Located just over an hour north of New York City, in Brewster, New York, the Delancey Street New York facility offers a distinctive setting for its residents. Spanning 50 acres, the property is home to Morningthorpe Manor, a grand castle listed on the state historic register. This impressive structure boasts 22 rooms, 13 fireplaces, turrets, and is enclosed by a stone wall, providing a unique and historic backdrop for the rehabilitation program.
The grounds also feature The Gables, the oldest building dating back to 1773, now housing male residents. Adjacent to it, the castle’s construction began in 1860 and was completed in 1894. Seth B. Howe, a real estate magnate and accountant for the Ringling Brothers/Barnum & Bailey Circus, was the owner and builder of this magnificent property. Interestingly, the Carriage House once served as housing for circus animals at the turn of the century, adding another layer to the rich history of this New York location.
Beyond the Manor and Gables, other notable buildings on the Delancey Street New York property include the Spring Cottage and the Clock Tower, which now houses various offices. The Stone Cutter Shed stands as a testament to the castle’s construction, where granite stones were meticulously shaped. Inside the castle, hardwood floors and intricate woodwork, continually maintained by residents, reflect the dedication to preserving the building’s original splendor.
Upon acquiring the property in 1980, Delancey Street residents discovered the original plans and undertook a complete renovation and restoration project, bringing Morningthorpe Manor back to its former grandeur. This hands-on restoration is emblematic of the skills residents gain at Delancey Street New York. They engage in vocational training programs that encompass culinary arts, moving and trucking, hand-crafted terrariums, ceramics, and woodworking. Furthermore, residents develop expertise in construction, accounting, automotive repair, antique refinishing, and even seasonal skills in Christmas sales and decorating, equipping them for successful reintegration and future careers.
Delancey Street New York in Brewster offers a remarkable environment for personal transformation and skill development. The historic castle and grounds not only provide a unique living space but also serve as a tangible project for residents to contribute to, fostering a sense of accomplishment and pride as they rebuild their lives.
