The cupola was removed in 2011 after Hurricane Irene damaged the already leaking frame that it sat on. It was replaced last month by a lightweight substitute. Concerns have arisen throughout the County about the inappropriateness of the modern and much smaller cupola because it is not true to the historical integrity of the building's design. From the perspective of the County officials who approved the change, the amount of money that it costs to fortify the structure to carry the weight of the original cupola far exceeds the budget allocated for the renovation of the Courthouse. 

In response to public outcry, DPW informs me that they are planning to assess a current projected cost for full restoration. They also mentioned that they are looking into the option of having an accurate (lightweight) replica made. Once these numbers are available the discussion can continue. 

At this time, the base and several boxes with the columns are in a pavilion at the Orange County DPW. The wood and tin work are in excellent condition.The bell is stored securely in an indoor location.The pieces were all carefully removed and numbered so that it can be restored if funding were to become available. 

Sincerely, 

Johanna Yaun

Orange County Historian

Please join us as we reopen and rededicate the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor on Saturday August 15th at 1:00PM.

All veterans and veteran's organizations, along with their family and friends, are extended an invitation to attend the event on the grounds of the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor. 

While being closed for several months, the Hall underwent a total renovation which transformed the facility into one that will welcome all veterans from every branch of service. With all new exhibits, video and state-of-the-art technology, all Purple Heart recipients, past and present, will enjoy this new world-class Hall of Honor.

We urge all veterans, families and friends to make a special effort to attend this auspicious occasion. Doors will open at 11:00AM and ceremony will begin at 1:00PM

Link to the Facebook invite for more information.

Presented by The Mustang Club of Orange County, NY! (Portion of Registration Proceeds to Benefit The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation)

Link here for more information on the Museum Village website.

Come and enjoy as Newburgh's Historical Society challenges neighboring communities to show their local pride. All ages are welcome and the winning team will be added to the tournament trophy. Event is co-sponsored by the Downing Park Planning Committee and the Newburgh Preservation Association.

Link here for more information on the Newburgh Historical Society website or take a look at the Facebook invite

Joey Senese has put together a great, detailed presentation covering the NYO&W's Port Jervis and Monticello branches. There will be many pictures and much information to be heard and seen. Also, local railroad memorabilia will be on display and refreshments will be served. Hope you can all make it!

Link to more information on the Ontario and Western Railway Historical Society Facebook invite.

Join Calvert Vaux Preservation Alliance President Alan Strauber for a view of the first major phase of renovation of the Hoyt House, a discussion of future plans as well as new information on the history of the property. Meet at the Hoyt House, Norrie Park in Staatsburg - $25 suggested donation (children free) to Calvert Vaux Preservation Alliance 

Link to the Facebook invite or email [email protected] for more information.

Join us for a day of fun, Greek and Roman style. Along side the neoclassical elements of Locust Lawn's mansion, volunteers from the Mid-Atlantic Classical Society and Legio XIII Gemina invite citizens and barbarians of all ages.

Watch Caesar's soldiers drill and see what kind of foods were common two thousand years ago, learn about styles and fashion from slaves up to senators, cast your vote in a Greek ballot, listen to a dramatic reading of one of the great founders of theater, learn slinging and more! A special display of original Roman artifacts will be on loan especially for the weekend.

Link to the Facebook invite for more information.

"It's the Family History Center at the LDS church in Newburgh.  The FHC has a group of dedicated volunteers who serve as research aides.  We have daytime and evening hours.  Most importantly, the FHC now has internet access to some very interesting subscription websites that can be used for genealogical and general research including Fold3 (military research), Find My Past (British research), Ancestry, World Connect and both an American and a British archival newspaper site. There is no charge to use the FHC; in fact, we are looking for customers.  The phone number is 567-4804 or researchers can contact me at 778-1369."  

Mary Ellen Matise 

Village of Walden Historian