Esopus

Ulster County, NY

 Audubon | Birding | Bird Watchingbird birds birder watching twitching twitchers nesting eggs tourist attractions tourism tour touring guide visit visiting travel traveler explore vacation holiday sights sightsee places interest highlights day tripper things outdoor activities family trip fun biking hiking fishing boating parks trails golf courses cross country skiing sledding apple berry pumpkin picking countryside historic sites children history the hudson valley playgrounds

 Things To Do, Birding, watching bald eagles, Nature Study, Hiking Trails, Esopus Lighthouse, restaurants in New Paltz, south of Kingston, northeastern Ulster County, New York State, woodland trails,  striped bass, Hudson River views Esopus Meadows Preserve "Scenic Hudson Valley"

 
Esopus Meadows Preserve
Town of Esopus, Ulster County
Hudson River Valley, New York State

The Esopus Meadows Preserve is located in the Town of Esopus, along the Hudson River, south of Kingston, in northeastern Ulster County, New York State. This 93-acre preserve is owned and managed by Scenic Hudson.

Esopus Meadows Preserve offers two miles of woodland trails and a shoreline with stunning Hudson River views. The shallow waters just offshore of the park are among the Hudson’s most important spawning grounds for striped bass. This impressive 2-mile trail network runs along the Hudson River and through woodlands, alongside wetlands, and above the Klyne Esopus Kill.

Things To Do at Esopus Meadows Preserve
Birding at this prime spot for watching bald eagles
Hiking Trails
Nature Study along 3,500 feet of shoreline
View of the 1871 Esopus Lighthouse in the Hudson River.

Directions
Crossing the Mid-Hudson Bridge from east to west, take Route 9W north for 10.3 miles. Right on River Road. Proceed 1.3 miles. Entrance on right.

Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, and the Esopus Meadows Preserve.

After a day of birding, hiking, nature study, or relaxing in the fresh sea breezes, pack a picnic from the healthy produce at one of the local farms in the area. Or select one of many excellent restaurants in New Paltz or greater Ulster County.


Also in Category
Activities | Things To Do
Attractions | Places To Go
Children | Kids - Activities | Things To Do
Children | Kids - Attractions | Places To Go
Gardens, Nature Centers & Nature Trails
Hiking Trails | Walking Trails
Parks | Local and State
Scenic Hudson Valley

 Children | Kids - Activities | Things To Dochildren kids things activities activity childrens education educational fun games kid website websites pbs pbskids disney tele tubbies

 12429, History of the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse, Esopus, NY, lighthouse, light tower, National Register of Historic Places, museum, photos, history, restoration photos, Things To Do at The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse, Historic Site, Tour the Lighthouse Esopus Meadows Lighthouse

845-331-1478 
History of the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse
The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse is located in Esopus, NY 12429 in Ulster County. The lighthouse, fondly nicknamed "The Maid of the Meadows", was completed in 1871. It replaced an earlier structure built in 1839 on land ceded to the United States Government from the state of New York. The lighthouse was needed on the Hudson River to warn mariners of the mud flats known as the Esopus Meadows located off the western shore of the river.

The lighthouse was built on a new foundation, located to the south of the former location, traces of which are still visible on the adjoining small island. Two hundred and fifty piles, each 40 feet long, were driven into the river bottom. They were cut off three feet below the mean water mark, capped with 12 inch square timers and topped with a deck of three-inch pine. Granite blocks were stacked 16 feet high producing a pier with a diameter 49 feet at the base and 46 feet at the top. On top of this pier was built a wooden keeper's dwelling with a mansard roof and clapboard exterior. Inside the house is a kitchen, sitting room and equipment room on the first floor and three bedrooms and a bath on the second.

The light tower extends above the living quarters with an octagonal deck housing the light. Situated 53 feet above the mean water line, the lantern room previously contained an optic fifth-order Fresnel lens providing a 270 degree arc of light that was visible for 12 nautical miles.

The lighthouse was tended by resident keeper until 1965 when it was converted to an automatic solar powered system. Although only accessible by boat, without the care of on-site keepers, the lighthouse fell into the ruinous hands of vandals and Mother Nature.

