Glen Manor House | Portsmouth RI

Glen Manor House is a historic estate located in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, USA.

This Georgian Revival mansion overlooks the Sakonnet River.

Visual Characteristics

The house is constructed primarily of granite blocks with a slate roof. It features a symmetrical facade with a central portico supported by four Doric columns. The exterior is painted a light cream color. The structure has three stories above a raised basement, with a total height of approximately 50 feet. Architectural elements include multi-paned sash windows and decorative cornices.

Location & Access Logistics

Glen Manor House is situated at 350 Cory's Lane, Portsmouth, RI 02871. It is approximately 15 miles east of Providence, Rhode Island's capital city. Access is via Cory's Lane, which is off RI-138 East. Parking is available on-site in a designated gravel lot. Public transportation options are limited; the nearest bus stop is several miles away, requiring a taxi or ride-share service for final access.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The house was designed by architect John Russell Pope and constructed between 1917 and 1921 for industrialist Henry A. Du Pont. Its original purpose was as a private residence. The estate encompasses approximately 50 acres of landscaped grounds and waterfront property along the Sakonnet River.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk the grounds and gardens. Photography of the exterior architecture is permitted. Access to the interior is generally restricted to pre-booked event rentals or specific public tours, which are not regularly scheduled.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the main house, typically accessible during scheduled events or tours. Shade is provided by mature trees on the grounds. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable in the area. There are no on-site food vendors; dining options are located in nearby Portsmouth or Middletown.

Best Time to Visit

For exterior photography, early morning or late afternoon light offers optimal illumination of the facade. The months of May through October provide the most pleasant weather for outdoor exploration of the grounds. There are no tidal considerations for accessing the property.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is that the estate was once owned by the family of U.S. Senator and former Governor of Delaware, Henry A. Du Pont. The property's extensive gardens were designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr.

Nearby Landmarks

• Norman Bird Sanctuary (1.2km Southwest)
• Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge (3.5km West)
• Easton's Beach (4.0km West)
• The Breakers (Newport Mansions) (4.8km Southwest)