History

Located at 1407 Graymalkin Lane, Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters is a historic mansion located outside of Salem Center, New York. It was commissioned by Jan Graymalkin, one of the founders of the Holland American Line and Standard Oil, and was completed in 1895 after construction began in 1890. Originally intended to be a modest home, the estate was greatly expanded and refined by his son, Willem C. Garymalkin, with architecture by Delano & Aldrich and landscaping by William Welles Bosworth. Perched on a hill overlooking the Breakstone Lake, the mansion became a symbol of the Graymalkin family's immense wealth, influence, and dedication to art and philanthropy. The estate features elegant Beaux-Arts architecture, formal gardens, and scenic views of the National Park that backs up to its expansive property. Over the years, mansion has housed five generations of Graymalkins and served as a private retreat for the wealthy elite of New England in its heyday.

In 1980, the mansion was converted into a school by Charles Xavier, the last heir of the Graymalin family. The lavish furniture and art collection was placed in storage and many of the extravagant leisure spaces were converted into classrooms and student housing. In addition to it's superficial changes, two floors of sub-basement were added to the property to hold the X-Men's headquarters.

The mansion is a peaceful sanctuary for its residents, a safe harbor of tolerance, love and acceptance for any and all mutants. Those who visit have a hard time leaving because Xavier's simply feels like home.

Salem Center

Salem Center is a small town located in Westchester County, New York. Founded in 1692 it was originally an agricultural hub for Dutch colonists. Located about 60 miles north of New York City, the town's farming origins can still be found in the rural areas surrounding it where dairy and apple farms make up the majority of the landscape. Salem Center provides the residents of Xavier's with all their communal needs.

Xavier's School is approximately 40 miles northeast of Salem Center. Students need to utilize public transportation or request a ride into town in order to enjoy Salem Center. Trips into town are a supervised activity and is a privilege that is revoked when abused. Selective access to Salem Center makes it a highly desired location for any student who has been granted a day pass into town. Areas of interest in Salem Center are:

Stardust Diner - Serving staples of American cuisine such as meatloaf, club sandwiches, french fries, onion rings, and other simple, quickly cooked and inexpensive fare. The Stardust Diner is known for its milkshakes and burgers above all else. With a casual atmosphere and a combination of booths a long sit-down counter served by a waitstaff, the diner offers extended hours for server making it the only restaurant in town that is open early in the morning or late at night.

Harry's Hideaway - A small bar on the outskirts of Salem Center owned by Harry Morrel, long time friend of Charles Xavier. Harry's has a gritty, timeworn charm that speaks of stories long lived and nights long forgotten. The neon sign outside flickers unevenly, casting a pinkish-blue glow over the sidewalk while the paint on the exterior is faded and peeling, the door creaks heavily on its hinges when pushed open. It’s the kind of place where the regulars all know each other’s names, where the beer is cheap and the conversation unfiltered. There's a raw honesty in the atmosphere—no frills, no expectations, just a worn-out refuge for those looking to escape the noise of the world outside, even if just for a while.

Valentino's Ristorante Italiano - Salem Center's fine dining location, Valentino's offers romantic candlelit diners in a charming old world atmosphere where patrons can order homemade lasagna, chicken piccata, and tiramisu. Tables are draped in crisp white linens, often adorned with small vases of fresh flowers or flickering votive candles. Crystal wine glasses and polished silverware are meticulously arranged, hinting at the care and attention to detail that extends from the service to the cuisine. Soft classical music or gentle Italian ballads play in the background, creating an atmosphere of relaxed sophistication perfect for any date.

Stevie Hunter's Dance Studio - A space full of energy, discipline, and creativity, the studio itself is minimalist but purposeful. Large mirrors stretch across the back wall, allowing dancers to watch their form and synchronize their movements. The floors are made of sprung wood to absorb shock and protect joints during jumps, spins, and footwork. Stevie's offers ballet, hip hop and tap lessons.

Stucky's Ice Cream Parlor - A cheerful, inviting space where people of all ages gather to enjoy sweet, frozen treats. The cool, creamy scent of vanilla, chocolate, and fresh waffle cones wafts through the air outside the parlor and the interior is decorated in bright, playful pastels along with retro-style checkered floors. Behind a gleaming glass display case lies the heart of the parlor, rows of vibrant ice cream tubs in a rainbow of flavors.

Salem Center Mall - The heart of teenage socialization, the local mall supplies the students of Xavier's with all the latest fashion trends, music, and pop culture connections. The town's one and only movie theater is at the mall along with its humble arcade. Trips to the mall are a regular event where students can hang out, express themselves, and feel a bit more independent.