for-himself” mentality and the bustling anonymity of the big city, neighbors greet and interact with one another, look out for each other, and share life as a community. In addition, Tarrytown helps to facilitate the small-town atmosphere with community events, festivals, and volunteer opportunities.
5. Schools
Photo courtesy of Irvington Union Free School District
Tarrytown’s school system is outstanding, with every school in the Irvington Union Free School District receiving an A-plus or A rating. Classes are moderate in size, the teachers are skillful and caring, and the community invests in education. As a result, families enroll their students with confidence that they will be well-equipped for college and beyond.
Families seeking a private or boarding school education apply for admission to the prestigious Hackley School, established in 1899.
6. Attractions
Tarrytown offers a full range of activities to suit every interest. The downtown area hosts unique local boutiques, a variety of restaurants, and art and antique galleries. The Hudson RiverWalk Park provides a scenic view of the river while residents enjoy outdoor recreation. Literature lovers visit Sunnyside Estate, the home of Washington Irving or Tappan Hill Mansion, once a residence of Mark Twain. Explore the grandiose Tarrytown mansion Lyndhurst, once home to Jay Gould and now a museum with a stunning rose garden. For a live theater experience in a former vaudeville venue, visit Tarrytown Music Hall.
7. Convenience
Located only twenty-five miles from New York City, Tarrytown homes provides a nice option for those looking to commute into the city for work. The North Metro Train Station brings residents directly into NYC. Others choose to commute by bus, a slightly longer route. Fortunately, the peaceful, small-town suburb is a lovely place to return to at the end of the day.
8. Homes
While expensive in Tarrytown, housing is diverse, and most people find they are able to choose a home that suits their budget and their family’s needs. Some luxurious estates have been developed in Wilson Park on the outskirts of town. Closer to downtown are a variety of historic homes, condominiums, modern waterfront apartments, and housing cooperatives. The houses are as diverse in price as they are in architectural style, so almost anyone can find a Tarrytown home to suit his lifestyle and budget.
If a quaint small town with plenty to do and easy access to New York City sounds like the kind of place you would like to call home, contact The Riolo Team. This experienced and knowledgeable local group of agents has carried on a family tradition of finding “homes” in the area for almost a century. Let them help you find the home of your dreams.