In 1979, the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The road to restoration didn’t really begin until 1990 when the Save Esopus Lighthouse Commission was formed. The concerned volunteers, under the direction of Arline Fitzpatrick, leased the site from the Coast Guard and began extensive restoration efforts. SELC raised funds from various sources to cover emergency repairs, extensive carpentry, painting and shingling of the mansard roof.

By 1997, a reorganization of SELC, as well as new volunteers from the Aids to Navigation Coast Guard Station in Saugerties, continued to bring the lighthouse back to life.

The fall of 2000 brought an impressive milestone in restoration efforts – stabilization and leveling of the house was completed.

July 2001 brought another milestone for the lighthouse. The restoration was reorganized as a museum under the New York State Regents providing a provisional charter as the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse which allows the pursuit of additional funding and ownership of the house.

In September 2002, the lighthouse stewardship was formally granted by the General Services Administration to the newly-chartered Esopus Meadows Lighthouse.

Perhaps the most rewarding achievement to date happened on May 31, 2003. After 38 years of darkness, a new light was installed in the tower, thereby deeming the house “a working navigational aid.”

Press blue button for photos, history, restoration photos, and more about the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse.

Things To Do at The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse
Historic Site
Museum
Tour the Lighthouse


Also in Category
Activities | Things To Do
Attractions | Places To Go
Children | Kids - Attractions | Places To Go
Educational Programs for Kids
Historic Sites | History
Lighthouses
Town History

 Things To Do, Birding, watching bald eagles, Nature Study, Hiking Trails, Esopus Lighthouse, restaurants in New Paltz, south of Kingston, northeastern Ulster County, New York State, woodland trails,  striped bass, Hudson River views Esopus Meadows Preserve "Scenic Hudson Valley"

 
Esopus Meadows Preserve
Town of Esopus, Ulster County
Hudson River Valley, New York State

The Esopus Meadows Preserve is located in the Town of Esopus, along the Hudson River, south of Kingston, in northeastern Ulster County, New York State. This 93-acre preserve is owned and managed by Scenic Hudson.

Esopus Meadows Preserve offers two miles of woodland trails and a shoreline with stunning Hudson River views. The shallow waters just offshore of the park are among the Hudson’s most important spawning grounds for striped bass. This impressive 2-mile trail network runs along the Hudson River and through woodlands, alongside wetlands, and above the Klyne Esopus Kill.

Things To Do at Esopus Meadows Preserve
Birding at this prime spot for watching bald eagles
Hiking Trails
Nature Study along 3,500 feet of shoreline
View of the 1871 Esopus Lighthouse in the Hudson River.

Directions
Crossing the Mid-Hudson Bridge from east to west, take Route 9W north for 10.3 miles. Right on River Road. Proceed 1.3 miles. Entrance on right.

Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, and the Esopus Meadows Preserve.

After a day of birding, hiking, nature study, or relaxing in the fresh sea breezes, pack a picnic from the healthy produce at one of the local farms in the area. Or select one of many excellent restaurants in New Paltz or greater Ulster County.


Also in Category
Activities | Things To Do
Attractions | Places To Go
Audubon | Birding | Bird Watching
Children | Kids - Attractions | Places To Go
Gardens, Nature Centers & Nature Trails
Hiking Trails | Walking Trails
Parks | Local and State
Scenic Hudson Valley

 Children | Kids - Attractions | Places To Gochildren kids things activities activity childrens education educational fun games kid website websites pbs pbskids disney tele tubbies

 12429, History of the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse, Esopus, NY, lighthouse, light tower, National Register of Historic Places, museum, photos, history, restoration photos, Things To Do at The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse, Historic Site, Tour the Lighthouse Esopus Meadows Lighthouse

845-331-1478 
History of the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse
The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse is located in Esopus, NY 12429 in Ulster County. The lighthouse, fondly nicknamed "The Maid of the Meadows", was completed in 1871. It replaced an earlier structure built in 1839 on land ceded to the United States Government from the state of New York. The lighthouse was needed on the Hudson River to warn mariners of the mud flats known as the Esopus Meadows located off the western shore of the river.

