The Snyder Estate
MID HUDSON
The Snyder Estate
http://www.centuryhouse.org/index.html
The Century House Historical Society
668 Route 213, P.O. Box 150
Rosendale, NY 12472-0150
Hours: May through October on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday, from 1pm - 4pm (or by appointment).
Notes: E-mail: mail@centuryhouse.org
Phone: 845-658-9900
Historical Description:
The Snyder Estate began in the early 1800s as a family farm. The Century House, former residence of Andrew J. Snyder, still remains on the estate. With the local discovery of natural cement, the site experienced substantial industrial growth until the 1970s. In 1992 the Snyder Estate Natural Cement Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places. The estate also features the Widow Jane Mine. This large limestone mine is within the 32-square-mile seam of limestone between High Falls and Kingston, New York where it was often said that just as much went on underground as above ground. Also located on the estate is the Cement Industry Museum, which highlights the use of Rosendale Natural Cement in the building of the most enduring landmarks of the nation. The Brooklyn Bridge, the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty, the wings of the U.S. Capitol, the Washington Monument, Grand Central Terminal, the Croton Aqueduct and dams, the Pennsylvania Railroad tunnels, the New York State Thruway, and thousands of public works projects all got their start underground in the cement mines of Rosendale.
The Site:
The Widow Jane Mine after closing has been used for mushroom cultivation, trout farming, water supply, corporate fallout shelters, and vital records storage. Today the Widow Jane Mine provides an exciting venue for historic interpretation and special events. Many musicians have performed and recorded there, taking advantage of its unique acoustics. The Cement Industry Museum exhibits and the Snyder Carriage and Sleigh Collection offer visitors an opportunity to learn about the vivid history of the Cement Region and the times and personalities of this great industry.
Directions:
Less than two hours from New York City, Rosendale is midway between New Paltz and Kingston, Exits 18 and 19 of the NYS Thruway (I-87). From Exit 18 take NY 32 north to Rosendale. From Exit 19 take NY 209 south to Stone Ridge, then NY 213 east to Rosendale. The Snyder Estate is on the north side of Route 213, a mile west of the village. Route 213 is a winding road as it follows the Rondout Creek. Please use caution when entering and exiting the site.