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The expanse of land on which the farm sits, known as “Commanding Heights,” on Guard Hill Road has not been developed in more than 300 years. Mary Ann Hawley, who lives there, will invite visitors into her home on Friday to benefit the Bedford Historical Society.
Tickets cost $200 each and all the proceeds will go to the Society’s Preservation Fund.
The farm is newly built in the New England style and rests on 67 acres of land. It contains horse pastures, stables and a nearby country store. The home also sits below a historic landmark known as Guard Hill, where a lookout fired three shots from his pistol to warn of an approaching enemy in the summer of 1779.
“Rochambeau Farm was shaped by history,” Hawley said. “My goal was to create a gathering place that I could share with others. This is the highest point in Westchester County and the views are beyond breathtaking. It just wouldn’t be right to keep them to myself.”
Hawley and her friend, Alex Hamer, are both involved with the Bedford Historical Society and decided to act to help.
“I got to know everyone at the Society while planning the house,” Hawley said. “They had an easement on the land and among the many restrictions were ‘no shiny metals, no reflective windows and the house had to be in an architectural style in keeping with Bedford,’”
Hamer, a professional equestrian, recently earned a spot on the society’s Board of Directors and wanted to hold “a memorable event.” “Mary Ann has hosted numerous fundraisers to support other organizations,” Hamer said. “And since we both love the charm of Bedford, it made sense to honor the group responsible for preserving the historic character of the Village…We’re having all sorts of wonderful appetizers, summer cocktails and a dance floor so our guests can dance under the stars and enjoy the vistas.”
Sidney Frank Importers and Vine and Co. are sponsoring the event.
Tickets and more information are available online or at 914-234-9751.
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