The Museum of the Colonial Dutch in the Hudson River Valley
Crailo is the museum of the Colonial Dutch in the Hudson River Valley. Originally a part of the vast landholding called the Manor or Patroonship of Rensselaerswyck, the Crailo farm was named after the van Rensselaer's estate in the Netherlands, variously spelled Crayloo or Cralo in the 17th century, and meaning "crows' wood" in Dutch.
Crailo was built in the early 18th century by Hendrick van Rensselaer, grandson of the First Patroon. Hendrick died in 1740 and his eldest son, Johannes, inherited Crailo. He remodeled the house and added an east wing in the Georgian style, reflecting the increasing influence of the English on the Albany-area Dutch.In the late 18th century, Crailo was remodeled in the Federal style. It served as a boys' boarding school in the 1840s and later as a church rectory. Each new venture brought more changes to the structure. In 1924 Crailo was donated to New York State for development as a museum. Crailo today tells the story of the early Dutch inhabitants of the upper Hudson Valley through exhibits highlighting archaeological finds from the Albany Fort Orange excavations, special programs, and tours of the museum.
Comments
I am looking for any pictures of the inside of fort crailo before the fire. Sometime in 1960’s or 70’s. I lived right next door and visited often. I could look in the upstairs window from my kitchen window. I have been looking for years. 🙏🙏
I would like some of those cookies, Miss Heidi! Crailo looks great and so much going on....thanks for all you do to make us aware.! x
I went to Fort Crailo on a class trip probably 45 years ago. I still remember it but I think I need to go back for a refresher.
Is the Ice Cream Discovery Day a drop-in between 12-3 type event or is there a set program that starts at 12?
Did you see you got a mention in the NY Times?