Heathcote Manor
504 Cortlandt Ave, Mamaroneck
Brief History
Caleb Heathcote, a Loyalist from England, held several positions appointed by the Royal government, including as a member of His Majesty’s Council. Heathcote moved from England to the United States to pursue a political career, eventually becoming the Mayor of New York City.
Caleb's home on Heathcote Hill - a Mamaroneck landmark - was destroyed before the Revolutionary War. Some theorize that Patriots burned it down, though this is not confirmed. It housed Caleb, his wife Martha, and their six children, providing a quiet refuge from his work in New York City. Though the house is gone, a historical plaque marks its original foundation site. The Women's Club now stands in its place.
Land History
Caleb Heathcote was known for his acquisition of the Eastern Neck of Mamaroneck from Ann Richbell in 1697 - three years after the death of her husband John Richbell.
Heathcote’s purchase included Orienta (excluding James Mott’s property), the Richbell lot on Heathcote Hill, Scarsdale, and White Plains.
Relation to Slavery
Heathcote played a role in the British response to the 1712 Slave Rebellion, during which an enslaver’s bakery was burned down. As a Quarter Session Judge, Heathcote was involved in the trials following the rebellion, which led to the execution of twenty-four people of color, including Indigenous and African-American individuals.
Records show that he was reimbursed by the state for the firewood he provided for the executions.