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The Merestead estate, located in Mount Kisco at 455 Byram Lake Rd., will maintain its standing following the lifting of longstanding restrictions announced by Westchester County Executive George Latimer on Monday, April 29.
The estate was built during the early 20th century and is the former estate of Margaret Sloane Patterson, the daughter of W. & J. Sloane President William Sloane, and her husband, prominent New York City orthopedic surgeon Robert Patterson.
The 28-room mansion features gorgeous gardens and became owned by the county upon Patterson’s death in August 2000. It is now a park with a 2.3-mile hiking trail system.
Now, the judge's decision will:
- Give the county more control over parkland;
- Release the majority of funds from trust accounts associated with Merestead for use at the estate;
- Establish a trust account for the remaining funds;
- Allow the county to draw 5 percent per year for ongoing maintenance and development projects at the estate;
- Introduce a collections management policy that will provide a structured approach to managing assets at the estate, including artwork and other items.
"This decision signifies a significant step forward in our efforts to preserve and enhance Merestead for future generations," Latimer said, adding, "We are committed to honoring Mrs. Margaret Sloane Patterson’s vision while ensuring that Merestead remains a vibrant cultural and recreational destination for the community.”
The county will now begin initiatives to enhance the estate's facilities and services to solidify its status as a "cultural and recreational hub," officials said.
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