Explore Country House Architecture and Life at Boscobel This Winter

Take a deep dive into country house architecture in suitably impressive surroundings at Boscobel House and Gardens in Garrison, N.Y. Originally built between 1804 and 1808, Boscobel is one of the country’s premier examples of Federal architecture. The property spans over 60 acres with woodland trails, garden paths, and dramatic views of the Hudson River.

You can soak in the picturesque atmosphere and increase your depth of knowledge with an upcoming talk, “Country House Culture: Architecture in the age of Jane Austen,” this March. The illustrated lecture by Executive Director and Curator Jennifer Carlquist is one program in a larger series of events at the historic property marking the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth.

While the noted author was born in England in December of 1775 and never travelled to the U.S., Carlquist will explore the houses that would have been part of Austen’s world and how the country houses of the period influenced American architecture. For movie buffs, the talk will touch on historic properties that have been used in film adaptations.

The lecture takes place on Sunday, March 15 from 2 to 3 p.m. The event is free, but registration is required.

Other programs in the series include a concert of 18th and early 19th century music on the museum’s 1815 square piano and a magic lantern show aimed at all ages.

For those who are curious about the history of Boscobel, which was reconstructed in the 20th century, there are special guided tours throughout the winter. In April of 2024 a ceiling collapse in the library caused significant damage, forcing the house to close for emergency repairs. Tours were restarted in the summer of 2025. They allow visitors to see restoration in action as the recovery work is not a quick process.

Details for all of Boscobel’s upcoming public programs can be found at their online event page. For those who just want to explore the scenic landscape, tickets are still required. Hours for the grounds and admission prices are detailed on the website.

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