Although tradition says that when Van Cortlandt purchase^ from Governor Thomas Dongan, in 1683-4, the domain of Kitchawan, the latter had already begun improvements, intending to complete a fortified country seat for the convenience of fishing, hawking and hunting in the neighboring waters, low lands and forests. Tradition also adds, that Dongan planted apple-trees not far from the site of the Manor house. A variety of the fruit known as the " Dongan apple," is yet grown on the estate. Quaint and picturesque in form, the old house harmonizes well with its natural surroundings. It stands near the foot of an abrupt slope of a high wooded hill, that shelters it from the keen northern blasts of winter. Before it, is a fine lawn, gently sloping to the water's edge, and shaded by magnificent trees.

The manor house was built for the two-fold purpose of a country residence and a fort. Its solid walls of gray stone, three feet in thickness, were pierced on every side with loop-holes for musketry. Some of these may yet be seen in the rear walls, and one in particular that has been recently opened on the front or south side of the dinning-room which presents the form of the Egyptian T. H. T. One of the principal objects the builder (whether Governor Dongan or Johannes Van Cortlandt) had in view was security against the Indians, who at one time were very numerous in this neighborhood.4 In fact its noble owners never knew when they were secure from the inroads of the savages, but in proportion to the strength and security of their habitation. The principal sachem of Kitchtawan, when Stephanus Van Cortlandt made the purchase, was Sackima Wicker, a son probably of the illustrious Indian warrior Croton or Noten, who had for a long period lived and exercised his authority at the mouth of the river still bearing his name.