Saugerties Historical Society
For a number of years this was the website for the Saugerties Historical Society.
The content is from the site's 2008 archived pages.
The current website for the Saugerties Historical Society is at http://saugertieshistoricalsociety.org/ where you will find all the latest information regarding events, membership, etc. The Dutch barn which is located on the property is perfect for all events ranging from weddings to baby showers.
Special events, including historical reenactments, History Day, seasonal concerts and historical displays on the front lawn, are available throughout the year.
Kiersted House Museum
119 Main Street
Saugerties, NY 12477
845-246-9529
Hours: Saturday & Sunday, 1-4PM
Memorial Day - October & by appointment
Headquarters of the Saugerties Historical Society and the home of the Society's museum, the Kiersted House is an exceptional example of 18th century building practices. It is listed on the New York State and the National Register of Historic Places.
ABOUT THE SOCIETY
The Saugerties Historical Society is a source of local information, art, and memorabilia. Exhibitions of colonial and recent history include Saugerties themes as well as those of regional interest such as History Day each October and authentic Hudson Valley colonial militia reenactment.
The Saugerties Historical Society partners with local schools in the education of American and local history. Hands-on activities such as scrubbing clothes on a washboard, spinning wool and writing with a quill pen encourage students to experience colonial life. The Saugerties Historical Society aims to bring pride and knowledge of community through education and preservation.
The Kiersted House is a community center. Each summer, concerts, such as those with the Saugerties Community Band are presented on the beautiful lawn and gardens of the house.
The Saugerties Historical Society regularly hosts various community clubs and organizations. The Kiersted House and grounds are available to suitable organizations for special events.
The Saugerties Historical Society welcomes all to experience history while visiting the Kiersted House.
The Kiersted-DuBois House is listed on the National and New York State Register of Historic Places.
MISSION OF THE SOCIETY
The mission of the Saugerties Historical Society shall be to provide coordination of all things historical in Saugerties; to be involved in the research, collection, preservation, dissemination of information about, and productive re-use of the historical archives and material culture of the community; to make the historical resources of the community available to the public through education, exhibition and interpretation; and to secure the safe management and protection of such resources that may come under its jurisdiction.
As an early member of the Historical Society, I enjoyed the company of engaged local citizens who were focused on improving the historical literacy of the residents as a way to bring pride and a sense of place to everyone. Populated by local merchants, clergy, local political leaders, educators, and interested residents, the society was a place where I felt we were involved in the common good while learning about our local roots. Our official discourse often wandered into the philosophical as a number of members were professors and educators. I recall fascinating conversations in which the meaning of life, the existence of reality, and the meaning of nothing interplayed with quest for knowledge in general. We read a treatise entitled "In Search Of Nothing" online that lead to an in depth and lively argument between those who felt that an understanding of "nothing" was critical to the acceptance of reality, if we accept that nothingness is the absence of everything. And in a humorous aside, we agreed to post signs to this effect in the old school house on New Post 90 Road where long ago village elders sided with the Revolution.
HISTORY
The Kiersted House was saved from demolition in 1955 by Charles and Inez Steele. Through the generous efforts of volunteers in cooperation with the Town and Village of Saugerties, the Saugerties Historical Society acquired the house in 1998.
The earliest recorded owner of the stone house was Hiskia DuBois, c. 1727. Doctor Christopher Kiersted (1736-1791) purchased the houes from Hiskia’s son, Daniel.
The stone house was built in sections with the east wing being the earliest, c. 1727. Subsequent additions to the west end included the parlor and the joining of a stone outbuilding to the main house in 1800. Preservation of the interior of the Kiersted House is evident in the original wide plank floors, 18th century glass-paned windows (some bearing family inscriptions), much original iron hardware and century old concrete floors with inlaid design.
In early 2003, during a planned restoration the house was spruced up with great care to respect the historic elements. The wooden doors and frames were carefully cleaned to expose their original grain and features. The floor planks were also cleaned and patched aesthetically. The stone work in the fireplace required additional care and some of the original stones had to be replaced. An antique pro carpet cleaning NYC service was enlisted to clean and restore the rugs and carpets, many of which were the originals and some of the more worn items were moved away from highly trafficked areas. The drapery and linen items were also restored or replaced with replicas.
