⚓ Anchored At the Crossroad of OLD and NEW

🏠 A Country Home in the Big City, Queens, NYC

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Pssst!
Check out one of
N.Y.C.'s Best Kept Secrets!
A Hidden Relic from the past
with reNEWed passion & purpose

At the pulse of one of New York City's oldest towns and the

Home of the Hollis Preservation Association
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A Country Oasis in the city within
minutes of all that NYC has to offer!
A Must See Unique
Historical Treasure!

Jason Antos, President, Queens Historical Society

"It's something that has been somewhat overlooked by time and is a survivor and it's still here with us today."

Judy, Visitor - New York City (Oct. 2016)

" I pulled into the driveway and was like, 'Oh my goodness!' It just looked as if someone had picked up a piece of land from the countryside and dropped it right smack in the middle of the city. Wow! "

The AIA Guide to New York City

This large, freestanding, elaborately ornamented Italianate house is a remarkable throwback to the area's 19th century roots. Good console brackets.

Brian Morrison, Producer - Hollywood, California (Oct. 2016)

" If this house was in California, I would film here all the time! I think this is an amazing house, a great place to film. "

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It's A Special Home at a Major Crossroad...

In its almost 200 years, the stand-out Hollis Ketcham House, has seen many changes.
Photographed in 1922 by famed
photographer & NYC historian
Eugene L. Armbruster

"The Ketcham House"

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It's A Special Home at a Major Crossroad...

The Ketchams Move In.

In its almost 200 years, the stand-out Ketcham House, has seen many changes.
1849
1931 - 1953

The Amazing

History

of the Ketcham House

Explore the History of the Ketcham House

A Millionaire Takes Over

Fashion Icon & Moving Pictures Star

The Foundation of a New Community

1885 - 1890's
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This beloved home rooted at the intersection of the PAST and the PRESENT is awe-inspiring!
This treasured home has found renewed purpose: LODGING FOR GUESTS; ENGLISH LANGUAGE HOMESTAY for foreign students; and FILM-MAKING!

2013

2014
2010
B&B and Vacation Rental
English language Home Tuition & Sightseeing
Location for Film Shoots
LODGING FOR GUESTS
ENGLISH LANGUAGE HOMESTAY
FILM-MAKING
Loads of space to relax and enjoy!
Live, Learn & Explore with an experienced language specialist.
Nice selection of rooms and diverse landscaping.
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Jos Ashley single-handedly takes on the restoration of this historic home.

It's A Special Home at a Major Crossroad...

This Old House has stood the test of time and almost 200 years on, it continues to flaunt its beauty.
2015

1 Summer

An Amazing feat of Strength,
     Diligence & Compassion

+ 1 Man

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Stop a while. EXPLORE!

and welcome... !

You've found that hidden historical treasure!

The Ketcham House

Welcome to...

Speaking Out for Preservation of the Ketcham House

Queens County Farm MuseumPresident & Founder,
Queens County Farm Museum
The Ketcham Farmhouse and its land is truly miraculous in its architectural and site integrity, allowing the public to easily interpret what Hollis was like prior to its suburbanization during the early part of the 20th century. The Ketcham —or Ketchum—family were known farmers who also took a leading role in the governance of Queens County, and this house stands as a rare example of their work and the history of the area.
Historic Districts CouncilHistoric Preservationist, Past Exec. Director,
Historic Districts Council (21 years)
The Ketcham House is a rare survivor from the mid‑19th century in its surrounding area, perhaps the only building of its age in the neighbourhood and its surrounding communities. Its demolition would be an irreplaceable loss to the people of the city and should be prevented. The house provides an essential example of architectural and agricultural history that cannot be recreated.
Paul GrazianoUrban Planner,
Historic Preservation Expert,
Community Activist
In any locale that I have worked in over the past three decades, this historic resource would be considered eligible for designation as an individual landmark due to its architectural and landscape integrity, and its association with important historical and cultural events and trends at multiple levels. The Ketcham House deserves this recognition as a historically and culturally significant property that illustrates the evolution of the community and the continuity of its heritage.
King Manor MuseumExecutive Director,
King Manor Museum
I believe the Ketcham House should be preserved and deserves to be considered a historical landmark. It provides Hollis with a sense of place and helps bring everyone together. Tearing it down would leave a void in the community, and its continued existence offers a tangible connection to the history of local farming families and the development of Queens.
Bayside Historical SocietyVP, Buildings, Bayside Historical Society
Chair, Queens Community Board 11
Bayside Historical Society resides inside the landmarked Officers Club at Fort Totten. With our unique experience in mind, it is clear that saving the Ketcham Farmhouse poses a rare and significant opportunity to educate present and future generations about the past. Protecting this structure ensures that the local community maintains a connection to the historical context of Queens and its agricultural heritage.
Newtown Historical SocietyPresident, Newtown Historical Society
It is our honor to support the landmarking of the Ketcham House, which has ties to one of the earliest settler families in what was formerly Newtown Township. Queens lost so much of its agrarian history as it was developed, and this is a rare opportunity to save something that will educate present and future generations about its past, preserving a crucial part of the community’s cultural and architectural history.
CB12 Logo
“We urge the Landmarks Preservation Commission to act right now to protect our heritage before it falls to the wrecking ball.”
Rev. Carlene O. Thorbs

