Designated December 14, 2010
Overlooking the Hudson River in the Riverdale neighborhood of the Bronx, the Alderbrook House is a rare example of a mid-19thcentury Hudson River villa in New York City. Probably built by Oscar C. and Ada Woodworth Ferris between 1858 and 1859, Alderbrook is one of the two oldest villas in The Park-Riverdale, an exclusive residential development begun in 1856.
Influenced by the designs and publications of Andrew Jackson Downing and Calvert Vaux, Alderbrook is a picturesque residence, exhibiting both Italianate and Gothic Revival characteristics. Remarkably well-preserved, the house retains its generous veranda, gabled roofline featuring deep flared eaves, brackets, and gable trusses, and tall brick chimneys with grouped flues and decorative niches. Few Hudson River villas remain in New York City; making Alderbrook truly unique.
*Excerpt from the Landmarks Preservation Commission ALDERBROOK HOUSE, 4715 Independence Avenue Designation Report