Beacon’s Historical Society Mounts New Exhibit

BEACON – The public is encouraged to attend the debut of the Beacon Historical Society’s newest exhibit on Saturday, March 29, at 1:00 p.m. at its headquarters, 61 Leonard Street. “From Haverstraw to Beacon: Inside the Brickyards that Built New York City” focuses on the rich history of the numerous brickyards that once lined the Hudson River. The exhibition, which is presented through a partnership with the Haverstraw Brick Museum, will remain on display through July 19 and will be open to the public free of charge (with plenty of parking) on Thursdays 10-noon and Saturdays 1-3 p.m.

“While many recognize names such as the Dennings Point or Brockway yards, in 1900 there were 38 brickyards lining the six-mile span between Chelsea and Dutchess Junction. Over the course of decades, the Budd, Aldridge, Van Buren, Hammond and all these other yards used the river’s rich clay to produce millions of bricks,” said Diane Lapis, the Society’s Director of Special Projects.

For one example, brickmaking started at Denning’s Point in 1881, but its heyday was in the late 1920s, when 145 men were employed, and 300,000 bricks were produced daily. The 1925-1926 modernization of the Denning’s plant introduced an electric train and shovel that made the yard one of the most productive along the Hudson River. In 1926, 60 million bricks were produced, and because of the ever-burgeoning demand of the New York City market for brick, the 1927 forecast was for 100 million bricks.

The exhibition was curated by Rachel Whitlow, Executive Director of the Haverstraw Brick Museum.

The all-volunteer Beacon Historical Society was founded in 1976 to collect and promote the history of Beacon. With approximately 400 members, it is one of the largest in the Hudson River Valley. For the latest news on events and programs, visit the society online at www.BeaconHistorical.org and follow on social media. It’s easy to join online using PayPal; simply click on the support tab. Members receive a monthly newsletter, invitations to programs/special events and the satisfaction of helping to preserve and promote Beacon’s history.