Built in the early 1700’s by Dirck Dey, the Dey Mansion (pronounced Die), located in Wayne, New Jersey tends is better known by the golfers who play nearby. Situated by the Preakness Valley golf course (formerly known as Passaic County GC), the Dey Mansion played a key role in the founding of our country. Soon after the home was built, Dirck and his wife gave birth to Theunis Dey (Wayne also has a school named after him). Theunis inherited the large estate from his father and began a family with his eventual wife, Hester Schuyler, whom he married in 1749.
At the time of the revolution, the house was known as the Bloomsbury Manor. Theunis was a major political figure, representing Bergen County and went on to serve as a Colonel in the Bergen County Militia. It was during his service in the militia that he came into contact with George Washington. Theunis offered his mansion to serve as Washington’s headquarters. The Dey Mansion served as Headquarters for Washington twice, once from July 1 through July 28, 2024 and again from October 8 through November 27 1780. During his time at the mansion, Washington learned about the arrival of the French allies in July 1780. Later in the year, Washington returned to the mansion after learning that Benedict Arnold betrayed the Americans. It was said that Washington battled his own ghosts and internal battles during his stay after this devastating news.
Although its build is nothing in comparison to the huge skyscrapers we know today, it’s seen over 260 years of activity which is incredible enough on its own. Little paranormal activity has been said to occur within the walls, but there are numerous rumors of visions that appear on the road and grounds. Late at night while drivers pass the mansion, they might come across the ghostly apparition of a soldier.
The mansion which has been labeled as a historical monument will continue to share its history with those who pass it. Come take a look and maybe you will see a vision of Washington planning his next move to victory.
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Try to Scare me is NOT intended as a guide to trespassing. We present these sites, locations and stories as local unwritten history and the legends surrounding it that are told to us while traveling. Although we provide locations, and some directions, these articles are intended to be read with the knowledge that some places cannot be visited. We do not encourage trespassing onto private property and do not encourage trespassing to obtain articles, videos, pictures and other evidence to be submitted. Trespassing is illegal and those who disregard this advice will (in most cases) be arrested and charged.