Dutchess County Hosts Inaugural Hudson Valley Heritage Fair

Dutchess County Hosts Inaugural Hudson Valley Heritage Fair

Poughkeepsie… Historic sites and organizations from throughout the Hudson Valley-Catskills “Path Through History” region will gather at Locust Grove Historic Estate on Sunday, May 17th, to celebrate the inaugural New York Heritage Fair at Locust Grove Historic Estate, 2683 South Road in Poughkeepsie. This free offering, which will take place from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., is a collaboration between Dutchess County, the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area, New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, the Greater Hudson Heritage Network, and Locust Grove, and it will provide a one-stop shop for the public to sample sites and activities from the Connecticut border to the Delaware Valley.

The day’s programs will include displays and presentations on topics ranging from the Revolutionary War to railroads to tinsmithing. Costumed interpreters will be on hand from Museum Village, the Purple Heart Hall of Honor, and member sites of the New York State Parks’ Palisades Region. Along with re-enactors of the 150th (Dutchess County) Regiment of New York Volunteer Infantry, a Civil War group, these interpreters will provide demonstrations of trades skills, musket, and cannon firing. Other exhibiting sites and organizations will have a variety of presentations with an interactive focus on hands-on history. Artifacts will be available for the public to handle and view, each telling the group’s story.

“This event offers a unique opportunity for Dutchess County residents and visitors from across the region to sample our 400 years of shared history,” said Dutchess County Historian William P. Tatum III. “We are delighted to welcome sites and organizations from throughout our region, especially those traveling from Sullivan County. Thanks to their efforts, the public will have a chance to learn about 4,000 square miles worth of history.”

“Locust Grove is so pleased to host the first Hudson Valley Heritage Fair,” said Kenneth Snodgrass, Locust Grove Historic Estate’s Executive Director. “As a not-for-profit museum and nature preserve, our mission is not only to protect our landmark buildings and grounds, but also make them more accessible to the public. We hope many people will come out to learn more about the amazing historic resources in our area.”

A full list of exhibiting institutions and additional event details are available at www.dutchessny.gov/history.

Author: Harlem Valley News