Written
by Peter Bush
"Harmony Hall", original home of
Jacob Sloat, built 1848. A considerable example of late Greek Revival style.
Typified by raised center section and flanking symmetrical wings, with
verandah carried by squared piers or classical antae. Built on a knoll in
the town center of Sloatsburg, NY, the grounds included a long entrance
drive with fountain and garden ornaments in the manner of design suggested
by
the influence of
horticulturist, Andrew Jackson Downing.
Jacob was a mechanical genius and held the third
patent granted by the U.S.A. in 1813. In addition, Jacob was the owner and
operator of a mill for the manufacture of cotton cloth and later twine in
connection with stocks and dies, in which latter articles Jacob Sloat was
soon to lead the New York market.
The mill provided an economic
anchor for the village of Sloatsburg,
providing jobs and
resulting in a vital commercial main street that included
sundry shops,
eating establishments and three houses of worship.
In the
20th Century "Harmony Hall" became an elegant restaurant and
later a rest home for women.
Harmony Hall has recently been purchased by the Town of
Ramapo
under their open space program. A committee has been established to
preserve, restore and oversee the operation of Harmony Hall. The
Chairperson of this Committee is Mr. Harrison O. Bush.
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