Inclenberg Plaque

Deep in the heart of bustling Manhattan, a silent sentinel whispers tales of a bygone era. The Inclenberg Plaque, nestled on Park Avenue and 35th Street, marks the center of what was once a sprawling 29-acre estate. Inclenberg, also known as Belmont, was a world away from the city’s hustle and bustle in the 1750s. Imagine a hilltop haven, approached by an avenue lined with magnolias, elms, spruce, and Lombardy poplars. The Inclenberg Plaque commemorates not just a geographical center, but the heart of a vibrant social scene. This was the home of Robert and Mary Lindley Murray, a power couple who hosted New York’s elite, including George Washington himself. The mansion boasted a broad veranda offering stunning views of Kip’s Bay and the East River. But Inclenberg’s story goes beyond elegant soirées. During the tumultuous days of 1776, Mary Lindley Murray, a staunch Patriot, played a pivotal role in the Revolutionary War. While her husband secretly sympathized with the Loyalists, Mary bravely used her wit and charm to aid the American cause. Legend has it that she detained British General William Howe and his officers with tea and captivating conversation, allowing George Washington and his troops precious time to escape. This act of defiance, often romanticized as the “tea party that saved America,” cemented Mary Lindley Murray’s place in history. The Murray family’s legacy lived on, even as the tides of time washed over Inclenberg. Their mansion tragically burned down in 1835, and the once-prominent hill was leveled. Today, only the Inclenberg Plaque remains, a poignant reminder of a vanished world. It serves as a testament to the Murrays’ influence, Mary’s courage, and the rich tapestry of history woven into the very fabric of New York City.