A Bit of History

Rhinebeck is known for its big river estates, but we invite you to meet the everyday people of Rhinebeck as well. They are the people who you would have found at the village center as they went about their day-to-day routine, had you lived here long ago!

The image of the woman holding a broom was taken on Oak Street, a short but important street where many people got their first step on the ladder that is home ownership. This image is from the Museum of Rhinebeck History, which has allowed the use of this and a number of images.

Oak Street was sometimes looked down upon because small lots, just 40 feet wide, were intentionally created for people who could not afford more. This became an important step up the ladder of the American dream.

The couple shown are from the family album of a local man named Walter Patrice (DCHS Collections) whose family lived locally since before the Civil War. We imagine for this exercise the couple representing the many persons of color on Oak Street, perhaps one of the better known, Tom and Jane Williams. He was a well-known high-end chef, restaurant owner, and caterer, and they had a home on Oak Street for many years.

On this tour you will meet the full range of Rhinebeck residents, including a very successful middle and upper middle class and of course those who lived in the river estates!

Where to Learn More:

More information about the dreams created out of Oak Street can be found here at this link.

Image Sources: 

Woman with broom, Museum of Rhinebeck History.
Couple man and woman: DCHS Collections.