If you’ve lived in Manhattan for any length of time, you’ve probably wondered: Who lives in that castle on Poyntz Avenue? And why is there a castle in Manhattan?
In 2019, Richard and Jennifer Foveaux saw the Kimble Castle listed for sale online. Jennifer, a real estate agent, was captivated by the unique character of home, even though she and Richard weren't looking to buy at the time. The owners, Charlie and Kate Gillum, ended up deciding that it wasn’t the right time to sell.
Over the years, she and Richard kept thinking about the house. In 2022, Richard and Jennifer decided to see if the Gillums were ready to sell. “We always dreamed and prayed about it. We hoped that this was God’s plan,” says Jennifer.
However, Charlie and Kate were not looking for just any potential buyer. The continued legacy of the home was critically important to them. They wanted to find successors who understood that owning a castle built in 1894 requires both considerable maintenance and an appreciation for history. Thankfully, they found worthy successors in Richard and Jennifer.
Coincidentally, Richard and Jennifer had some commonalities with the original homeowners, Sam and Cora Kimble. “She’s a bit of a crazy plant lady,” teases Richard. It’s clear that Jennifer has a green thumb from the many vibrant plants adorning the home, including a towering Bird of Paradise plant by the family’s front door. Cora was also a plant lover and is considered the “Mother of Arbor Day” in Manhattan. She served as the caretaker for the land in Sunset Cemetery, planting many of its trees and shrubs. “She was more of a free spirit like Jenn. [Sam Kimble] was a judge, so he was more black and white like me. I have a degree in Mathematics and a Doctorate in Chiropractic.”
As a judge and the local Mother of Arbor Day, Sam and Cora may not seem like the most likely inhabitants for a castle. “Sam Kimble Jr. believed that an everyday person could live in a castle and could still be an everyday person,” says Richard. “Sam and Cora were kind, humble people, and they served the town with this home. They believed in the future of Manhattan.”
When I ask the Foveaux family about their favorite features of the home, there are many: the elegant La Cornue range; the kitchen tile, reclaimed from a castle in Europe; and wine cellar, which is converted from the Kimble’s vault.
Beyond all these individual features, Richard says the craftsmanship stands out. “The structure has stood the test of time,” he says.
Those wanting to get a taste of Kimble Castle can now stay at The Loft, a stunning space with oak floors, stained glass windows, and a gourmet kitchen. Outside the Loft, guests can relax by the fire pit or take a stroll on the nature trail.
“Even people who live locally will feel like they’ve gotten away,” says Jennifer.
Follow The Loft @ instagram.com/theloftatkimblecastle
“Sam Kimble Jr. believed that an everyday person could live in a castle and could still be an everyday person. Sam and Cora were kind, humble people, and they served the town with this home. They believed in the future of Manhattan.”