This Hudson Valley Post Office is a National Historic Site

Have you noticed the extensive amount of history throughout New York State? Within the Hudson Valley, there are pieces of history on every corner that we turn to.

Each County In The Hudson Valley Has A Historic Story To Share

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One town changed its name to a fictional character. Some granges throughout the Hudson Valley are still standing and hold meetings and gatherings. Eleanor Roosevelt, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and his cousin, Margaret Suckley all resided in Dutchess County, NY. Their homes are on display. Uncle Sam's home is located in Catskill, NY.

There are even ghost towns such as Roseton, NY which is located near Newburgh, NY.

Have You Ever Wondered If Your Post Office Has History Behind It?

This historic post office was built in the 1930s and was done in "the stone Dutch Colonial style". This was popular during that time period in the Hudson Valley.

The 32nd President Of The United States Was Involved With This Local Post Office

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President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, also known as FDR, played a role not only in the Hudson Valley but all throughout Dutchess County. He shared his views on the architecture of the surrounding towns of where he resided.

According to the Dept of Geography, FDR, " insisted that the model for this post office should be “Kipsbergen,” an 18th century Rhinebeck home occupied by his ancestors, the Beekmans. "

This Specific Style Of Buildings Can Be Spotted Throughout Dutchess County, NY

FDR was present during the dedication ceremony of the Dutchess County, NY post office. He was alongside the Postmaster, General James Farley and the Treasury Secretary, Henry Morgenthau Jr. This took place in May of 1939.

According to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, "President Roosevelt also brought in local artists to paint the post offices. Rhinebeck resident Olin Dows, a Vassar-trained artist and head of the Treasury Relief Art Program, was commissioned to paint the murals in the Rhinebeck Post Office. The murals depicted historical scenes from Rhinebeck's past."

The Rhinebeck Post Office Is On The National Register Of Historic Places

As of the 1980s, the Rhinebeck Post Office is on the National Register of Historic Places and also known as a "contributing property to the Rhinebeck Village Historic District."

USPC

6383 Mill St, Rhinebeck, NY 12572

Have you ever spotted this post office before? What historic sites do you know of? Share with us below.

6 Ways To Help Your Hudson Valley Neighbors

Looking for a way to make a difference here in the Hudson Valley? You don't have to spend money, maybe just a few hours per week of your time. Here are a few ways:

Have You Been To FDR's Cousin's House in Rhinebeck, NY?

Some may only know about FDR and Eleanor Roosevelt but there were other family members who played a role in the Hudson Valley.

Thomas Suckley and his wife Catherine Murray Bowne created history in Dutchess County, NY. Their estate called "Wilderstein" was designed in the 1800's.

According to Wilderstein.org, the meaning behind the name of their estate means "wild man's stone". This was in reference to "an Indian petroglyph on the property, a reminder of the cultural heritage that preceded European settlement of the region."

By the late 1800's, the son of Thomas and Catherine (Robert Bowne Suckley) along with his wife, Elizabeth Philips Montgomery decided to add onto the estate.

This "Queen Anne style mansion" is also known for its beautiful views, lush landscape and large property. There were three generations of the Suckley family members that lived at Wilderstein.

Who was related to FDR?

Margaret Suckley was not only just a cousin of FDR but they spent quality time together. She traveled with FDR during his presidency and gifted him his black Scottish terrier dog, Fala.

Margaret also helped FDR form his library located in Hyde Park, NY.

Some would also say that she was a "confidante" to him as well. Margaret was with FDR when he passed away in Georgia. She died at the Wilderstein estate in 1991 at 100 years old.

Margaret was the last resident to live at Wilderstein.

Wilderstein is also known as "the Hudson Valley's most important example of Victorian architecture."

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