This classic federal style house was constructed in 1811 by James Given, who came to this country from Ireland at the age of 21. He made his way to Fishkill and opened a general store. He prospered, became a leading businessman and built a mansion which he called Shillelagh. The house was aptly named. It may have been the “luck of the Irish” that saved it from the big Fishkill fire in 1873 that destroyed most of Main Street. Tradition says that when the house was finished, workmen threw a bottle of spirits over the roof. The bottle did not break. Therefore, according to ancient lore, the house would never burn. It didn't. The fire that raged on both sides of Main Street stopped just short of Shillelagh.
The doorway moldings and porch with their slim proportion, elegant leaded glass panes in the side lights, and other classic details exemplify the best features of the Federal style. James Given’s grave may be seen in the cemetery of the Dutch Reformed Church where he was an elder and helped organize the Sunday School. During the 19th century, the house was passed down to family members. It has seen varied uses as a family residence, a lawyer's office, a doctor's office and most recently has been restored by the McHoul family.
The doorway moldings and porch with their slim proportion, elegant leaded glass panes in the side lights, and other classic details exemplify the best features of the Federal style. James Given’s grave may be seen in the cemetery of the Dutch Reformed Church where he was an elder and helped organize the Sunday School. During the 19th century, the house was passed down to family members. It has seen varied uses as a family residence, a lawyer's office, a doctor's office and most recently has been restored by the McHoul family.