The lighthouse was built on a new foundation, located to the south of the former location, traces of which are still visible on the adjoining small island. Two hundred and fifty piles, each 40 feet long, were driven into the river bottom. They were cut off three feet below the mean water mark, capped with 12 inch square timers and topped with a deck of three-inch pine. Granite blocks were stacked 16 feet high producing a pier with a diameter 49 feet at the base and 46 feet at the top. On top of this pier was built a wooden keeper's dwelling with a mansard roof and clapboard exterior. Inside the house is a kitchen, sitting room and equipment room on the first floor and three bedrooms and a bath on the second.

The light tower extends above the living quarters with an octagonal deck housing the light. Situated 53 feet above the mean water line, the lantern room previously contained an optic fifth-order Fresnel lens providing a 270 degree arc of light that was visible for 12 nautical miles.

The lighthouse was tended by resident keeper until 1965 when it was converted to an automatic solar powered system. Although only accessible by boat, without the care of on-site keepers, the lighthouse fell into the ruinous hands of vandals and Mother Nature.

In 1979, the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The road to restoration didn’t really begin until 1990 when the Save Esopus Lighthouse Commission was formed. The concerned volunteers, under the direction of Arline Fitzpatrick, leased the site from the Coast Guard and began extensive restoration efforts. SELC raised funds from various sources to cover emergency repairs, extensive carpentry, painting and shingling of the mansard roof.

By 1997, a reorganization of SELC, as well as new volunteers from the Aids to Navigation Coast Guard Station in Saugerties, continued to bring the lighthouse back to life.

The fall of 2000 brought an impressive milestone in restoration efforts – stabilization and leveling of the house was completed.

July 2001 brought another milestone for the lighthouse. The restoration was reorganized as a museum under the New York State Regents providing a provisional charter as the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse which allows the pursuit of additional funding and ownership of the house.

In September 2002, the lighthouse stewardship was formally granted by the General Services Administration to the newly-chartered Esopus Meadows Lighthouse.

Perhaps the most rewarding achievement to date happened on May 31, 2003. After 38 years of darkness, a new light was installed in the tower, thereby deeming the house “a working navigational aid.”

Press blue button for photos, history, restoration photos, and more about the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse.

Things To Do at The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse
Historic Site
Museum
Tour the Lighthouse


Also in Category
Activities | Things To Do
Attractions | Places To Go
Children | Kids - Activities | Things To Do
Educational Programs for Kids
Historic Sites | History
Lighthouses
Town History

 Things To Do, Birding, watching bald eagles, Nature Study, Hiking Trails, Esopus Lighthouse, restaurants in New Paltz, south of Kingston, northeastern Ulster County, New York State, woodland trails,  striped bass, Hudson River views Esopus Meadows Preserve "Scenic Hudson Valley"

 
Esopus Meadows Preserve
Town of Esopus, Ulster County
Hudson River Valley, New York State

The Esopus Meadows Preserve is located in the Town of Esopus, along the Hudson River, south of Kingston, in northeastern Ulster County, New York State. This 93-acre preserve is owned and managed by Scenic Hudson.

Esopus Meadows Preserve offers two miles of woodland trails and a shoreline with stunning Hudson River views. The shallow waters just offshore of the park are among the Hudson’s most important spawning grounds for striped bass. This impressive 2-mile trail network runs along the Hudson River and through woodlands, alongside wetlands, and above the Klyne Esopus Kill.

Things To Do at Esopus Meadows Preserve
Birding at this prime spot for watching bald eagles
Hiking Trails
Nature Study along 3,500 feet of shoreline
View of the 1871 Esopus Lighthouse in the Hudson River.

Directions
Crossing the Mid-Hudson Bridge from east to west, take Route 9W north for 10.3 miles. Right on River Road. Proceed 1.3 miles. Entrance on right.

Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, and the Esopus Meadows Preserve.

After a day of birding, hiking, nature study, or relaxing in the fresh sea breezes, pack a picnic from the healthy produce at one of the local farms in the area. Or select one of many excellent restaurants in New Paltz or greater Ulster County.


