Val-Kill: A Home and Retreat

Nestled beyond vast lawns on top of the knoll, sits the home of Eleanor Roosevelt, affectionately known as Val-Kill.  Often admired by Eleanor as her tranquil retreat, Val-Kill was a quiet, unassuming social center for dignitaries, world leaders, chance acquaintances and the Roosevelt family.

Here, Eleanor could focus on her activism and bring together some of the greatest minds – world leaders, royalty, heads of state, and other people of notable significance; or no visible significance – except to Eleanor Roosevelt.  At Val-Kill, everyone was equal – from the politicians coming to seek her advice and support, to the young troubled city boys of the Wiltwyck School.  She created an environment where people could connect, learn and play.

In 1976, a key family member worked with the National Park Service, prominent members of the national stage, community leaders and members of Congress to save her home. From that beginning, a not-for-profit group, the Eleanor Roosevelt Center, was created to honor the legacy of Eleanor Roosevelt through programs that focus on her concern for social justice and human rights. Through the years, our emphasis has changed to engage the next generation of civic-minded youth.

Our partnership with the National Park Service and their stewardship of this National Historic Site promotes the Eleanor Roosevelt Center’s vision as we direct our actions to match the vision of the First Lady of the World. The Park Service’s interpretation of Eleanor’s life, and life at Val-Kill, brings awareness of her enormous contributions to the betterment of our country and the world. This special place of reflection challenges us to take action through participation in one of the Eleanor Roosevelt Center’s programs.

Please note that the Eleanor Roosevelt Center does not schedule tours or have the most up-to-date opening/closing information.​ For tour information, please visit the National Park Service’s website at nps.gov/elro/ or call 845-229-9422.