Rosendale Tourist Info

Rosendale Tourist Info. . Any trip to Rosendale begins with its geology and extends to the independent spirit of its inhabitants. The heart of this warm, festive town pulses with energy and hospitality. Rosendale has seen many changes since its enormous deposits of naturally perfect limestone, the base ingredient of hydraulic cement, were discovered in 1825., At the height of cement production, this boomtown hosted over 250 mines, bars, brothels and a dozen plants that employed more than 5,000 workers. Throughout the 19th century, Rosendale Cement was the most widely used cement in the United States. Rosendale's abundance of limestone facilitated the construction of the D&H Canal system and the transportation of coal from the interiors of Pennsylvania to coastal ports. Rosendale cement was used to build the Brooklyn Bridge, the Croton Reservoir system, the foundation of the US Treasury Building, the wings of the US Capitol, the Washington Monument, the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty, Grand Central Terminal, and even the New York State Thruway., The beautiful Victorian buildings that line Rosendale's streets reflect a rich blend of art, commerce and industry. The former hotels, pharmacies, lumber yards and brothels now host a number of distinctive restaurants, offices, galleries and shops, The best example of this integration is in the Woman's Studio Workshop which is housed inthe former Rosendale Cement Company Store and Post Office, where a "new" industry has replaced the old. On long wooden counters that once displayed sacks of flour and kegs of nails for sale to the miners, professional artists and students now assemble collages, manufacture handmade paper or print books in WSW classes. The abandoned mines have been reinvented for a variety of uses: document storage, mushroom growing, trout farming, and as an attractive live music venue., Today, the cement kilns still dot the hillsides leading down to the Rondout Creek. These elements create a beautiful post-industrial landscape which attracts artists, writers, performers, nature lovers, historians, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. A perfect destination for hiking and biking excursions, Rosendale has two rail trails and is just minutes away from the Mohonk Preserve. The Rondout Creek is a beautiful spot for kayaking and fishing. Spend an evening enjoying live music and great food at one of our distinctive restaurants and experience our charming selection of bed and breakfasts. There is always something happening in Rosendale, be it a funky local festival, a spontaneous concert, or a tour of our emerging art scene. Whatever your particular interest, Rosendale is a place that must be experienced!