The Armour-Stiner Octagon House is one of the most visually unique homes in the world. It is the only known fully domed octagonal residence and the only house built in the form of an ancient classical temple. The Octagon House was built in the 1860s by Paul J. Armour, a New York City financier. In this pre-Civil War period octagonal houses were a popular mode of construction following the publication of a book, The Octagon House, A Home for All, by Orson Squire Fowler, a phrenologist, sexologist and amateur architect. In 1872, the house was purchased by Joseph Stiner, a prominent New York City tea merchant. His alterations created the present unique structure. With plans to use the house as a summer retreat, Stiner added the dome and the verandah to create a classical, elaborately detailed Roman temple.

The Armour-Stiner House is a private residence. Please respect the owner’s privacy, only visit on a scheduled tour!

Location: Armour-Stiner Octagon House, 45 West Clinton Avenue, Irvington, NY 10533, 914-817-5763, https://www.armourstiner.com/.

The Classic Tour

Created as a summer retreat by tea-importer Joseph Stiner, its shape was based on the theories of Orson Squire Fowler, a phrenologist, who believed octagonal houses enclosed more space, allowed the sun in at all times, and permitted more views into the landscape. This one hour tour introduces you to the history of the house and its occupants as well as the landscape of the property.

Decorative Arts Tour

New for 2024, this tour focuses on the decorative arts of the Armour-Stiner Octagon House, including objects and histories not addressed on other tours. It is perfect for returning visitors and anyone with an eye for detail! Spurred by the Victorian sensibility that a bare room was in poor taste, The Octagon House is filled with functional objects that have been intricately decorated to impress and amuse its visitors. Don't miss this unique exploration of 19th century decorative objects – including one of the finest collections of neo-Roman decorative arts in the country – and learn what they can tell us about 1870s America. From the furniture and carpets to the lighting fixtures and silverware, visitors will see the Octagon House from a whole new perspective!

Myths and Mysteries Tour

For years, local rumors have swirled around The Octagon House, implying its connection to the spirit world. Join us as we delve into the myths and mysteries of the house—from its unique dome shape resembling an ancient Roman temple, to its octagonal floor plan rooted in 19th century Phrenology, to speculations of a resident ghost, we’ll share stories from the current owners who have described their experiences of the house as something otherworldly. Come hear tales of the unexplained and uncanny events that have occurred in this magical house while experiencing the delight of this meticulously restored architectural wonder. September and October dates.

The Lady in White-An Immersive Octagon House Ghost Story

Her ship went down in flames, but the Lady in White returned to the Octagon House and still waits for her lover to find her there.

In this immersive tour experience, a 1956 ghost story written by Carl Carmer, American author and longtime owner/resident of the Octagon House, unfolds while visitors explore the rooms of this unique home. While the guide attempts to give their tour, the Lady in White and her mother move throughout the house, evading and searching in a dramatic journey that culminates in a tragic reveal.

Victorian Christmas at the Octagon House

Celebrate the holiday season in Victorian splendor at The Octagon House. All rooms in the house will be decorated with wreaths, garlands, and the sparkle of ornaments on three grand Christmas trees. While exploring the colorful history of this one-of-a-kind home, visitors will see stunning examples of antique holiday décor and learn about the ways the decades of the late 19th century shaped our modern American holiday traditions. The experience is sure to conjure a feeling of warmth and togetherness!