Adapted from original research by Colleen Kane, founder of Catskills Paper Trail.
Nestled in the rolling hills of Glen Spey, New York, stands a testament to America’s Gilded Age—the magnificent Burn Brae Mansion. But what makes this historic estate truly captivating isn’t just its architectural grandeur; it’s the mysterious stories that surround it. Click here to learn more about staying at Burn Brae Mansion!
A Scottish Legacy in Sullivan County
According to historical accounts, in 1880, George Ross MacKenzie, president of the Singer Sewing Machine Company, found himself drawn to a landscape that reminded him of his native Scotland. This connection led him to rename the hamlet of South Lebanon to Glen Spey, beginning a fascinating chapter in Sullivan County’s history.
Architectural Heritage
The mansion is believed to have been designed by Henry J. Hardenbergh, the architect known for the Waldorf Astoria, the Plaza Hotel, and the Dakota, though like many historical properties, some architectural details have been passed down through oral history. One particularly noteworthy feature is the mansion’s Tiffany windows—which, according to current owners Pat and Mike Fraysse, were reportedly worth more than the entire property’s purchase price in the early 1990s.
Hidden Treasures: MacKenzie’s Lake
Perhaps one of the most intriguing features of the MacKenzie estate’s legacy can be found at the Glen Spey crossroads—a small lake that was most likely MacKenzie’s Lake. Two remarkable structures from the family’s era still grace this picturesque spot: a charming island structure and a historic boathouse, now nearly consumed by nature’s embrace. Early 1900s postcards reveal that these structures were once connected by a bridge to the mainland, painting a picture of the elegant lifestyle enjoyed by the MacKenzie family. The stone entryway still visible from the roadside may have once led to either Bel Air mansion or possibly George Ross MacKenzie’s own residence, serving as a silent sentinel to the area’s grand past.
A Family Estate
Historical records indicate that MacKenzie and his seven children each constructed their own summer mansions in Glen Spey. Burn Brae, built for his daughter Margaret Ross MacKenzie Elkin, is one of just three that remain standing today. The property reportedly included an enclosed area for deer and elk, as documented in the Waterbury Evening Democrat in 1898.
Reported Paranormal Activity
Over the years, various visitors and staff have reported unusual experiences at Burn Brae. While these accounts cannot be independently verified, reported phenomena include:
- Sightings of what appears to be a woman in white
- Reports of a figure in period attire
- Stories of a man in overalls
- Unexplained sounds including organ music and children’s voices
- Doors reportedly opening and closing on their own
- Mysterious bouncing balls
Modern Days at Burn Brae
Today, Burn Brae operates as a bed and breakfast and motel, embracing both its historical significance and its reputation for supernatural activity. The property hosts murder mysteries and paranormal investigations, and its Dark Forest Fright Trail has become a local Halloween tradition, celebrating 30 years of operation.
A Living Legacy
Whether or not one believes in the supernatural, Burn Brae Mansion stands as an important piece of Sullivan County history. As one of the few remaining MacKenzie family mansions in Glen Spey, it provides a unique window into the Gilded Age and the stories of those who called this remarkable place home.
This article was adapted from research and documentation by Colleen Kane of Catskills Paper Trail.
Click here to learn more about staying at Burn Brae Mansion!
