Bannerman Castle located on Pollepel Island; Newburgh was built in the 1900s by Francis Banner as a warehouse for his business supplies. Designed by the owner himself the construction of Bannerman Castle began in 1901. Today, Bannerman Castle is left to deteriorate at Pollepel Island.

History of Bannerman Castle.

Francis Bannerman immigrated to the U.S.A with his parents at the age of 3. A few years later in their new country, his father started a business selling military equipment. The business did so well that by his early twenties Bannerman took over the family business from his father. Francis Bannerman lifted the business to greater heights by dealing with the government especially during the Spanish and World War I. His business grew over time and he, therefore, required a bigger and safer warehouse to store his supplies. Pollepel Island looked like the best location for it was just a few miles from New York City and at the same time, it was not habited. He bought the land, designed his castle and initiated the construction. He also built a house that he used as his summer home on the Island. However, the construction stopped after his death in 1918. The island changed hands afterward and is currently owned by the state of New York. Castle on fire In 1920, a section of the building was severely destroyed when shells blew up in one of the storage facilities within the Castle. As if that is not enough, a fire outbreak mangled the building further destroying the roof and floor at an unrepairable rate. The collapse of the roof exposed the interior to more damages by rainwater leaving a ruined building with just the walls left standing.

Hazards found at the castle

During the explosion and fire outbreak, pieces fell off the building splashing in the surrounding water, and this poses a threat to navigation of the waters. Having been exposed to sunlight, rain, explosion, and fire over all these years the building, though still standing, is weak and can collapse anytime.

The future of Bannerman Castle?

Bannerman still stands but is in a deteriorating state. Those on board the train past Pollepel Island can see the remains of the building. An organization by the name Bannerman Castle Trust manages the Castle. They are working with the state department of interior to restore Bannerman Castle into a historic park and museum where people can go and learn about their history.

Can I visit Bannerman Castle?

Yes, people are allowed to visit, albeit the current management is trying to avoid visits to the island until they stabilize the Castle, one can book a guided walking tour to the Island through The Bannerman Castle Trust. Trespassing is not allowed for it is not safe to walk through the island without an experienced tour guide.