Please pardon our appearance! John Jay Homestead is partially closed for much needed historic preservation and restoration work on Bedford House, John Jay’s historic home. Visitors may enjoy passive recreation on the grounds (walking, hiking, etc.) daily from sunrise until sunset and restrooms remain open until active construction begins, anticipated in early 2026. All buildings will be closed except the public restrooms.
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) has initiated a significant restoration project for John Jay Homestead State Historic Site, the largest capital investment at any New York Historic Site to date. Friends of John Jay Homestead is supporting this project through contributions to design and curatorial work in addition to philanthropic support.
OPRHP held a public information meeting regarding this project on June 9, 2025 that can be viewed here.
Project Objectives
- Reopening Bedford House after 5+ years
- Ensuring Bedford House is weather tight
- Preserving historic fabric
- Increasing accessibility in and around Bedford House
- Enriching visitor experience through enhanced interpretation
- Improved visitor Orientation
Projected Timeline
- June 2025 – Public outreach
- Summer 2025 – Finalize project bid documents
- Fall 2025 – Project advertisement and bid (Quiet Period)
- Early 2026 – Mobilization and start of construction
- Fall 2027 – Construction completion
While the site is closed, our community has graciously stepped up to ensure that John Jay Homestead remains a mainstay. From our Speakers Series hosted at Bedford Playhouse to our seasonal weekly Farm Market moving to Katonah Village, we are honored to have such strong partnerships with our wonderful community to continue to bring you a robust calendar of events and programming. As we move into the commemorative period of the 250th anniversary of our country’s founding (2026) and the 200th anniversary of the end of slavery in New York state (2027), we look forward to bringing new and engaging programming to our audience. Be sure to keep an eye on our calendar and sign up for our e-newsletter to stay updated on construction and events on the horizon.
During this important time, your support means more now than ever. Consider becoming a member of Friends of John Jay Homestead or donating today.