The best way to learn about historic houses is to look at them closely, and the most fun way to look at them closely is to do a puzzle showing a wonderful historic house! So, we made a unique and interesting collection of Historic House Puzzles for you to enjoy!
Among the many exceptional houses in the Hudson River valley is the remarkable eclectic Armour-Stiner octagon house in Irvington, New York. It was built as a two-story octagon house in 1859-60 as a summer home for Paul J. Armour, a New York City financier. The design was likely inspired by “Squire” Orson S. Fowler’s 1848 book, “The Octagon Mode,” which promoted the building of octagonal houses.
In 1872, the house was purchased by Joseph Stiner, a tea importer from New York City. Stiner added a two-story domed roof and expanded the wraparound porch. The result was one of America’s most unique houses, comparable to Philadelphia architect Samuel Sloan’s Longwood in Natchez, Mississippi.
Fortunately, several historic outbuildings survive along with the house, including this greenhouse. Technological advances after the civil war reduced the cost of cast iron and plate glass – leading to the construction of many greenhouses and conservatories in the late 19th century.
Owner and preservationist architect Joseph Pell Lombardi has spent decades restoring the house, grounds and outbuildings. The house is open to the public for tours, which must be booked in advance at armourstiner.com. It is well worth a visit!
Restoration methods and materials used by museum experts are included among the approaches presented in “Restoring Your Historic House, The Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners.”
Signed and personalized copies of the award-winning and bestselling 720-page hardcover book are available directly from the author in our online shop at YourHistoricHouse.com/shop/.
© Scott T. Hanson 2025.
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Click on the dashed box at the top-right in the puzzle box below to open the puzzle to full screen. In the top left, you can change the number of pieces (100 pieces is the default), toggle piece rotation, and change the background color. Then hit “OK” and have fun!