Community
The historic Village of Rhinebeck combines the charm and beauty of a small town with modern shopping, dining and entertainment, all within walking distance of the property. Commuting is also extremely convenient, as the train station is within walking distance, providing quick and easy access to New York City and beyond. School bus stops are conveniently located to transport children to nearby schools.
With 437 sites listed on the National Historic Register, Rhinebeck comprises one of the largest historic districts in the United States. Rhinebeck boasts eight miles of an area known as The Sixteen Mile Historic District composed of thirty contiguous riverfront estates associated with the landed aristocracy in the Hudson Valley during the eighteenth, nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
Rhinebeck was founded in 1686 as a result of a significant land transaction of 2,200 acres between four Dutchmen and six Indians of the Esopus (Kingston) and Sepasco (Rhinebeck) tribes. The Dutch settlers, Gerrit Artsen, Arie Roosa, Jan Elting and Henrick Kip, still have relatives residing in the area today. The Dutch settlers called their community Kipsbergen and it was not until 1713 that the name "Ryn Beck" appeared as a result of the area's Judge Henry Beekman's reference to his accumulating landholdings.
The Beekman Arms, built by Arent Traphagen, is a charming country inn and restaurant that has been welcoming travelers since it opened in 1766 and is now considered the oldest inn in America. "The Arms" retains a great deal of its eighteenth and nineteenth century character inside, where some original structural features can still be seen. Rhinebeck also has many cozy inns and bed and breakfasts to suit the taste and needs of all those visiting, making Rhinebeck the ideal base for touring the historic and picturesque Hudson River Valley.
Rhinebeck has exciting year-round events and recreational opportunities. The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome is famous worldwide for its daredevil sky show and vintage World War I planes and museum. One can even take a ride in a biplane! The Dutchess County Fairgrounds host the county Fair, craft and antique shows and many other events from spring through the fall season. The Center for Performing Arts, which includes the Rhinebeck Theatre Society, plus the Bard College Music Festival offer a wide variety of intellectual stimulation and entertainment through the seasons.