Also in Category
Activities | Things To Do
Attractions | Places To Go
Audubon | Birding | Bird Watching
Children | Kids - Activities | Things To Do
Gardens, Nature Centers & Nature Trails
Hiking Trails | Walking Trails
Parks | Local and State
Scenic Hudson Valley

 Educational Programs for Kidseducational activity attractions for kids children activities websites content fun childrens young teens sites quality time science math reading age appropriate

 12429, History of the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse, Esopus, NY, lighthouse, light tower, National Register of Historic Places, museum, photos, history, restoration photos, Things To Do at The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse, Historic Site, Tour the Lighthouse Esopus Meadows Lighthouse

845-331-1478 
History of the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse
The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse is located in Esopus, NY 12429 in Ulster County. The lighthouse, fondly nicknamed "The Maid of the Meadows", was completed in 1871. It replaced an earlier structure built in 1839 on land ceded to the United States Government from the state of New York. The lighthouse was needed on the Hudson River to warn mariners of the mud flats known as the Esopus Meadows located off the western shore of the river.

The lighthouse was built on a new foundation, located to the south of the former location, traces of which are still visible on the adjoining small island. Two hundred and fifty piles, each 40 feet long, were driven into the river bottom. They were cut off three feet below the mean water mark, capped with 12 inch square timers and topped with a deck of three-inch pine. Granite blocks were stacked 16 feet high producing a pier with a diameter 49 feet at the base and 46 feet at the top. On top of this pier was built a wooden keeper's dwelling with a mansard roof and clapboard exterior. Inside the house is a kitchen, sitting room and equipment room on the first floor and three bedrooms and a bath on the second.

The light tower extends above the living quarters with an octagonal deck housing the light. Situated 53 feet above the mean water line, the lantern room previously contained an optic fifth-order Fresnel lens providing a 270 degree arc of light that was visible for 12 nautical miles.

The lighthouse was tended by resident keeper until 1965 when it was converted to an automatic solar powered system. Although only accessible by boat, without the care of on-site keepers, the lighthouse fell into the ruinous hands of vandals and Mother Nature.

In 1979, the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The road to restoration didn’t really begin until 1990 when the Save Esopus Lighthouse Commission was formed. The concerned volunteers, under the direction of Arline Fitzpatrick, leased the site from the Coast Guard and began extensive restoration efforts. SELC raised funds from various sources to cover emergency repairs, extensive carpentry, painting and shingling of the mansard roof.

By 1997, a reorganization of SELC, as well as new volunteers from the Aids to Navigation Coast Guard Station in Saugerties, continued to bring the lighthouse back to life.

The fall of 2000 brought an impressive milestone in restoration efforts – stabilization and leveling of the house was completed.

July 2001 brought another milestone for the lighthouse. The restoration was reorganized as a museum under the New York State Regents providing a provisional charter as the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse which allows the pursuit of additional funding and ownership of the house.

In September 2002, the lighthouse stewardship was formally granted by the General Services Administration to the newly-chartered Esopus Meadows Lighthouse.

Perhaps the most rewarding achievement to date happened on May 31, 2003. After 38 years of darkness, a new light was installed in the tower, thereby deeming the house “a working navigational aid.”

Press blue button for photos, history, restoration photos, and more about the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse.

Things To Do at The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse
Historic Site
Museum
Tour the Lighthouse


Also in Category
Activities | Things To Do
Attractions | Places To Go
Children | Kids - Activities | Things To Do
Children | Kids - Attractions | Places To Go
Historic Sites | History
Lighthouses
Town History

 Gardens, Nature Centers & Nature Trailsattractions hudson river valley thing outdoors flowers garden walk birds trees plants kids children activity outside explore exploring tourist tourism tour touring guide visit travel traveler vacation holiday sights places interest daytrip things outdoor activities family day trip fun biking hiking fishing boating parks trails golf courses cross country skiing sledding apple berry pumpkin picking countryside historic sites history the playgrounds

 Things To Do, Birding, watching bald eagles, Nature Study, Hiking Trails, Esopus Lighthouse, restaurants in New Paltz, south of Kingston, northeastern Ulster County, New York State, woodland trails,  striped bass, Hudson River views Esopus Meadows Preserve "Scenic Hudson Valley"

 
Esopus Meadows Preserve
Town of Esopus, Ulster County
Hudson River Valley, New York State

The Esopus Meadows Preserve is located in the Town of Esopus, along the Hudson River, south of Kingston, in northeastern Ulster County, New York State. This 93-acre preserve is owned and managed by Scenic Hudson.

