RocklandCast.com

If anyone is interested in history, especially American History from the beginning, you will find Rockland County, NY is a must stop and see destination. Rich in history and progressive as any New York City suburb can be. Rockland provides loads of culture, convenience to New York City, fine shops and restaurants- in addition to its rich history intertwined with that of America. Nyack offers a unique blend of Old and New.
A great resource on Rockland County history is the “Rockland County Red Book” Sponsored by the Rockland Light and Power Company and Published in 1926 by Noel Press, Valley Cottage, NY. My well preserved first pressing of this gem of a book is safely tucked away in a safe deposit box, however a new coffee take size edition is now available. Rockland County history can be traced back to the days of Verrazano who described the region in great detail way back in 1524 but it was not until September 15, 1609 that the first written account of a white man- Henry Hudson, dropped anchor in Tappan Bay.

Before this day, the region was part of the great Algonquin Nation which included the Mohegan and other closely related tribes. It was not until 1639 that French Huguenot David Petersen de Vriesa arrived and settled in the lower Rockland County region.

Rockland County was at the crossroads of the American Revolution. Events such as the The Trial of John Andre who conspired with Benedict Arnold- occurred in Tappan, NY. Historians debate if Andre even knew he was carrying the Top Secret plans to West Point- the most critical military location on the Hudson, if not the entire war. Because he was caught out of military clothing, he was convicted as a spy and hung at top of a nearby hill. Onlookers took note of Andre, his pride and attitude to accept his hanging “like a man” and it won him some respect. Today Andre’s body is buried amongst Britains greatest citizens and royalty at Westminster Abbey- as a war hero. Benedict Arnold was viewed as a traitor forever.

The trial was held at the nearby Tappan Reformed Church- the first Dutch church in the county dating back to 1694. Andre was jailed in what is today The Ole 76 House Restaurant. George Washington resided over the trial held at the church and stayed at what is now called the DeWint House, which is still managed and maintained by the Masons. The Stony Point Battlefield, West Point, Washington, Benedict Arnold, Tappan creates a historical backdrop against a vibrant and growing community.

Being a mere 25 minutes from New York City, it’s a great to visit or live. You get the Great Outdoors, History, A slower Way of Life- but not that slow and loads of antiques, NYC Culture, Arts, Fine Shopping and Restaurants- in addition to its rich history intertwined with that of America.
Rivers, Streams, 32,000 acres of unspoiled parkland, Bike Trails make the region a great place for those looking to remain active. There are Golf courses, some recognized as top in the nation, can also be found in Rockland County. See you soon.