The place FDR always called home

The front of Springwood, the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt. | Photo by Dean DiMarzo

Franklin D. Roosevelt was President of the United States from 1933 until his death in 1945. | Photo from the Library of Congress

The Hudson Valley’s most famous historic site, the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt, our 32nd president of the United States, is located in Hyde Park, N.Y. and operated by the National Park Service. “Springwood” was originally a 17-room clapboard farmhouse, purchased by FDR’s father, James Roosevelt in 1867. FDR was born here in 1882 and grew up on the property riding ponies, sledding, and learning how to be, in the words of his mother, “straight and honorable, just and kind, an upstanding American.”  

FDR enlarged the house in 1914, adding a wing to either side, a third level, and a stately portico to the front. The clapboard was removed and stucco was added in its place. The two fieldstone wings housed the president’s home office and the living room, which became the heart of the home. Once the expansion was complete, the home had 35 rooms, including 9 bathrooms.  

Eleanor and Franklin D. Roosevelt at Roosevelt’s presidential inauguration. | Photo from the Library of Congress

While George Washington may be known as the father of our country, FDR and Eleanor Roosevelt could be the benevolent grandparents of 20th century political history. This property, where they shared their lives and raised their children, is a Hudson Valley gem that its residents are proud to share with the world.   The FDR Home is undergoing restoration and will be closed through 2020.

Grounds are open 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. (nps.gov/hofr)  

Source: Geoffrey Ward. (April 1987). The House at Hyde Park. American Heritage, Vol. 38 (Issue 3). 

The View from the back of Springwood looking towards the Hudson River and Ulster County. | Photo by Jackie DiMarzo