National Register Listing

Hudson Almshouse

a.k.a. Hudson Lunatic Asylum, Hudson Orphan and Relief Association; Hudson Area Association Library

400 State St., at the head of 4th St., Hudson, NY
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Social History; Education

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2008.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

In 1777, the Battle of Saratoga took place in upstate New York and is considered a turning point in the American Revolution. It was the first major American victory and led to France recognizing the United States as a sovereign nation and entering the war as an ally.
New York random facts
Columbia County, NY, located in the picturesque Hudson Valley, has a rich and diverse history dating back to the early colonial era. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Mohicans and the Wappinger people. In the early 17th century, European settlers arrived, including the Dutch who established trading posts along the river.

In the 18th century, Columbia County played a significant role in the American Revolution. It was a strategic location due to its proximity to the Hudson River, and it witnessed notable events such as the Burning of Livingston House by the British in 1777. The county also provided soldiers and supplies to the Continental Army during the war.

The 19th century saw significant economic growth in Columbia County, driven by agricultural and industrial development. Farmers cultivated wheat, corn, and dairy products, while factories producing textiles, iron, and paper emerged in the larger towns. The construction of the Erie Canal connected the region to the rest of New York State, further stimulating commerce.

In the 20th century, Columbia County experienced both social and cultural changes. The arrival of the railroad facilitated transportation and the growth of tourism, as people sought to explore the county's scenic attractions, including rolling hills, rivers, and historic sites. Gradually, the county became a popular weekend retreat for artists and writers, contributing to the flourishing arts and culture scene that continues to thrive in the present day.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Columbia County, New York.

  • 1614: Henry Hudson explores the Hudson River
  • 1664: Dutch settlers establish a trading post in the area
  • 1786: Columbia County is created from parts of Albany County
  • 1799: The town of Hudson is incorporated
  • 1800: The village of Hudson is founded
  • 1821: Construction of the Erie Canal begins, benefiting trade in Columbia County
  • 1845: Railroad lines connected to Hudson, enhancing transportation
  • 1851: The community of Chatham is incorporated as a village
  • 1870: The city of Hudson is chartered
  • 1917: Kite's Nest, the former home of writer Edna St. Vincent Millay, is built in Austerlitz
  • 1930s: The county experiences economic decline during the Great Depression
  • 1960s: Columbia County becomes a popular destination for artists and intellectuals
  • 1987: The Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area is established
  • 2000s: Columbia County experiences a revitalization through tourism and cultural activities