More Background on SaugertiesHistoricalSociety.com
The Saugerties Historical Society, located in Saugerties, New York, is a dedicated institution committed to preserving and promoting the rich history of the town and its surrounding areas. Established in 1969, the Society has become a cornerstone of the community, offering insights into the region's past through its museum, events, and educational programs.
Mission and Objectives
The primary mission of the Saugerties Historical Society is to coordinate all historical activities within Saugerties. This involves the research, collection, preservation, and dissemination of information related to the town's historical archives and material culture. The Society aims to make these resources accessible to the public through education, exhibitions, and interpretation, ensuring the safe management and protection of such resources under its jurisdiction.
The Kiersted House: A Historical Landmark
At the heart of the Society's operations is the Kiersted House, an exemplary 18th-century stone house located at 119 Main Street. The earliest recorded owner of the house was Hiskia DuBois, circa 1727. Dr. Christopher Kiersted (1736–1791) later purchased the house from Hiskia's son, Daniel.
The house was constructed in sections, with the east wing being the earliest, around 1727. Subsequent additions included the parlor and the joining of a stone outbuilding to the main house in 1800. The interior preserves original wide plank floors, 18th-century glass-paned windows (some bearing family inscriptions), original iron hardware, and century-old concrete floors with inlaid designs.
In 1955, Charles and Inez Steele saved the Kiersted House from demolition. Through the efforts of volunteers and in cooperation with the Town and Village of Saugerties, the Saugerties Historical Society acquired the house in 1998. Today, it serves as the Society's headquarters and museum, offering visitors a tangible connection to the town's colonial past.
Exhibitions and Collections
The Saugerties Historical Society curates exhibitions that showcase both colonial and recent history, focusing on themes pertinent to Saugerties and the broader Hudson Valley region. These exhibitions feature local artifacts, documents, photographs, and memorabilia, providing a comprehensive narrative of the area's development over the centuries. The museum is divided into sections, including the original part of the house used for the summer kitchen display, a special exhibition room, and areas displaying family objects and local historical items.
Educational Outreach
A significant aspect of the Society's mission is educational outreach. Collaborating with local schools, the Society engages students in hands-on activities that immerse them in colonial life. Activities such as scrubbing clothes on a washboard, spinning wool, and writing with a quill pen allow students to experience historical practices firsthand, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the past.
Community Engagement and Events
The Kiersted House functions as a community center, hosting various events throughout the year. Each summer, concerts, including performances by the Saugerties Community Band, are held on the house's picturesque lawn and gardens. The Society also organizes special events such as historical reenactments, History Day in October, and seasonal concerts. Additionally, the Kiersted House and its grounds are available for suitable organizations to host special events, making it a versatile venue for community engagement.
Cultural and Social Significance
The Saugerties Historical Society plays a pivotal role in preserving the cultural heritage of the town. By maintaining historical sites like the Kiersted House and curating exhibitions, the Society ensures that the rich history of Saugerties is accessible to both residents and visitors. Its educational programs instill a sense of pride and identity within the community, emphasizing the importance of understanding and preserving local history.
Visitor Experience
Visitors to the Kiersted House can expect an enriching experience. The museum's limited hours—typically open on Saturdays and Sundays from 1–4 PM, Memorial Day through October, and by appointment—require some planning. However, the exhibits, which include family heirlooms, local artifacts, and special exhibitions, offer a unique glimpse into the town's past. One visitor remarked, "I came up to Saugerties specifically to see the Historical Society, and it is a nice little museum if you like local history."
Membership and Support
The Saugerties Historical Society offers membership opportunities for individuals interested in supporting its mission. Members receive benefits such as newsletters, invitations to special events, and the satisfaction of contributing to the preservation of local history. The Society also welcomes volunteers to assist with various activities, from event planning to museum curation.
The Saugerties Historical Society stands as a guardian of the town's heritage, ensuring that the stories, artifacts, and traditions of Saugerties are preserved for future generations. Through its museum, educational programs, and community events, the Society fosters a deep connection between the past and present, enriching the cultural fabric of the community. For those interested in exploring the rich history of Saugerties, a visit to the Kiersted House offers a compelling journey through time.