Esopus Meadows Preserve offers two miles of woodland trails and a shoreline with stunning Hudson River views. The shallow waters just offshore of the park are among the Hudson’s most important spawning grounds for striped bass. This impressive 2-mile trail network runs along the Hudson River and through woodlands, alongside wetlands, and above the Klyne Esopus Kill.

Things To Do at Esopus Meadows Preserve
Birding at this prime spot for watching bald eagles
Hiking Trails
Nature Study along 3,500 feet of shoreline
View of the 1871 Esopus Lighthouse in the Hudson River.

Directions
Crossing the Mid-Hudson Bridge from east to west, take Route 9W north for 10.3 miles. Right on River Road. Proceed 1.3 miles. Entrance on right.

Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, and the Esopus Meadows Preserve.

After a day of birding, hiking, nature study, or relaxing in the fresh sea breezes, pack a picnic from the healthy produce at one of the local farms in the area. Or select one of many excellent restaurants in New Paltz or greater Ulster County.


Also in Category
Activities | Things To Do
Attractions | Places To Go
Audubon | Birding | Bird Watching
Children | Kids - Activities | Things To Do
Children | Kids - Attractions | Places To Go
Hiking Trails | Walking Trails
Parks | Local and State
Scenic Hudson Valley

 Hiking Trails | Walking Trailshike hiker walk trail path paths appalachian tourist attractions tourism tour touring guide visit visiting travel trip explore exploring vacation holiday sights sightsee day tripper hudson river valley bear mountain things outdoor activities family fun biking hiking fishing boating parks trails golf courses cross country skiing sledding apple berry pumpkin picking countryside historic sites children history the playgrounds

 Things To Do, Birding, watching bald eagles, Nature Study, Hiking Trails, Esopus Lighthouse, restaurants in New Paltz, south of Kingston, northeastern Ulster County, New York State, woodland trails,  striped bass, Hudson River views Esopus Meadows Preserve "Scenic Hudson Valley"

 
Esopus Meadows Preserve
Town of Esopus, Ulster County
Hudson River Valley, New York State

The Esopus Meadows Preserve is located in the Town of Esopus, along the Hudson River, south of Kingston, in northeastern Ulster County, New York State. This 93-acre preserve is owned and managed by Scenic Hudson.

Esopus Meadows Preserve offers two miles of woodland trails and a shoreline with stunning Hudson River views. The shallow waters just offshore of the park are among the Hudson’s most important spawning grounds for striped bass. This impressive 2-mile trail network runs along the Hudson River and through woodlands, alongside wetlands, and above the Klyne Esopus Kill.

Things To Do at Esopus Meadows Preserve
Birding at this prime spot for watching bald eagles
Hiking Trails
Nature Study along 3,500 feet of shoreline
View of the 1871 Esopus Lighthouse in the Hudson River.

Directions
Crossing the Mid-Hudson Bridge from east to west, take Route 9W north for 10.3 miles. Right on River Road. Proceed 1.3 miles. Entrance on right.

Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, and the Esopus Meadows Preserve.

After a day of birding, hiking, nature study, or relaxing in the fresh sea breezes, pack a picnic from the healthy produce at one of the local farms in the area. Or select one of many excellent restaurants in New Paltz or greater Ulster County.


Also in Category
Activities | Things To Do
Attractions | Places To Go
Audubon | Birding | Bird Watching
Children | Kids - Activities | Things To Do
Children | Kids - Attractions | Places To Go
Gardens, Nature Centers & Nature Trails
Parks | Local and State
Scenic Hudson Valley

 Historic Sites | Historyhistoric, national trust landmark site heritage mansions famous houses homes historical history circa hudson river valley group guided tours tour tourist visit visiting travel vacation holiday attraction sights sightsee point of interest explore, activities | attractions | restaurants, attraction tour tourist visit

 12429, History of the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse, Esopus, NY, lighthouse, light tower, National Register of Historic Places, museum, photos, history, restoration photos, Things To Do at The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse, Historic Site, Tour the Lighthouse Esopus Meadows Lighthouse

845-331-1478 
History of the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse
The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse is located in Esopus, NY 12429 in Ulster County. The lighthouse, fondly nicknamed "The Maid of the Meadows", was completed in 1871. It replaced an earlier structure built in 1839 on land ceded to the United States Government from the state of New York. The lighthouse was needed on the Hudson River to warn mariners of the mud flats known as the Esopus Meadows located off the western shore of the river.

