History of the Hudson Valley

Originally inhabited by the Algonquian speaking Mahican and Munsee Native American people, Europeans first discovered the Hudson Valley in the early 17th century, a time of tremendous social and political upheaval.

The Dutch established the first Hudson Valley colony at Fort Nassau in 1610 as a trading post exchanging European goods for Native treasures.  The region remained at the heart of the New Netherland colonies until November 1674, when the Treaty of Westminster ceded New Netherland to the English.

Through much of the 1750s, the Hudson Valley became the bulwark of the British defense against French invasion during the French and Indian War.

During the American Revolution, the Hudson Valley was one of the major regions of military contention.  Part of the early strategy of the British was to sever the colonies in two by dominating the Hudson River.

Much of this plan was thwarted by the construction of an enormous iron chain stretched across the river at west point which greatly impeded the progress of British Ships through the Hudson Valley.

The completion of the Erie Canal on October 26, 1825 opened the Hudson Valley and New York City to commerce with the Mid-West and the Great Lakes Region, which helped the Hudson Valley to become an important industrial center.

In the early 19th century the Hudson Valley gained a reputation as a region of untamed gothic beauty, as popularized by writers like Washington Irving and through the landscape masterpieces of the Hudson River School painters.

The birthplace of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the Hudson Valley is still home to his legacy, residence, and presidential library.

Today, the History of the Hudson Valley is still alive.  You can explore some of the region’s rich historical resources by following these links:

Senate House State Historic Site

The West Point Museum

The D&H Canal Historical Society and Museum

The FDR Presidential Library and Museum

Washington's Headquarters

Ulster County Historical Society

Formerly “The Granit”, the historic Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is the perfect destination for anyone exploring the rich history of the Hudson Valley.  Perfectly situated on more than 400 gorgeous acres with stunning mountain views, this beautifully renovated historic hotel offers guests an unparalleled Hudson Valley experience.    

Have a favorite place to learn about Hudson Valley History?  Comment below, and tell us about it!