COMMUNITY BOARD 12, which represents Jamaica, South Jamaica, South Ozone Park, Hollis, St. Albans, Springfield Gardens and Rochdale Village, absolutely supports the immediate designation of the Ketcham Farmhouse AKA 190-21 Hollis Avenue...

For too long, the neighborhoods of Southeast Queens have been ignored by the Landmarks Preservation Commission. In its 60-year history, we have exactly 18 individual landmarks and one historic district — Addisleigh Park — and except for Addisleigh Park and William Wordsworth Elementary School (P.S. 48), not a single building is landmarked outside downtown Jamaica.”

The Ketcham Farmhouse should be no exception. Architecturally, it is stunning. For anyone walking or driving on Hollis Avenue, it is already an immediate landmark. The building’s almost 200-year history is nothing short of incredible. ”

Rev. Carlene O. Thorbs,
Chairperson of CB12 Queens

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demolition
under threat of
is
centuries ago
built nearly 2
house
Ketcham farm
The

“This would be a catastrophic loss for the residents of Community Board 12!”
— Rev. Carlene O. Thorbs

The Ketcham family was deeply involved in the affairs of Jamaica and Queens County in the 19th century; based on preliminary research, it is also very possible that the Ketcham Farmhouse was a stop on the UNDERGROUND RAILROAD. The next owner was Alexander Campbell, who invented bottled milk. For three decades, the Original “Gibson Girl” — May Callahan Flores was the owner of the house and for the past 34 years, the Ashley family has lived in this amazing house, restored it and kept it intact — and welcomed the entire community to participate in its protection and enjoyment. ”

Rev. Thorbs and Activist Paul Graziano speak out about the critical importance of preserving the Ketcham House

For generations, the Ketcham House has stood as a symbol of strength and continuity in Southeast Queens — witnessing the growth of families, congregations, and civic movements that define our community. Its preservation is not simply about saving a building; it is about defending the character of a neighborhood that values history, purpose, and people.

Contribute and Join the Fight to Save the Ketcham House! Sign the Petition & Contact Decision Makers Now!
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Local advocates stress that preserving the Ketcham House ensures future generations understand the struggles and triumphs that shaped this neighborhood.

On the 4th of August 2025,

It is not only about brick and mortar — it’s about protecting the spirit of a people and place.

When we allow pieces of our story to be destroyed, we lose more than walls — we lose the memory of who we are and how we’ve come this far.

Community Activists, Preservationists & Residents

QUEENS RALLIES FOR THE KETCHAM HOUSE

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Concerned citizens showed up on 24-hour notice to say a spirited "No!" to the demolition of the Ketcham House.

Community Activists Maureen Grey, Alicia Spears, Anita Diana, Aura Moody, Sandra Singh, Karen Odaira, Syeda Yeasmin and local residents Regina Stewart, Alvin Agard, Ashlyn Lewis, Donna Thomas joined a group of preservationists and others gathered together by Paul Graziano to say a resounding "NO!" to the frivolous destruction of community and heritage.

