SHARE

Landmarks Abound In Westchester, Adding To County's Character

WESTCHESTER COUNTY, N.Y. -- Some of the area's landmarks are conspicuous while others are hiding in plain slight. Each of them carries that history that helps to give the Hudson Valley to its character.

The statue by an Elmsford gas station, which several have named after Paul Bunyan.

The statue by an Elmsford gas station, which several have named after Paul Bunyan.

Photo Credit: Tom Auchterlonie
As Lewisboro has a newly renovated library, its predecessor structure was mentioned at a ceremony, a place that is used today as an antique shop.

As Lewisboro has a newly renovated library, its predecessor structure was mentioned at a ceremony, a place that is used today as an antique shop.

Photo Credit: Tom Auchterlonie

Take the large statue by a BP gas station in Elmsford as an example. The figure, located by Route 9A, is of a large man and has been described by several publications as resembling Paul Bunyan. This version, however, has green eyes and a green cap. He is also missing his arms.

Another quirky landmark is the "Skinny House." As Daily Voice reported earlier this month, the Mamaroneck structure is just 10 feet wide and is on a parcel of land that is 12 and a half feet wide. 

One Northern Westchester landmark is not only a piece of history but it is actively used today. The Elephant Hotel, which is visible at the intersection of Routes 100 and 202 in downtown Somers, was built by Hachaliah Bailey and become associated with the development of the American circus, the town notes on its website. Today, it is the seat of the town's government, where local boards hold their meetings.

Some landmarks are not simply a structure or a statue but a whole neighborhood. Earlier this month, it was announced that a large portion of the hamlet of Waccabuc, which is located in the town of Lewisboro, has been named a state landmark, with more than 500 acres included.

"Notwithstanding the changes that the architecture and the landscape within the district has undergone, Waccabuc retains a high level of historic integrity," the announcement states about Waccabuc. "The district includes the Mead Cemetery, Mead Memorial Chapel, the Post Office building and the Waccabuc Country Club (formerly the Hoe Estate)."

Waccabuc has also been unanimously recommended to be added to the National Register of Historic Places and a decision by the National Park Service is expected in a couple of months, the announcement adds.

Some landmarks have important histories but presently have low profiles. For example, when the Lewisboro Library was reopened on Saturday following a massive renovation, it was noted that a previous location for the library, which is in South Salem, is now used for an antiques shop.

to follow Daily Voice Yonkers and receive free news updates.

SCROLL TO NEXT ARTICLE