Right before us stands the magnificent Vanderhoof House. It is not just a building but a portal into the past. This Federal architecture exemplifies grace and history.
The Vanderhoof House was built around 1819-1820. It was home to James Vanderpoel a prominent lawyer and judge. He sought a home that reflected his success. The house embodies the fashion of the time. It shows symmetrical forms and subtle ornamentation. These were inspired by Greek and Roman motifs.
Notice the Dutch stoop at the front and rear entrances. They hint at Kinderhook’s Dutch heritage. Also they hint at Vanderpoel’s heritage.
James Vanderpoel was born in Chatham New York in 1787. He studied law and opened a law office in Kinderhook. He became a respected civic leader. In 1808 he married Anna Doll. Together they had six children. Vanderpoel was elected to the New York State Assembly in 1810. Later he succeeded Martin Van Buren. He became Columbia County surrogate.
Martin Van Buren was a friend of Vanderpoel. He visited the house. Van Buren’s son John married Elizabeth Vanderpoel. She was James and Anna Vanderpoel’s eldest child.
In 1833 Vanderpoel became Columbia County Judge. He moved his family to Albany. He sold the house to Ashley Scovel. Then Scovel sold it to Major Mordecai Myers in 1834. Myers was a figure in the War of 1812. He lived there with his wife and ten children until 1842.
After Myers the house was purchased by Thomas M Burt and his wife Lydia Burt. They lived there with their family until 1873. The house had many owners. It even operated as a boarding house for a time.
In 1925 the Daughters of Columbia County Historical Society purchased the Vanderhoof House. They sought a historic house for their meetings and collections. They restored it and opened it to the public in 1932 as the House of History.
Preservation has been a priority for the Columbia County Historical Society. They have undertaken restoration projects. These projects protect the house and reverse obsolete methods. The goal is to return it to its Federal splendor.
Today the Vanderpoel House serves as an exhibit space. It features galleries of paintings and decorative arts. These are from the Columbia County Historical Society’s collection. The CCHS Museum Store & Bookshop is located within the house.
Inside you might see exhibits. There might be vintage photographs of Columbia County. There might be portraits from the permanent collection. These portraits span three centuries. They include works by self-taught and important artists.
The Vanderpoel House stands as a testament to history architecture and community. It is open to visitors. You can explore its rooms. You can admire its details. You can connect with the past. It is open Friday through Sunday from 11am to 4pm. Admission is $5 for adults. It is free for students children active military and CCHS members.
Take a moment to appreciate the Vanderhoof House. It is a treasure in Kinderhook. It connects us to the people and events. They shaped this region. It is more than a house. It is a House of History.