About The Mansion

Built in 1860 as a two story Shingle Style Victorian for William Matheson, the showhouse was later owned by Albert A. Stewart, a director and stockholder in the Barnum & Bailey Circus and friend of New York City Mayor William Gaynor. Mr. Stewart was a first class passenger aboard the Titanic where he met his untimely fate.

In 1914, James W. Lane, owner of J.H. Lane and Co., an important cotton merchandising firm in New York, purchased the show house and dubbed it ‘Suffolk House’. He had the main house moved back from the water and up the hill to its present day location to avoid high winds from the sound.

Under the direction of Arthur Little, a well known architect from Boston, the exterior of the house was transformed into a Greek Revival. Extensive alterations were completed.  The original shingle exterior was stuccoed and  some of the outside porches were enclosed. The majestic front elevation is now graced by 20 foot tall fluted Corinthian columns.

The revamping of the interior was no less dramatic. The most famous interior designer of all time, Elsie De Wolfe, considered the “Mother of Interior Design” decorated the living spaces. Much of her work remains today, including her beautiful trellis work, a rooster mosaic, a working marble fountain, a Chinoserie paper mural, carved marble fireplaces, and even some gilded cornices.

A massive restoration has again taken place over the last several years. Updated plumbing, electric, septic and other systems have been added. Plaster moldings and walls have been restored, and floors have been refinished.

The show house boasts 10 foot ceilings, wide planked and pegged teak wood flooring. Ornate plaster moldings, wainscotting and French paneling, carved marble fireplaces, and 19 sets of French doors.