Toured the house today. The price is good and the doucets are knowledgeable. The fact that the furnishings are original makes this house unique. And perhaps that uniqueness brings with it a feeling unlike that experienced at the Hempstead house (Sands Point Preserve) and many other historic homes on Long Island, the Hudson river, the Biltmore etc. The feeling I had was one of control, fear and paranoia by the doucets, that someone will do something against the rules. There are many rules but mainly not touching anything or taking photos inside the house, which is reasonable and I abided by those rules. When I pulled out my phone flashlight to examine something more closely I was chastised. They did not say we could not use flashlights. Additionally, when taking photos of the main entrance from outside, which was allowed, the doucet exclaimed that she did not want to be in the photo. I showed the other doucet that in fact she was not in any of the images. At the end of the tour I picked up a cone from the tree - a cedar of Lebanon inside the courtyard to show my friend and I was once again chastised. The doucet asked her boss who had accompanied us for the second half of the tour if it was okay and the answer was that I could not keep it. I mentioned that I was only showing my friend the unique rose shape and I was happy to throw it across the courtyard. So at this point I did mention to the group that I thought the management had gone just a bit over the top with that final request and if they were so paranoid then maybe they should not offer tours, even though Harry wanted it. I received a response of thanks for my input. Well more input here, and in a much more public forum. Perhaps placing items of great worth under lock and key and preventing people from walking into rooms with only a peak given to each room, would eliminate much of their angst and make it a less militant and more enjoyable experience for visitors. I will not...
Read moreThe Falaise Museum is a magnificent mansion located on the Sands Point Preserve, which was once the estate of both the Gould & Guggenheim Families.
In August of 2022, I brought and treated my wife and myself for an enjoyable guided tour of the Falaise Museum.
During our tour, we learned that Falaise Museum was once the summer residence of Harry Guggenheim, an American businessman, ambassador, aviator, publisher, philanthropist and prominent member of the Guggenheim Family.
Built in the 1920’s and designed by notable architect, Frederick Sterner, the house’s exterior very much resembles a 13th Century Norman manor and it’s interior evokes a medieval style atmosphere due to its immense wood beams, high archways and multiple stone fireplaces.
What my wife and I found most impressive about the Falaise were its considerable and well preserved furnishings, many of which were either Medieval or Renaissance antiques purchased by Harry and his wife Caroline.
We also admired the mansion’s position along the coast because it provided us with gorgeous views of the Long Island Sound
Our tour guide also did a great job on acknowledging the prominent historical figures that visited Falaise, most notably, aviator, Charles Lindbergh and pointed out a one page paper that was written by Lindbergh during one of his stays at the estate.
Both my wife and I would definitely love to thank the Sands Point Preserve for providing us with a chance to visit and tour the Falaise Museum.
We’d also thank our tour guide for providing us with a comprehensive overview on the Guggenheim Family, the history and distinct features of the Falaise Museum, for showcasing and explaining the house’s many rooms and furnishings and for his discussions on Harry Guggenheim and his significant contributions to aviation, publishing and art.
Both my wife and I definitely recommend for everyone to visit and explore this awe inspiring...
Read moreIt's a very old tudor style home. You can definitely smell the old. The tour guide was nice and informative. Didn't catch his name since he didn't introduce himself. The property needs better care. Basically, it's an old Summer home. Think your grandparents house with lots of old books, statues and furniture. The conservancy group should up there game. Visit the Mansions on the Hudson and embrace the story of the era of when the Guggenheim family resided. Emphasize more about Guggenheim...
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