Community Activists, Preservationists & Residents

QUEENS RALLIES FOR THE KETCHAM HOUSE

On the 4th of August 2025,

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Carl Ballenas

Historian, Author, Retired Educator, President of the Richmond Hill Historical Society, Project Manager Friends of Maple Grove and longtime Ketcham House supporter.

Maureen Grey

Historian, Educator, Preservationist, Community Activist and head of SQHPS, Southeastern Queens Historical Preservation Society who is fighting for the preservation of the Ketcham House as a much needed museum and green space in the Southeastern Queens.

SPEAKING OUT FOR THE KETCHAM HOUSE

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Vicky Siebel

  Sign the petition, let the mayor's office know that this property has to be saved as a historical site and that there are Ketcham family members that are behind the preservation.

Family historian, blogger and descendant of the Ketcham family.

SPEAKING OUT FOR THE KETCHAM HOUSE

Award-winning Producer with over two decades in film, television, and digital mass media who is one of the most avid supporters of the preservation of the Ketcham House.

Championed as Los Feliz's Eco Warrior he is Co-Chair of the Cultural Affairs Committee, Los Feliz Neighborhood Council and active member of the Los Feliz Business Improvement District.

Brian Morrison

QUEENS RALLIES FOR THE KETCHAM HOUSE

Local advocates stress that preserving the Ketcham House ensures future generations understand the struggles and triumphs that shaped this neighborhood.

On the 4th of August 2025,

When we allow pieces of our story to be destroyed, we lose more than walls — we lose the memory of who we are and how we’ve come this far.

Preservationists, Community Activists & Residents

Concerned citizens showed up on 24-hour notice to say a spirited "No!" to the demolition of the Ketcham House.

Community Activists Maureen Grey, Alicia Spears, Anita Diana, Aura Moody, Sandra Singh, Karen Odaira, Syeda Yeasmin and local residents Regina Stewart, Alvin Agard, Ashlyn Lewis, Donna Thomas joined a group of preservationists and others gathered together by Paul Graziano to say a resounding "NO!" to the frivolous destruction of community and heritage.

Community Activists, Preservationists & Residents

QUEENS RALLIES FOR THE KETCHAM HOUSE

On the 4th of August 2025,

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Carl Ballenas

Historian, Author, Retired Educator, President of the Richmond Hill Historical Society, Project Manager Friends of Maple Grove and longtime Ketcham House supporter.

Maureen Grey

Historian, Educator, Preservationist, Community Activist and head of SQHPS, Southeastern Queens Historical Preservation Society who is fighter for the preservation of the Ketcham House as a much needed museum and green space in the Southeastern Queens.

SPEAKING OUT FOR THE KETCHAM HOUSE

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Vicky Siebel

  Sign the petition, let the mayor's office know that this property has to be saved as a historical site and that there are Ketcham family members that are behind the preservation.  

Family historian, blogger and descendant
of the Ketcham family writes . . .

Brian Morrison

Award-winning Producer with over two decades in film, television, and digital mass media once part of a crew that filmed at this historic house, immediately became one of the the Ketcham House's most avid advocates.

Championed as Los Feliz's Eco Warrior he is Co-Chair of the Cultural Affairs Committee, Los Feliz Neighborhood Council and active member of the Los Feliz Business Improvement District.

SPEAKING OUT FOR THE KETCHAM HOUSE

Historian's High Praise for Hollis' Hidden Treasure

It’s something that has been somewhat overlooked by time and is a survivor — still here with us today. It’s in very good shape and we can preserve it for future generations. – Jason Antos, Queens Historical Society (New York City, 2021)
Jason Antos

Jason Antos

Executive Director, Queens Historical Society
Queens Borough's Official Historian (2025)
Youngest Ever to Receive This Honor

Jason Antos was named the official historian of Queens by Borough President Donovan Richards (Sept. 2025). He is now "responsible for the preservation and chronicling of over 400 years of Queens County’s diverse and ... Read more ›

Protected by a thick line of blue spruce and other evergreens in a less visible corner of one of the most amazing and exciting cities in the world, there is a hidden gem — a bit of the country nestled in the midst of the hustle and bustle that is New York City — The Ketcham House.

