A Property Where Prestige and Power Meet: 120-Year-Old Home of Famed Federal Judge Lists for $5.8 Million

Behind a long tree-lined drive in a quiet countryside community stands an esteemed estate that once belonged to one of the most respected federal judges in American history.

Now listed for $5.75 million, the historic property in Bedford Hills, NY, was built in 1906—and was, for many years, home to Judge Learned Hand, who is widely considered to have been one of the greatest justices to have served in the U.S., despite never ascending to the Supreme Court.

Known as a jurist, lawyer, and philosopher whose ideas on free speech and civic duty are still taught in classrooms today, Hand, who was born in New York, served for a record 52 years, much of which was spent in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit, a role he held from 1924 until his semiretirement in 1951.

This New York–based federal court was highly influential, and its rulings often shaped national policy, with Hand at its helm.

"No one with whom I have ever worked so plainly had the mark of genius," Indiana University President Thomas Erlich, who served as Hand's clerk, once wrote. "In substance and in style, he continually cut new paths."

Having been raised in Albany, NY, the legal pioneer spent the entirety of his life and career on the East Coast, spreading his influence to Massachusetts when he began lecturing at Harvard Law School—his alma mater—after he took a step back from his day-to-day job.

Given his status, it’s no surprise that Hand sought a country retreat away from the bustle of city life. This 6,230-square-foot estate, set on nearly 17 private acres, continues to offer that same serenity today, as a peaceful escape just an hour from Manhattan by train. 

Grounded in traditional Colonial and Beaux-Arts design, the home features yellow siding, black shutters, and window boxes that project from the roofline, all custom touches said to have been requested by Hand himself.

“It was designed specifically for him by the firm Delano and Aldrich, who also designed the Knickerbocker Club in New York City,” says listing agent Christine Foster of Corcoran Legends Realty.

“The history of this house is just amazing. I love it. The details, the craftsmanship, the grace of the rooms, it’s all still here.”

While Hand’s influence continues to echo through American classrooms, this home tells a different story, one of retreat and reflection. Set amid specimen trees, perennial gardens, and gently sloping lawns, the property offers the same solitude and balance that likely drew him here more than a century ago.

True to the refined elegance of Delano and Aldrich’s work, the residence embodies their ethos of symmetry and thoughtful design. Its high ceilings, broad windows, and perfectly proportioned rooms celebrate light and air, concepts that still define the home’s atmosphere today.

“The windows are amazing,” Foster says. “They let the light pour in from every direction.”

Inside, the house spans three floors, all fully equipped with heat and air conditioning. The main level features gracious living rooms with five working fireplaces. A grand staircase leads to the upper levels, where the third floor holds what Foster calls “a unique artist’s studio and atelier.”

With tall, north-facing windows and period detailing, it’s a space that feels both creative and serene.

“The current owner says this house reminds her of old Hollywood,” Foster adds. “It really captures that Beaux-Arts era with its sense of grandeur.”

Beyond the main residence, the sprawling estate also includes a guest cottage, greenhouse, and glistening pool framed by mature trees.

“The location is also superb,” Foster says. “You have easy access to shops, trains, highways, and schools, all within minutes. But once you drive down the long approach to the house, you feel as if you’re in the heart of the country, surrounded by peace, solitude, and privacy.”

After more than 30 years under the care of its current owners, the home remains in pristine condition—an ideal canvas for its next steward.

For those who value history, architecture, and timeless design, this Bedford Hills estate offers not just a connection to one of America’s great legal minds, but a chance to own a lasting piece of his legacy.