Hudson Valley
The Hudson has always been an important waterway. It was heavily contested during the American Revolution and continued to be a primary artery into the present day. Over time, the beauty of the valley inspired schools of art and property along its banks was developed for the estates of wealthy and influential Americans. A great deal of history took place in the Hudson Valley.
Here are a few of the major points of interest:
Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site
America’s 32nd and longest serving President, resided at his family’s Hyde Park, NY estate throughout his lifetime. During his presidency, Roosevelt made over 200 trips to Springwood and it served as a place to host numerous important national and international guests. Following his death in 1945, the property was preserved as Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site.
Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site
The home of Eleanor Roosevelt is the only national historic site dedicated to a first lady. The house and property were dedicated as the Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site in 1977.
Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site
The palatial home of Frederick William Vanderbilt, known as Hyde Park, was constructed on his 600-acre property overlooking the Hudson River. The residence was built to provide an aristocratic lifestyle for one of the nation’s first wealthy families.
Thomas Cole National Historic Site
Artist Thomas Cole founded the Hudson River School of American painting. His home in Catskill, NY served as both his residence and studio. Cole occupied the house from 1833 until his death in 1848. The house and its property were preserved as a national historic site in 1999.
Martin Van Buren National Historic Site
Lindenwald, the home of America’s eighth president Martin Van Buren, was designated a national historic site in 1974. The property was purchased by Van Buren during his presidency and he took up residence in 1941 following his defeat for a second term. Van Buren lived in the home until his death in 1862.
Other things to see include the United States Military Academy at West Point, the site of George Washington’s headquarters on the Hudson and numerous museums and state historic sites. There is enough to make this at least a week-long itinerary.