Harrison, NY: Where Heritage Meets Progress: Proudly Served by Sullivan Brill Personal Injury Attorneys in Tarrytown, NY
Nestled just 22 miles northeast of Manhattan in Westchester County, Harrison, New York, is a vibrant and historically rich community that offers a unique blend of small-town charm, historical significance, and modern affluence. As a coterminous town and village, Harrison is home to over 28,000 residents who benefit from its exceptional location, rich cultural fabric, and commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing progress. At Sullivan Brill Personal Injury Attorneys, our team in Tarrytown is proud to serve the residents of Harrison, providing reliable, compassionate legal support when they need it most.
A Deeply Rooted History
The origins of Harrison date back to 1696, when the British Crown granted land to John Harrison and a group of co-investors. Local legend paints a colorful picture of Harrison claiming the land by riding horseback in a 24-hour loop, but the truth is even more fascinating. The land had been the subject of multiple prior sales involving local Native American tribes and early Rye settlers. Disputes over the legitimacy of the ownership even led to Rye briefly seceding to Connecticut before royal intervention restored the region to New York.
Early settlers were primarily Quakers, establishing the Friends Meeting House in the Purchase section of town around 1725. Harrison’s formal incorporation as a town came in 1788. During the Revolutionary War, West Harrison’s Merritt’s Hill served as a strategic battleground in the Battle of White Plains, with Harrison contributing an entire regiment of Continental Army soldiers—Regiment 182—composed exclusively of local residents.
19th and 20th Century Expansion
Harrison experienced modest industrialization during the 19th century but remained largely agrarian compared to neighboring towns. The Metro-North Railroad (originally the New Haven Line) reached Harrison in 1848, enhancing connectivity with New York City and fostering suburban growth. A formal station was established in 1870, marking the village’s early shift from rural settlement to commuter hub.
One notable figure from the 19th century is David Haviland, who established the Haviland China business in Harrison before returning to France. His name lives on in local street names. Another remarkable structure, now known as Reid Castle on the Manhattanville College campus, was originally a lavish granite mansion built by businessman Benjamin Holladay in 1867. The castle’s Romanesque chapel and luxurious architecture made it a standout in the region and even hosted visiting royalty from Siam in the 1930s.
The early 20th century saw dramatic residential development. Real estate developer Sidney H. Sonn transformed the former Sunny Ridge Farm into a luxurious suburban neighborhood in 1929. Streets were landscaped, utilities modernized, and homes built with durable materials like old-growth oak, stone, and brick—many designed by Tudor-revival architect Julius Gregory. The area quickly attracted New York's elite, including prominent financiers, entertainers, and publishers.
Although the Great Depression slowed growth, the post-WWII boom reinvigorated construction, particularly of Colonial Revival homes that still define much of Harrison’s residential appeal today.
A Thriving Suburban Community
Harrison continued to develop throughout the 20th century, and in 1967 it adopted a unique town/village hybrid government model in response to the potential secession of the Purchase neighborhood. This move preserved unity while allowing the town to control development and expansion.
Under the leadership of long-serving mayor John Passidomo (1965–1983), Harrison grew significantly. He was instrumental in implementing one of the nation’s first seatbelt laws and in attracting major corporate headquarters to Harrison’s now-famous “Platinum Mile.” Global companies like PepsiCo, MasterCard, and Texaco established operations in the Purchase section, bolstering the local economy and adding to Harrison’s prestige as a business destination.
Geographically, Harrison covers 17.4 square miles, with 16.8 square miles of land and a modest 3.2% water coverage. Its central location offers easy access to I-95, I-684, the Hutchinson River Parkway, and the Cross Westchester Expressway. Commuters enjoy direct rail service to Grand Central Terminal, just 27 miles away. Harrison’s proximity to cities like White Plains, Rye, Mamaroneck, and Scarsdale further adds to its appeal for both residents and businesses.
A Community with Rich Diversity and Culture
Today, Harrison remains a sought-after destination for families and professionals alike. The town features a wide range of housing options, from stately Tudors and Colonials to modern homes, all nestled in quiet neighborhoods that maintain a strong sense of community. Parks, schools, and recreational facilities are abundant, contributing to a high quality of life.
Harrison’s school system is highly rated, and the presence of higher education institutions like Manhattanville College enriches the local culture. The college is also home to architectural and historic gems like Reid Castle, reinforcing Harrison’s blend of tradition and progress.
Harrison’s cultural diversity and community pride are showcased in various annual events, local markets, and recreational activities. Its proximity to both nature and city life makes it an ideal location for those seeking balance.
Legal Support You Can Trust in Harrison, NY
Despite its tranquil environment, accidents and unexpected injuries can still occur in places like Harrison—whether it’s a car accident on I-287, a slip-and-fall on private property, or a workplace injury at one of the local corporate offices.
At Sullivan Brill Personal Injury Attorneys, our Tarrytown-based team is proud to provide personal injury representation to Harrison residents. We understand the local roads, courts, and community—and we use that insight to advocate effectively for our clients. With decades of combined legal experience, we handle a wide range of injury cases, including:
Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents
Premises liability (slip and fall)
Construction and workplace accidents
Medical malpractice
Dog bites and animal attacks
Wrongful death cases
Our approach is client-centered, compassionate, and aggressive when it counts. We fight to secure maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Serving Harrison with Integrity and Dedication
Harrison, NY is more than just a town—it’s a dynamic, evolving community with a legacy of resilience, growth, and civic pride. From its 17th-century roots to its 21st-century prominence as a corporate and residential hub, Harrison continues to attract individuals and families who value history, opportunity, and quality of life.
At Sullivan Brill Personal Injury Attorneys, we are honored to be part of this story. We proudly serve the residents of Harrison with the legal advocacy they need in life’s most challenging moments. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to someone else’s negligence, contact our Tarrytown office today for a free consultation. Let us help you protect your rights and pursue the justice you deserve.
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