The lighthouse was built on a new foundation, located to the south of the former location, traces of which are still visible on the adjoining small island. Two hundred and fifty piles, each 40 feet long, were driven into the river bottom. They were cut off three feet below the mean water mark, capped with 12 inch square timers and topped with a deck of three-inch pine. Granite blocks were stacked 16 feet high producing a pier with a diameter 49 feet at the base and 46 feet at the top. On top of this pier was built a wooden keeper's dwelling with a mansard roof and clapboard exterior. Inside the house is a kitchen, sitting room and equipment room on the first floor and three bedrooms and a bath on the second.

The light tower extends above the living quarters with an octagonal deck housing the light. Situated 53 feet above the mean water line, the lantern room previously contained an optic fifth-order Fresnel lens providing a 270 degree arc of light that was visible for 12 nautical miles.

The lighthouse was tended by resident keeper until 1965 when it was converted to an automatic solar powered system. Although only accessible by boat, without the care of on-site keepers, the lighthouse fell into the ruinous hands of vandals and Mother Nature.

In 1979, the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The road to restoration didn’t really begin until 1990 when the Save Esopus Lighthouse Commission was formed. The concerned volunteers, under the direction of Arline Fitzpatrick, leased the site from the Coast Guard and began extensive restoration efforts. SELC raised funds from various sources to cover emergency repairs, extensive carpentry, painting and shingling of the mansard roof.

By 1997, a reorganization of SELC, as well as new volunteers from the Aids to Navigation Coast Guard Station in Saugerties, continued to bring the lighthouse back to life.

The fall of 2000 brought an impressive milestone in restoration efforts – stabilization and leveling of the house was completed.

July 2001 brought another milestone for the lighthouse. The restoration was reorganized as a museum under the New York State Regents providing a provisional charter as the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse which allows the pursuit of additional funding and ownership of the house.

In September 2002, the lighthouse stewardship was formally granted by the General Services Administration to the newly-chartered Esopus Meadows Lighthouse.

Perhaps the most rewarding achievement to date happened on May 31, 2003. After 38 years of darkness, a new light was installed in the tower, thereby deeming the house “a working navigational aid.”

Press blue button for photos, history, restoration photos, and more about the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse.

Things To Do at The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse
Historic Site
Museum
Tour the Lighthouse


Also in Category
Activities | Things To Do
Attractions | Places To Go
Children | Kids - Activities | Things To Do
Children | Kids - Attractions | Places To Go
Educational Programs for Kids
Lighthouses
Town History

 Lighthouseslighthouses, lighthouse, lighthouse keeper, fresnel lens, warn boats, guide ships, augustin fesnel, hudson river, stony point lighthouse, coast guard, light tower, history, photos, historic lighthouse, first lighthouse in america, early lighthouses, activities | attractions | restaurants, attraction tour tourist visit

 12429, History of the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse, Esopus, NY, lighthouse, light tower, National Register of Historic Places, museum, photos, history, restoration photos, Things To Do at The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse, Historic Site, Tour the Lighthouse Esopus Meadows Lighthouse

845-331-1478 
History of the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse
The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse is located in Esopus, NY 12429 in Ulster County. The lighthouse, fondly nicknamed "The Maid of the Meadows", was completed in 1871. It replaced an earlier structure built in 1839 on land ceded to the United States Government from the state of New York. The lighthouse was needed on the Hudson River to warn mariners of the mud flats known as the Esopus Meadows located off the western shore of the river.

The lighthouse was built on a new foundation, located to the south of the former location, traces of which are still visible on the adjoining small island. Two hundred and fifty piles, each 40 feet long, were driven into the river bottom. They were cut off three feet below the mean water mark, capped with 12 inch square timers and topped with a deck of three-inch pine. Granite blocks were stacked 16 feet high producing a pier with a diameter 49 feet at the base and 46 feet at the top. On top of this pier was built a wooden keeper's dwelling with a mansard roof and clapboard exterior. Inside the house is a kitchen, sitting room and equipment room on the first floor and three bedrooms and a bath on the second.

