Come visit! Treasure of Morris County: Florham Mansion in Madison

Madison, NJ – Few people know of one of Madison’s most beautiful places to visit, and even fewer have actually visited. It was created more than 115 years ago, and it is just as enchanting as when it was first erected. I’m talking about the Florham mansion, which was built in 1897 by Florence Vanderbilt. Madison was chosen as the location for her family’s summer home for many of the same reasons that families choose to live in Madison today: the picturesque landscape, ample and lush space, and a burgeoning community.

Although Florham is currently used by Fairleigh Dickinson University, anyone can visit Florham to take a self-guided tour – and summer is the perfect time! FDU’s students have retreated from the campus, and everything about this historic treasure is brighter and more brilliant in the summer. It’s the perfect place for a family picnic or even a romantic stroll.

There are scores of breathtaking features to be explored at Florham. Just a few of these features include the Italian gardens, the Orangerie (where the Vanderbilt family grew their own oranges!), the Clowney gardens, and of course – the mansion itself.

If you’re wondering how Florham is preserved, you may be surprised to learn that there is a non-profit philanthropy composed of numerous FDU alumni and friends of the campus who volunteer to tend to the maintenance and restoration of this grand historic site. This group is called the Friends of Florham, and it holds cultural events and gatherings throughout the year. I have served as a public relations volunteer for over two years, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to be part of a group with such a wonderful cause, and which is dedicated to sharing all of Florham’s beauty with those who appreciate it. The Friends’ events have included a gilded-age tea, a lecture on the landscape architecture of the estate, an American Girl luncheon, a day trip to a sister Vanderbilt mansion in Hyde Park, NY, and most recently A Kentucky Derby party.

Anyone who is interested in history, architecture, or simply enjoying a sunny summer day is welcome to visit the Florham mansion at 285 Madison Avenue in Madison, NJ. You can expect breathtaking scenery, transportive architecture, and an all-around lovely visit.

Inquiries of any kind may be sent to friendsofflorham@gmail.com. I wish you a wonderful visit, and hope that you have an experience that leads you to cherish this estate the way I do!