Embedded Files
Chapter members are honored to own and care for our Chapter House, once owned by General Richard and Janet (Livingston) Montgomery, now operated as a museum.
The museum collection includes photos, genealogical documents, and local American Revolutionary War items.
It is open to the public during scheduled events, and by appointment.
1773
Judge Henry Beekman, one of Rhinebeck's most prominent citizens, gifted a home located on Old Post Road, now called Montgomery Street, to his granddaughter, Janet Livingston, on the occasion of her marriage to Richard Montgomery.
They soon settled happily into married life in their cottage, beginning work on their permanent residence that would later be known as the Grasmere Estate.
1775: Spring
While residing in the house, Richard Montgomery was offered and accepted the commission of major general in the Continental Army under General Philip Schuyler. Together they took command of the Northern Forces.
Their objective? Roust the British army out of Quebec and Canada.
1775-1802
On December 31, 1775, the Americans, under the leadership of General Montgomery, attempted to capture the walled city of Quebec. Montgomery received a mortal wound and died on the battlefield.
1802
His widow Janet would never remarry. She completed Grasmere and lived there until 1802 when she built her new home, Chateau de Montgomery. The new Annandale-on-Hudson estate is now part of Bard College, where it is known as Montgomery Place.
1928-1930
In 1928, the house was purchased by Mrs. Helen Reed de Laporte, founder of the Chancellor Livingston Chapter, NSDAR.
Mrs. Helen de Laporte deeded this historic house to the chapter in 1930.
It is now the oldest home in Rhinebeck, and is still managed by the Chancellor Livingston Chapter, NSDAR.
Google Sites
Report abuse