I have been disgustingly obsessed with this place for a good 20 years. When I used to live in the area, I'd drive on lake road just to get a few glimpses - or sneak up on the Matheny side to get a good look.
When I saw that Blairsden was being served as the Mansions In May this year, I nearly died. The finest example of Beaux Arts architecture in the US ( built by Carr'ere and Hastings - who also built the New York Public Library & the Frick)
So when tickets went up for $50 a piece - I quickly snapped a few up and alerted my wonderful BF (who has no interest in this) of what we were to do on Mother's Day.
Turnout was expected to be tremendous, so 25 shuttles were offered to and from the mansion from the Fowler rd parking area.
We got there at 12:00 and waited just a few minutes to board. By the time our shuttle was full, there was a good 20 people waiting for the next bus.
We entered from the main gates on peapack rd and zipped up to the top of the hill.
There were about 100 people waiting to enter the home in front of us - well worth the wait.
Each room has been redesigned by interior decorators from around the US. Most of the rooms had tidbits of history here and there. Original sinks, faucets, lighting, fire hose, elevator, etc etc as well as molding, fireplaces, windows, flooring.
This house was a masterpiece! I only wish they had spent more on the grounds as you were unable to see the ravine built for the home.
Again - this is just for the month of May and all the proceeds to toward a good cause (Morristown Medical Center)
GO GO GO!! read more