The light tower extends above the living quarters with an octagonal deck housing the light. Situated 53 feet above the mean water line, the lantern room previously contained an optic fifth-order Fresnel lens providing a 270 degree arc of light that was visible for 12 nautical miles.

The lighthouse was tended by resident keeper until 1965 when it was converted to an automatic solar powered system. Although only accessible by boat, without the care of on-site keepers, the lighthouse fell into the ruinous hands of vandals and Mother Nature.

In 1979, the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The road to restoration didn’t really begin until 1990 when the Save Esopus Lighthouse Commission was formed. The concerned volunteers, under the direction of Arline Fitzpatrick, leased the site from the Coast Guard and began extensive restoration efforts. SELC raised funds from various sources to cover emergency repairs, extensive carpentry, painting and shingling of the mansard roof.

By 1997, a reorganization of SELC, as well as new volunteers from the Aids to Navigation Coast Guard Station in Saugerties, continued to bring the lighthouse back to life.

The fall of 2000 brought an impressive milestone in restoration efforts – stabilization and leveling of the house was completed.

July 2001 brought another milestone for the lighthouse. The restoration was reorganized as a museum under the New York State Regents providing a provisional charter as the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse which allows the pursuit of additional funding and ownership of the house.

In September 2002, the lighthouse stewardship was formally granted by the General Services Administration to the newly-chartered Esopus Meadows Lighthouse.

Perhaps the most rewarding achievement to date happened on May 31, 2003. After 38 years of darkness, a new light was installed in the tower, thereby deeming the house “a working navigational aid.”

Press blue button for photos, history, restoration photos, and more about the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse.

Things To Do at The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse
Historic Site
Museum
Tour the Lighthouse


Also in Category
Activities | Things To Do
Attractions | Places To Go
Children | Kids - Activities | Things To Do
Children | Kids - Attractions | Places To Go
Educational Programs for Kids
Historic Sites | History
Town History

 Parks | Local and Statepark biking hiking trails picnic boating swimming walking playground children kids point points interest parks things the hudson valley cross country skiing exercise outdoor fun footpaths mountain paved greenway playing bike riding birding studying nature softball baseball

 Things To Do, Birding, watching bald eagles, Nature Study, Hiking Trails, Esopus Lighthouse, restaurants in New Paltz, south of Kingston, northeastern Ulster County, New York State, woodland trails,  striped bass, Hudson River views Esopus Meadows Preserve "Scenic Hudson Valley"

 
Esopus Meadows Preserve
Town of Esopus, Ulster County
Hudson River Valley, New York State

The Esopus Meadows Preserve is located in the Town of Esopus, along the Hudson River, south of Kingston, in northeastern Ulster County, New York State. This 93-acre preserve is owned and managed by Scenic Hudson.

Esopus Meadows Preserve offers two miles of woodland trails and a shoreline with stunning Hudson River views. The shallow waters just offshore of the park are among the Hudson’s most important spawning grounds for striped bass. This impressive 2-mile trail network runs along the Hudson River and through woodlands, alongside wetlands, and above the Klyne Esopus Kill.

Things To Do at Esopus Meadows Preserve
Birding at this prime spot for watching bald eagles
Hiking Trails
Nature Study along 3,500 feet of shoreline
View of the 1871 Esopus Lighthouse in the Hudson River.

Directions
Crossing the Mid-Hudson Bridge from east to west, take Route 9W north for 10.3 miles. Right on River Road. Proceed 1.3 miles. Entrance on right.

Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, and the Esopus Meadows Preserve.

After a day of birding, hiking, nature study, or relaxing in the fresh sea breezes, pack a picnic from the healthy produce at one of the local farms in the area. Or select one of many excellent restaurants in New Paltz or greater Ulster County.


Also in Category
Activities | Things To Do
Attractions | Places To Go
Audubon | Birding | Bird Watching
Children | Kids - Activities | Things To Do
Children | Kids - Attractions | Places To Go
Gardens, Nature Centers & Nature Trails
Hiking Trails | Walking Trails
Scenic Hudson Valley

 Scenic Hudson Valleyscenic views in westchester, visit westchester, river towns, views of the hudson river, westchesters river towns, hiking trails in westchester, biking paths in westchester, scenic drives, westchester hiking trails, vistas of the hudson valley, scenic locations & drives,

 Things To Do, Birding, watching bald eagles, Nature Study, Hiking Trails, Esopus Lighthouse, restaurants in New Paltz, south of Kingston, northeastern Ulster County, New York State, woodland trails,  striped bass, Hudson River views Esopus Meadows Preserve "Scenic Hudson Valley"

 
Esopus Meadows Preserve
Town of Esopus, Ulster County
Hudson River Valley, New York State

The Esopus Meadows Preserve is located in the Town of Esopus, along the Hudson River, south of Kingston, in northeastern Ulster County, New York State. This 93-acre preserve is owned and managed by Scenic Hudson.

