Epstein Manhattan Mansion: The 40-Room Townhouse

The mansion at 9 East 71st Street is an architectural treasure:

• Built: 1930s, designed by architect Horace Trumbauer
• Size: Approximately 28,000 square feet
• Rooms: 40 rooms across multiple floors
• Features: Formal reception rooms, multiple bedrooms, staff quarters

The building was originally owned by the Hiestand family before being purchased by Les Wexner, who later transferred it to Epstein in a deal that remains controversial. The property was valued at approximately $77 million at the time of Epstein's death.

The mansion's ownership history is unusual. Les Wexner, the billionaire founder of L Brands, purchased the property in 1989 for $13.2 million. In 1996, ownership was transferred to a company controlled by Epstein - for just $20 million, far below market value for such a property.

• Wexner claimed he transferred the property to Epstein as part of their financial relationship
• Epstein had power of attorney over Wexner's affairs
• The transfer included furnishings valued at $9 million
• Wexner's wife reportedly never wanted Epstein to live there

After Epstein's arrest, Wexner claimed he was 'misled' by Epstein and had cut ties years earlier.

When FBI agents raided the mansion in July 2019, they found disturbing evidence:

• Photographs: Hundreds of photographs of young women and girls
• The Massage Room: A dedicated room for 'massages' with a massage table
• Safe Contents: Cash, diamonds, and a fake passport
• Surveillance: Camera systems throughout the property

Prosecutors alleged that the mansion was the site of sexual abuse of underage girls, who were brought to the residence under the pretense of providing massages. The photographic evidence found on computers and in the safe was central to the criminal case against Epstein.

The mansion reflected Epstein's bizarre personal style:

• Prosthetic eyeballs on the walls of the foyer
• A human-sized chessboard with pieces modeled after his staff
• A mural depicting Epstein in a prison yard
• Extensive art collection including works by major artists

Visitors described the interior as eccentric and somewhat unsettling. The decor seemed designed to impress and disturb in equal measure - a reflection of Epstein himself.

Following Epstein's death, the mansion became a focal point for legal proceedings:

• Evidence: Materials seized were used in the Ghislaine Maxwell trial
• Asset: The property was part of the estate subject to victim claims
• Sale: Listed for $88 million, eventually sold for $51 million in 2021

The buyer was Michael Daffey, a former Goldman Sachs executive. The sale proceeds went into the Epstein estate fund to compensate victims. Today, the mansion has new owners, but its association with Epstein's crimes remains part of its history.