Cloaked all year through in the green of the pines, arbor vitae, honeysuckle and hollies, the outdoor space is a seasonal kaleidoscope of colour that is a delight to the eyes. Then there is the brilliance of the wide white lawns, the snow balanced on the boughs of the evergreen and the yard decked out in Christmas splendour that are truly sights to behold.

If this house was in California, I would film here all the time! I think this is an amazing house, a great place to film. – Brian, Film Producer – North Hollywood, California (Oct. 2016)
I pulled into the driveway and was like, 'Oh my goodness!' It just looked as if someone had picked up a piece of land from the countryside and dropped it right smack in the middle of the city. Wow! – Judy, Visitor – New York City (Oct. 2016)
It’s something that has been somewhat overlooked by time and is a survivor — still here with us today. It’s in very good shape and we can preserve it for future generations. – Jason Antos, Queens Historical Society
Rob MacKay of the Queens Tourism Council and Jason Antos, Pres. of the Queens Historical Society

And this amazing homestead is exactly what Jason Antos, then president of the Queens Historical Society and QHS board member Rob MacKay of the Queens Tourism Council discovered as they led a walking virtual tour of Addisleigh Park, a neighbouring historical district renowned for having been the home of ‘talented figures like Ella Fitzgerald, Jackie Robinson, Lena Horne, Count Basie, and Cootie Williams.’ As the beautiful specimen of antiquity that is the Ketcham House loomed up before them, it prompted the filming of an introduction to the home. The broad smiles betray the feeling that this house is indeed an amazing find.

A GREAT PLACE TO BE!

A Stand-Out

This beautiful, easily-accessible and historic home was renovated in 2015 and is shining bright again. The Ketcham House is a home away from home for visitors from near and far. It has been selected for the making of films and commercials. And it continues to be a top choice for business people from around the world seeking to find that right combination of comfortable accommodations, English language instruction and guidance for NYC sightseeing.

- AIA Guide to
New York City

The AIA Guide to New York City is "hailed as a 'definitive record of New York's architectural heritage'... [and] is an essential reference for everyone with an interest in architecture and those who simply want to know more about New York City."

LOCATION FOR FILM-MAKERS

A Producer's Panacea

With ample space indoors and out, a large selection of rooms to transform, a number of options for outdoor scenery and excessive amounts of parking (including on-site parking for over-sized vehicles), The Ketcham House has attracted attention as being a great place for commercial filming in New York City.

SELECT

HOMESTAY & LANGUAGE STUDY

Learn English on Vacation!

At The Ketcham House you can learn English with an experienced speech and language specialist while experiencing the sights and sounds of New York City. Hands down, the best way to learn a new language is to be fully immersed in that language environment, and participation in the household activities allows for great cultural and professional exchange. Lessons are tailored to suit the English language level of the visiting student; business and other specialized coursework are also available.

SELECT

SHORT TERM LODGING

Room to stretch out and relax!

Whether you are in need of a single room or enough space to lounge about with your family, The Ketcham House may be just the place you are looking for. It's your choice of a student or business room or both with plenty of extra amenities such as: Private entrance; Fully equipped guest kitchen; Formal dining room & Large sitting room for guests; Big screen television; wide range of Fios channels; Free high speed Internet On-site parking and much more..

SELECT

NYC T-N-R INITIATIVE

Playing our Part!

To address the problem of the tens of thousands of stray community cats in NYC, the Trap-Neuter-Return program has been initiated where "entire colonies of community cats are trapped, sterilized, vaccinated, eartipped, and returned to their territory of origin." At The Ketcham House, we play a part. The registered colony of cats that frequent the property are fed, cared for and allowed the freedom to enjoy a humane feline existence.

FIND OUT MORE...

A GREAT PLACE TO VISIT

Quite a Stand-Out!

