Historical leaders and prominent figures helped shape not only the Hudson Valley area but all through New York state. I love finding historical pictures and information about people who once played a role in the world and also in New York state.

94.3 Lite FM shared that  General George Washington spent time in Newburgh, NY where Washington Headquarters is located. Sojourner Truth was known for her efforts in the civil and women's rights movement, advocating for others and sharing her inspirational stories about freedom. Truth was also born in the Hudson Valley.

Theodore Roosevelt Jr, also known as Teddy, was the 26th President of the United States in 1901. There's a picture of Teddy Roosevelt standing in a Hudson Valley town, 94.3 Lite FM mentioned that he was in Kingston, NY.

There are Hudson Valley businesses and attractions that these prominent figures once visited.

Dutchess County, NY Theater Holds An Incredible State Record


The Bardavon is located in Poughkeepsie, NY. This popular venue is also known as the Bardavon 1869 Opera House, Inc and it was incorporated in the 1970's.

The Bardavon Theater explained that they are a nonprofit corporation in New York state filled with events, history and more.

The Bardavon shared,

"Our namesake theater is the oldest continuously operating theater in the state, one of the oldest in the country."

The Bardavon Theater in Poughkeepsie, NY shared fascinating historical information about who visited their location.

SEE MORE: How Long Did George Washington Live In The Hudson Valley?

3 Of The Most 'Prominent Figures' Once Visited This Poughkeepsie, NY Attraction


The Bardavon Theater's history lives on in Poughkeepsie, NY. They explained,

"The Bardavon has often been a meeting place for important local and national civic and community events."

Events such as lectures, graduations, political rallies and more were also held at this location.

"Prominent figures such as Mark Twain, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and Theordore Roosevelt have made special appearances."

Besides Twain And The Roosevelts, Who Else Visited The Bardavon Theater?


It's fascinating to me that when we visited these historical buildings and establishments, there were once historical leaders who were in the same location at one point in time.

The Bardavon mentioned how Eleanor Roosevelt was the narrator of Hudson Valley Philharmonic in the 1950’s on their historical site.

"Andrew Carnegie attended a celebration for the laying of the cornerstone for the Poughkeepsie Railroad Bridge"

Today, guests can continue to visit the Bardavon to attend events, programs and performances. Additional information about the Bardavon can be found on their website and social media platforms.

What other celebrities, prominent figures did you know visited the Hudson Valley area? Which one of them would you have wanted to meet? Tell us more below.

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."

Gallery Credit: Allison Kay

The Only Way To Catch All of These 5 Sites Along The Hudson River

How Can You Experience The View Of All of These 5 Sites Along The Hudson River?

Spending time outdoors in the Hudson Valley is one of my favorite things, I also enjoy exploring different attractions and new experiences.

I took part in the Hudson River Cruises Sunset Cruise out of Ulster County, NY. Being on the Hudson River, seeing historical sites and soaking in the fresh, summer air was uplifting.

This is the only way that history buffs, nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts can experience these 5 sites along the Hudson River.

Take a look at what can be experienced along this cruise.

Gallery Credit: Allison Kay

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