van wyck homestead museum

The Van Wyck Homestead Museum is just a part of the larger historical Fishkill Supply Depot, an important installation during the Revolutionary War, operating for seven years. The homestead became the Officers' Headquarters. It includes the largest Revolutionary War soldiers' cemetery in the nation, yet gets very little attention or protection from the federal government. Volunteers are diligently working to rectify this situation. We were lucky enough to attend the Revolutionary War Weekend which allowed us to step back into the 18th century and witness demonstrations including blacksmithing, gun-smithing, woodworking, candlemaking, outdoor cooking, a regimental encampment, and much more. We also paid respects at the soldiers' cemetery, complete with gun salutes. This is an annual event, but the Homestead is open year-round and provides an interesting look at the importance it has played in the early history of Dutchess County and of our country. The volunteers have done an amazing job. There was no fee although donations were gratefully accepted.

The women who gave the tour of the house were informative, interesting and ready to answer any questions. It isn't always open, we lucked up on a Girl Scout troup that gad an event there that day.

very interesting.Small house but the tour was very informative. The women who were the guides were very friendly and enthusiastic

Small site but worth the visit. Staff were great and seemed to be passionate about this piece of history in the Revolutionary War.

The site is small but the building is well-kept and interesting to view from especially a historical perspective.

Very educational. There is an unmarked revolutionary war cemetary just up the road which this historical society is trying to revitalize and research the hundreds of soldiers who are buried there in unmarked graves. They have annual reenactments with food and costumed actors that share the history and significance of this pivotle encampment. A must see and have a meal at cafe maya which is right next to the cemetery, the best authentic Mexican food ever.

I happened upon Van Wyck while visiting Mandeville House (Garrison, NY) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandeville_House and attempting to stop by Madame Brett Homestead (Beacon, NY). The Van Wyck Homestead Museum is an attractive well kept 18th Century American Colonial that has its significance arising from its architecture and role during the American Revolution. Many famous folks from the American Revolution (Washington, Lafayette, John Jay etc) had visited this home. All in all, I had the extreme pleasure of meeting three of the local docents (Sue was my tour guide) who were extremely knowledge about the homestead as well as local history in the Fishkill/Beacon/Garrison area. The role and importance of this house cannot be understated and it should be visited whenever possible. They are open on weekends from June through late September from 1 to 4 pm and appointments as well. Other than the homestead Museum, there is a picnic area as well as a little garden area that is maintained.Docents are very knowledgeable, the museum has lots of authentic artifacts and a very well stocked museum gift shoppe as well. Please consider leaving a donation or becoming a member as this site is free to access (public donations) and only exists due to the efforts of the Fishkill Historical Society.

I like the local history, so visiting here is part of the area historical ties to the American revolution. You have to be into it more than the "big" places, the West Points, and Saratoga. But if you are a local, or deep on the subject this reveolutionary war homestead, which was part of a major military encampment is worth the brief visit.

Lots of history in this small, well preserved colonial house. Wonderfull staff members on site. A must see if you are visiting the area.

I go every year for the craft fair. The people are friendly. If you're in the area it's worth a quick visit for the historical information.

I love history, and so do the caretakers of the Van Wyck Homestead Museum. I did not know about this museum until I happened to drive by it. This building is full of really fascinating history and was saved from demolition by some very dedicated people. It is pretty unbelievable to me that this was even at risk of being demolished. It would have been a sin. Most of the heavy hitters of our revolutionary history spent time at the Van Wyck Homestead. If you are in Fishkill and in the mood to learn, definitely pay this place a visit.

What a fun historical find. I recommend going over the Thanksgiving Saturday/Sunday weekend. They have an adorable craft show throughout the house...what a fun way to tour. Get a few Christmas gifts and enjoy an apple turnover freshly made. So fun!

Who would have known all of the important history that happened right there in that house that is situated on a small island of land between 84 and Rt. 9D ? Not me, and I grew up not far from there ! Lots of local history in a well preserved, spacious. antique of a house. Picnic tables outside also to eat lunch and watch all the traffic.

Went on a Sunday afternoon and was shown around by the two wonderful staff members on site. Anyone intersted in Rev.War times this is a must see. Well preserved and saved from destruction due to a fine hisorical society.

Staffed by dedicated volunteers, this place brings the past to life. If you drive by -- definitely stop in!