By Steven Richardson
The private road leading to the D.H. Burrell Overlook Mansion in Little Falls, NY, has seen significant changes since the mansion’s construction in 1889. Originally, the mansion sat atop a steep hill accessible only by winding dirt paths that followed the terrain’s natural contours. These early roads were challenging to traverse, especially in bad weather, limiting access to the grand estate.
As automobiles became more common in the early 20th century, the owners began to improve infrastructure. The dirt roads were gradually paved in the 1920s, and more direct routes were created to accommodate increased traffic. By the mid-1900s, these roads were further expanded and maintained through private ownership. At the time, the notorious Billings family owned the mansion, and there was an agreement in place for the City of Little Falls to plow the private drive during winter months. After an incident involving damage to a rock wall, the agreement was terminated, and it fell upon the owners and the neighbors, who had a ‘Right of Way’ agreement to maintain the road ever since.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the road was modernized further, with better signage and improved safety measures such as guardrails and updated drainage systems to prevent erosion. A gate and sign at the bottom of Douglas Street marked the start of the private road leading to the Overlook. It was removed while the Property was being run as a restaurant, bed and breakfast to allow “walk-in” access. However, the road remained private and continues to be maintained by the Owners and Neighbors on the ‘Right of Way’ agreement. Today, the road leading to the mansion is once again being repaved as damage over time has made the road undrivable.
Preserving some of the scenic views that first drew David H. Burrell to build his estate on the hill, the current owner of the D.H. Burrell Overlook Mansion is committed to maintaining this property and its historical value. With the cost of materials, repaving the road is not easy and very costly in the current market. The owners and neighbors ask that the public stay off the property and drive, as expensive and necessary repairs are being made to the road and drainage system. With a fresh new road, the owners hope to attract the perfect buyer for this magnificent historic home.
54 & 55 Douglas St, Little Falls, NY 13365 | MLS #S1539072 | Zillow
Nice.
There is some misinformation and lack of historical knowledge in the article about Overlook.
Burrell and Martha Fisher
Please elaborate! I’d like to learn more about this interesting property, especially the family that was described as “notorious” without further explanation.
I remember an Easter morning worship service held by the 1st Presbyterian Church in the 1960s. A foot of snow had fallen overnight. The service was held on the porch overlooking the city with bright sunshine glistening off the snow.. It was beautiful. David G. Little
I would like to have a tour of the inside of the building but I don’t know how to find the contact information to ask if that is possible to have permission to see the inside I love history and I found this building really interesting