The original Italinate villa, built in the 1850's and designed by John Warren Ritch, was remodeled and enlarged in 1888. Poughkeepsie architect Amout Cannon transformed the two story villa into an elaborate Queen Anne style country house. The home soared upward with the addition of a third floor, multi-gabled attic and a dramatic five story circular tower with a commanding view of the surrounding landscape.

During this transformation, the interiors were designed by the New York City decorator Joseph Burr Tiffany. With the ground floor rooms executed in contrasting historic revival and aesthetic movement styles, the interiors at Wilderstein offer a splendid microcosm of the decorative arts during this period of American Design.

The opulence of the residence was complimented by the Picturesque Landscape design of Calvert Vaux who laid out the grounds at Wilderstein according to the principles of the American Romantic Landscape style. The Vaux firm created an intricate network of drives, walks and trails adorned with specimen trees and ornamental shrubs. The landscape plan entailed well chosen prospect points marked by rustic gazebos and sheltered garden seats.

Now a work in progress, the restoration of Wilderstein is part of the fascination of this very special place. Held in the public trust by a private not-for-profit organization, the recovery and restoration of Wilderstein and its contents is a fascinating exercise in frustration and success, all on display as part of the experience. Tattered silk wall hangings and restored pressed leather coverings are part of the experience of a visit to Wilderstein. The care and dedication of those working on Wilderstein is evident.

Guided tours of Wilderstein are available May through October on Thursdays to Sundays from Noon to 4pm, small fee is charged. Access to the grounds and trails is free.