A Walk through Montauk Manor with Janice Nessel
There is far more to Montauk than what meets the eye. A destination for many, but with a rich history that is not forgotten. Janice Nessel, manager at Montauk Manor lives the history everyday, walking the halls of what was once a 1925 castle on a hill, but still stands and looks today as it did almost 100 years ago. We were able to step back in time with Janice as she walked us through what it’s like to operate Montauk Manor, the significance of it all, and one guest with permanent residence.
Give us a run down of the history of Montauk Manor. Set the scene in 1925 and take us up to the present day.
Once upon a time a man had a vision. The time was the summer of 1925. The man was multi-millionaire industrialist Carl Fischer, who was responsible for the development of Miami Beach, Florida. The vision was to create the “most fabulous summer resort ever imagined in the western word,” in a place called Montauk, New York. His resort would have a beach club, a yacht club, polo fields, glass enclosed tennis courts, a boardwalk extending for over a half a mile along the ocean, a ranch and health spa. Most famous of all would be his 200 room, English Tudor Luxury Hotel built high atop Signal Hill, The Montauk Manor.
In the Spring of 1927, a part of Carl Fischer’s vision became a reality, with the opening of The Manor as the grand centerpiece. Ballrooms were filled with the rich and famous of the day. Restaurants were serving internationally acclaimed cuisine. Croquet was played on the expansive front lawn. Tea was served on the veranda overlooking the entire 10,000 acre dream resort. In short, Montauk Manor was the quintessence of luxury…a fairy tale castle in a magical time.
But the ravages of time and economic change destroyed Carl Fischer’s dream, until virtually nothing remained, save the Manor which stands as a testimonial to the grandeur of days gone by. And now, this landmark has been restored, once again to its original splendor and beauty, allowing a limited number of fortunate people the opportunity of living in Carl Fischer’s “Castle on the Hill” in Montauk, New York.
The Manor contains 140 condominium apartment, a magnificent indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a private health club, a day spa, a restaurant and three outdoor tennis courts. Complete hotel services are available and all residents may enjoy the deluxe service which for so long had been the trademark of the Montauk Manor. The apartments range in size from studios, to deluxe three bedrooms suites, many residents enjoying the benefit of a private terrace or balcony. The large variety of layouts, and all but the studios are available as simple or duplex depending upon personal preference.
Explain the importance of Carl Fisher to the foundation of Montauk and the influence he had on the town as a whole.
Carl Fischer is responsible for transforming a small fishing village into a resort town with stunning coastlines that has grown over the many years.
How do you continue to tie in the history of the Manor into the operations of the resort today?
We’ve kept the integrity of the original exterior architecture of the building, including the restoration of the tower. When you walk into the lobby, it’s like stepping back in time—the original slate floor, arches and the two grand fireplaces. The lobby is stunning and has so much history.
There are rumors Montauk Manor is haunted. Have you ever experienced something paranormal while there? Debunk the myth or give us the insider’s scoop.
I have never seen the ghost myself; maybe he’s just used to me being around, but employees, locals and guests have either seen him or felt his presence. Guests who have never heard of the ghost reported seeing a Native American in full head dress floating through the hallways. The Manor is supposedly built close to the Native American burial grounds and it is the spirit of Chief Wyandanch, so they say.
Favorite memory of Montauk ever.
Raising my two children in Montauk—beach days, fishing, just being local. And, now spending time with my grandchildren in Montauk.
The best part of your job?
The best part of my job is interacting with guests and the friendships I have made over the years. And of course, the sunsets on our West Lawn, just being able to sit, or taking a walk around the property, you always catch a sunset.
What is Montauk to you?
Home. Wherever you go, there is no place like Montauk. Yes, it has changed but it’s still Montauk. Montauk is still a tight community where everyone is there to lend a helping hand.