Our History

Learn the history of the Columbia County Historical Society, from our early beginnings as a women’s organization to our evolution over the last 100 years.

1916

The Columbia County Women’s Society in the City of New York was formed by four women with ties to Columbia County.

1917 

Organizational name is changed to Daughters of Columbia County. Knitting and sewing campaigns were held to benefit the Red Cross WWI effort overseas. Funds are raised to purchase two ambulances for the Red Cross.

1918

Men’s Auxiliary is founded and men are included for the first time. Name is changed to Daughters of Columbia County Historical Society.

1919

The search begins for a suitable memorial to house important document and artifacts.

1921

Daughters form an Albany branch, which was active until the middle of the 20th century.

1925

Purchase of the James Vanderpoel “House of History” for $12,500 with funds raised.

1926

“Daughters” is dropped from the group’s name, now “Columbia County Historical Society.” Men become full members as the Men’s Auxiliary is folded into the larger group.

1930

Vanderpoel House opens to the public as an experiment, two afternoons per week during the month of July.

1930–1960

Seasonal loan exhibitions in Vanderpoel House feature furniture, antiques, portraits and other objects.

1933

The 15th anniversary of the Historical Society is celebrated at the executive mansion in Albany.

1937

Restoration of the House of History is completed. Commemorative great oak is planted on the grounds.

1939

First Board of Trustees is elected.

1952

Ichabod Crane Schoolhouse becomes community center and is dedicated by Eleanor Roosevelt.

1962

Annual Gallery of Wreaths and Greens exhibition begins at Vanderpoel House.

1963

CCHS accepts William Van Allen’s gift of the 1737 Dutch house — now known as the Luykas Van Alen House.

1965

Van Alen House is listed on the National Registry as a National Historic Landmark.

1967

“Restoration 1737” drive to restore the Van Alen House.

1968

Delft tiles are donated to the Van Alen House by the Embassy of the Netherlands. Luykas Van Alen House is opened to the public.

1973–2002

Annual antiques festival on the Van Alen House grounds.

1973–Present

Columbia County school groups of fourth graders visit Van Alen House.

1974

The Ichabod Crane Schoolhouse moved from its original location at the intersection of Route 9H/Fischer Road to its current location on the Van Alen property, also on 9H.

1985

The museum building, formerly the Kinderhook Masonic Temple, then the Elks Lodge, is acquired by CCHS.

2002

Columbia County History & Heritage magazine is founded.

2008–2015

Vanderpoel House undergoes renovations.

2016

CCHS celebrates 100 years.

2020

James Vanderpoel House bicentennial.