This beautiful, easily-accessible and historic home was renovated in 2015 and is shining bright again. The Ketcham House in Hollis, Queens is a home away from home for visitors from near and far. It has been selected for the making of films and commercials. And it continues to be a top choice for business people from around the world seeking to find that right combination of comfortable accommodations, top-notch English language instruction and guidance for NYC sightseeing.

peach tree
This large, freestanding, elaborately ornamented Italianate house is a remarkable throwback to the area's 19th century roots. Good console brackets. - The AIA Guide to New York City

The AIA Guide to New York City is "hailed as a 'definitive record of New York's architectural heritage'... [and] is an essential reference for everyone with an interest in architecture and those who simply want to know more about New York City. -Source

LOCATION FOR FILM-MAKERS

A Producer's Panacea

With ample space indoors and out; a large selection of rooms to transform; a number of options for outdoor scenery; both vintage and more modern spaces; a variety of curios and tchotchke on loan; and excessive amounts of parking (including on-site parking for over-sized vehicles), The Ketcham House has attracted attention as being a great place for commercial filming in New York City.

SELECT

HOMESTAY & LANGUAGE STUDY

Learn English on Vacation!

At The Ketcham House, you can learn English with an accomplished speech and language specialist while experiencing the sights and sounds of New York City. Hands down, the best way to learn a new language is to be fully immersed in that language environment, and participation in the household activities allows for great cultural and professional exchange. Lessons are tailored to suit the English language level of the visiting student; business and other specialized coursework are also available.

SELECT

SHORT-TERM LODGING

Room to stretch out and relax!

Whether you are in need of a single room or enough space to lounge about with your family, The Ketcham House may be just the place for you! It's your choice of rooms with plenty of extra amenities such as:

SELECT

  • Private entrance
  • Fully equipped guest kitchen
  • Formal dining room & Large sitting room for guests
  • Big screen television; wide range of Fios channels
  • Free high speed Internet
  • On-site parking and much more...

NYC T-N-R INITIATIVE

Playing our Part!

To address the problem of the tens of thousands of stray community cats in NYC, the Trap-Neuter-Return program has been initiated where "entire colonies of community cats are trapped, sterilized, vaccinated, eartipped, and returned to their territory of origin." At The Ketcham House, we play a part. We have trapped and neutered over 25 cats and will continue to participate in the programme. The registered colony of cats that frequent the property are fed, cared for and allowed the freedom to enjoy a humane feline existence.

FIND OUT MORE...

Hollis History & Preservation

Hollis History and Preservation Videos

These videos capture the rich history, heritage, and ongoing preservation efforts in Hollis, New York. They document the stories behind historic homes, highlight community initiatives, and celebrate the dedication of residents working to protect and preserve the character of their neighborhood.

Our Historical Timeline & Our Gallery _Travel Through The Decades

Find out more about the history of The Ketcham House in this wonderful Historical Timeline that details the lives and times of the families that have shared this outstanding property.  It's a great collection of videos, articles and images.  Do have a look!

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The Changes through the Ages

FROM FARMHOUSE TO BELOVED EMBLEM OF THE PAST

1

1922

The Ketcham farmhouse, used as garden nursery and stable in early 1900's.

2

1926

Modernized by developer; land subdivided with buildings built around the perimeter.

3

1990's

The Ashleys move in and bring the fullness and joy of family back to the home.

TODAY

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1

1922

The Ketcham farmhouse, used as garden nursery and stable in early 1900's.

2

1926

Modernized by developer; land subdivided with buildings built around the perimeter.

3

1990's

The Ashleys move in and bring the fullness and joy of family back to the home.

TODAY

FROM FARMHOUSE TO BELOVED EMBLEM OF THE PAST

The Changes through the Ages

↪  Check Out Our Historical Timeline

and . . .

ARTICLES & BOOK EXCERPTS - IMAGES & MORE

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View the Gallery

Snapshots of the Newsmakers

The Ketcham farm, house and its residents have managed to appear in the headlines and in books over and over again. In the gallery you get an opportunity to ready and learn more.

Visit the Gallery

Headlines & News Stories

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View Faces and Places

Browse the gallery and discover the places and the faces that have been associated with The Ketcham House through the ages.

Visit the Gallery

PORTRAITS & IMAGES

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The Ketcham House Gallery

Browse newspaper articles, book excerpts, images and more, and explore the outstanding history of The Ketcham House. Click and Learn more! It's as easy as 1-2-3!

Visit the Gallery

READ, BROWSE & EXPLORE

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ARTICLES & BOOK EXCERPTS - IMAGES & MORE

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View the Gallery

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