Located in Hyde Park, New York this Springwood estate was the birthplace and home of our 32nd president, Franklin D. Roosevelt. The Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt in the Hudson Valley allows visitors to explore the life and legacy of Franklin D. Roosevelt.

  • What is the history of Springwood?
    • The history of Springwood dates back to 1697 when the English Crown granted 220 square miles of land to nine New York businessmen.
    • The land was divided into nine lots, one of which was Springwood, given to William Creed.
    • There is little information about what was initially built on the lot.
  • When was the estate remodeled?
    • In 1845, Josiah Wheeler purchased the estate and remodeled it into an Italian-styled tower.
    • By the time James Roosevelt purchased the estate, it had been reduced to one square mile.
    • James made many renovations to the home from 1866 to 1900, many of which still stand today.
  • What connection does Franklin D. Roosevelt have to Springwood?
    • Franklin D. Roosevelt was born in the master bedroom of Springwood in 1882.
    • He returned to the estate many times throughout his life.
    • In 1905, Franklin and his wife Eleanor moved back to Springwood to accompany his mother Sara.
  • When was the last major renovation of Springwood?
    • In 1915, Franklin and Sara designed home additions to accommodate Franklin’s growing family and for entertaining political acquaintances.
  • When did Franklin D. Roosevelt visit Springwood for the last time?
    • Franklin returned to Springwood for the last time in March 1945.
    • Two weeks later, he passed away and was buried in the Rose Garden.
    • His wife Eleanor was buried there in 1962, along with their two dogs.
  • Who owns Springwood today?
    • Before his death, Franklin donated Springwood to the public under the condition that his family could still use the property.
    • On November 21, 1945, Franklin’s family relinquished their rights to the estate.
    • Springwood is now controlled by the National Park Service and is open to the public.
  • What can visitors explore at Springwood?
    • Springwood retains much of its historical charm, and the estate offers several rooms of interest:
      • Entrance Hall – Showcases artwork collected by Franklin throughout his lifetime, along with artifacts from his early life and a trunk elevator.
      • Living Room and Library – Features over 10,000 volumes, thousands of art pieces, millions of stamps, and various campaign memorabilia.
      • Music Room (Dresden Room) – Displays Chinese porcelain and lacquerware collected by Franklin’s mother, along with a piano and celebrity autographed photographs.
      • Bedrooms – Includes the rooms used by Franklin, Eleanor, and his mother Sara.
      • The Snuggery – A room added in 1915, dedicated to Sara, where she spent her mornings.
  • What educational opportunities are available at the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt?
    • Visitors can learn more about Springwood at the Henry A. Wallace Visitor and Education Center.
    • There, they can watch an introduction video titled A Rendezvous with History.
    • Guided tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at Springwood and an in-depth lesson about Franklin’s life.
  • Where is Springwood located?

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