When the Vanderbilt family decided in 1901 to turn the conservatory at the mansion into a Turkish harem room, a fad of the day, this unusual building was commissioned so that large tropical plants could continue to be cultivated. Built by Lord and Burnham, the main features of the iron Palm House are the circular sliding glass windows which enclose the greenhouse.

The Suffolk County News reported at the time that, "A truck laden with ten tons of circular plate glass and drawn by eight horses arrived from the city at Idle Hour at midnight yesterday."

The two and a half story house has a large living-dining area, a second floor, and is topped by a large square glass monitor. Located at the northeast corner of Idle Hour Boulevard and Connetquot Drive, within sight of the mansion, the Palm House has been a private residence for many years.

Adjoining the Palm House were the many greenhouses, continuing eastward to the gardener’s tool house and potting shed. Most of the greenhouses were destroyed by fire in 1891. Two of the greenhouses were converted in 1928 into the "Greenery" tea room; subsequently, it was named the "Thumb-bit Inn."

Our next stop is at the Toolhouse and Potting Shed.