The Forgotten Mansion on Staten Island (Bay Villa)

Discover a mansion so lavish, it rivaled New York's finest! Join Ken as he retraces the steps of Anson Phelps Stokes, unveiling a story of grandeur and societal change!

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Location: New York City

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Public Domain Photos from: Library of Congress,
Assets from: Envato Elements
Music from Epidemic Sound

[darcyedmonds]

What a beautiful golden moment in time, a dream of a childhood. There must be a way to have such goodness for us all. ❤

[jeffpeelman]

If only we could go back and experience these beautiful homes at their best.

[robasiansensation]

Since I was a little one, I would dream of living in a multiple storied old home with winding hallways, hidden rooms, filled with wood and beautiful old things. It started watching old vincent price movies. I thought the home on mockingbird lane- the home of the munsters, wasn't scary but very inviting. I wanted to see grandpa's laboratory in the basement, and see what is under the stairs where Spot lived. I love the thick draperies and chandeliers. I never have had the chance to live in a home I could roam in like that, but have been had friends that had such homes. I'm 56 now and more fascinated by these old mansions than ever. I'm so grateful for this channel that gives me a little look inside.

[dlcalbaugh]

This is one of my favorite channels on YouTube. Thank you for all of your hard work in making these videos.

[SMtWalkerS]

The house looks beautiful and also the gardens. Staten Island must have been lovely at one time. Long ago.

[scottnyc]

As someone who’s been born and raised on Staten Island I’ve seen firsthand how much has been destroyed.Most of where those massive mansions once stood are now occupied with low income city projects where you take your life in your hands if on foot.After the depression much was sold off and divided into lots and turned into urban ghettos.

[g.v.hedgpeth]

I liked how you integrated some of the other " 5 senses " (smell of soap, sound of laughter) while giving the tour.

[StamperWendy]

So much furniture, artwork and knick knacks!

[mitchellbarnow]

Ken I love how you set the scene and then you take us inside to tour the mansion, but we have access into the most intimate family spaces. This goes for every video, I love it so much and I feel that I was there even though it was torn down maybe a hundred years ago.

[jennymauger]

Of everything I your description, ty & yr partner for the care & consideration putting this together 🙏🏼🩵🪽

[paco]

Impeccable as usual. Tea never tastes as good as when I'm watching an episode of yours. It's so amazing watching a person who has found their calling. Keep dreaming and we will keep watching. You have earned a spot in all of our hearts.

[randomviking]

A giant gem, both inside and out...and that view! 👍

[SpanishEclectic]

Those old libraries are hard to beat when it comes to fantastic wood, and, of course, books! Fireplace and spiral stairs! I like how you created a visit for us with this one. My grandmother lived in the Bronx from birth through her early 20s (1901-1924) and would talk about the Staten Island ferry. She must have seen this house, which indeed dominated the neighborhood. The view there is beautiful. It think I'll refrain from looking up the current visuals, and retain the picture you have painted for us. P.S. I'm now imagining you in your studio lair, with a cat on your lap, lol. :)

[philpots]

I had to go out to Staten Island for a client, the company was being dissolved, and moved their office into the owners' mansion. It had a wonderful view of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. I did not know the area, but I did notice that all the first floor windows had steel roll up shades. It was a fortress.

[garygloska]

Love this artistic composition of roof lines

[teresaschlomer]

Hello Ken, An amazing story as usual. You never disappoint me Dear, I must say that the library and the master suite are my favorites. Its always so hard to pick just one.
Thank you for sharing and I hope you have a great day

[williamtyre]

Great selection of photos at the beginning showing the approach to the house from the front gate. I'm a sucker for a great library and the two-story library in this house was really something! Thanks for this glimpse of Staten Island in its prime.

[butterfly]

Love the grounds ! Where in Staten Island did this exist ? Yes, lots of wealth there at one time....before the Verrazano Bridge built..

[hiridavidfeign]

Fascinating. I love the outside, but the inside feels really claustrophobic. Very well-written episode. Thanks.

[jones]

Hey I just want to say I really like your sense of theater. That is what animated these houses in their own day.