Esopus Meadows Preserve offers two miles of woodland trails and a shoreline with stunning Hudson River views. The shallow waters just offshore of the park are among the Hudson’s most important spawning grounds for striped bass. This impressive 2-mile trail network runs along the Hudson River and through woodlands, alongside wetlands, and above the Klyne Esopus Kill.

Things To Do at Esopus Meadows Preserve
Birding at this prime spot for watching bald eagles
Hiking Trails
Nature Study along 3,500 feet of shoreline
View of the 1871 Esopus Lighthouse in the Hudson River.

Directions
Crossing the Mid-Hudson Bridge from east to west, take Route 9W north for 10.3 miles. Right on River Road. Proceed 1.3 miles. Entrance on right.

Press blue button for Scenic Hudson, hours of operation, maps, and the Esopus Meadows Preserve.

After a day of birding, hiking, nature study, or relaxing in the fresh sea breezes, pack a picnic from the healthy produce at one of the local farms in the area. Or select one of many excellent restaurants in New Paltz or greater Ulster County.


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History of the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse
The Esopus Meadows Lighthouse is located in Esopus, NY 12429 in Ulster County. The lighthouse, fondly nicknamed "The Maid of the Meadows", was completed in 1871. It replaced an earlier structure built in 1839 on land ceded to the United States Government from the state of New York. The lighthouse was needed on the Hudson River to warn mariners of the mud flats known as the Esopus Meadows located off the western shore of the river.

The lighthouse was built on a new foundation, located to the south of the former location, traces of which are still visible on the adjoining small island. Two hundred and fifty piles, each 40 feet long, were driven into the river bottom. They were cut off three feet below the mean water mark, capped with 12 inch square timers and topped with a deck of three-inch pine. Granite blocks were stacked 16 feet high producing a pier with a diameter 49 feet at the base and 46 feet at the top. On top of this pier was built a wooden keeper's dwelling with a mansard roof and clapboard exterior. Inside the house is a kitchen, sitting room and equipment room on the first floor and three bedrooms and a bath on the second.

The light tower extends above the living quarters with an octagonal deck housing the light. Situated 53 feet above the mean water line, the lantern room previously contained an optic fifth-order Fresnel lens providing a 270 degree arc of light that was visible for 12 nautical miles.

The lighthouse was tended by resident keeper until 1965 when it was converted to an automatic solar powered system. Although only accessible by boat, without the care of on-site keepers, the lighthouse fell into the ruinous hands of vandals and Mother Nature.

In 1979, the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The road to restoration didn’t really begin until 1990 when the Save Esopus Lighthouse Commission was formed. The concerned volunteers, under the direction of Arline Fitzpatrick, leased the site from the Coast Guard and began extensive restoration efforts. SELC raised funds from various sources to cover emergency repairs, extensive carpentry, painting and shingling of the mansard roof.

By 1997, a reorganization of SELC, as well as new volunteers from the Aids to Navigation Coast Guard Station in Saugerties, continued to bring the lighthouse back to life.

The fall of 2000 brought an impressive milestone in restoration efforts – stabilization and leveling of the house was completed.

July 2001 brought another milestone for the lighthouse. The restoration was reorganized as a museum under the New York State Regents providing a provisional charter as the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse which allows the pursuit of additional funding and ownership of the house.

In September 2002, the lighthouse stewardship was formally granted by the General Services Administration to the newly-chartered Esopus Meadows Lighthouse.

Perhaps the most rewarding achievement to date happened on May 31, 2003. After 38 years of darkness, a new light was installed in the tower, thereby deeming the house “a working navigational aid.”

Press blue button for photos, history, restoration photos, and more about the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse.

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