Allowing Disadvantaged Kids to Attend Summerweek Camp

Historic Hudson Valley's living history day camp gives kids the chance to have fun while they learn about America's heritage along the Hudson. Hands-on activities ranging from "chores" on the farm at Philipsburg Manor to designing a landscape at Sunnyside stimulate the imagination. Each year, thanks to the generosity of donors, a number of children who couldn't otherwise afford to attend receive full camp scholarships.

Restoring the Manor House at Philipsburg

After years of active use and exposure to the elements, the manor house is in need of restoration. The roof, windows, and exterior staircases are deteriorated; the electrical and lighting systems are outdated. The manor house has taken on new importance with the installation of "hands-on" rooms where school children examine reproduction trade goods as part of curriculum-based education programs. A $250,000 New York State grant to restore the manor house must be matched dollar for dollar by other sources.

Presenting an After-School Program at Van Cortlandt Manor

This intensive new nine-week enrichment program teaches fifth graders from underserved school districts about the history, culture, and environment of the Hudson River Valley. By participating in activities like hearth cooking, spinning and weaving, and period games, the kids gain a better understanding of what life was like in the 18th century. They also enjoy opportunities to share their experiences with their families and classmates. Importantly, donor support enables Historic Hudson Valley to offer the program at no cost to the school districts or students.

Preventing Flooding at Sunnyside

Decades of suburban development upstream have left Sunnyside Brook more subject to flooding than ever. Recent storms have sent water cascading over the stream banks, washing out the historic roadway that leads to Washington Irving's cottage and undermining the retaining wall of the pond Irving called his Little Mediterranean. To date, the cottage has been spared, but elements of the landscape have suffered serious damage. Major drainage improvements must be put in place to prevent future flooding. A grant of $500,000 from New York State will cover approximately half of the project cost, but must be matched dollar for dollar.

Revitalizing the Landscape at Montgomery Place

The 434-acres of gardens, lawns, woodlands, waterfalls, orchards, and cultivated fields of Montgomery Place represent one of the most important landscapes in America . For generations, people have drawn sustenance and inspiration from this magnificent riverfront property. Historic Hudson Valley has launched a major effort to revitalize the Montgomery Place landscape, which includes restoring the early 20th-century gardens, eradicating invasive species in the woodlands, rebuilding hiking trails, and caring for trees in the arboretum. Funds are needed to buy plant materials, hire seasonal horticultural interns, retain professional arborists, and purchase tools and equipment.