putnam history museum

Very limited hours -- have to really build in a plan to get hereHighlights1. very informative 12 minute video about the foundry2. some great artifacts including weapons and domestic items made in the foundry3. large artworks showing life in/around the foundry

Took a ride to Cold Spring for the express purpose of visiting the Museum. I had even checked the web site to make sure it was open, and according to the internet, it was. We got there, and there was a sign on the door that said it was open, and then a little sticky note stuck to that, saying it wasn't open. In addition, you must park on the street, which isn't too clear, and a lot of the street has NO PARKING signs along it. Something marked about the parking would be helpful.Hope to get back there one day when they are open.

This small yet interesting litttle museum & Historical Society is worth the visit. Great local charater and charm.

For those who tour the world, or even just New York City, this is a very small, seemingly insignificant museum. But Putnam County is an area full of interesting history from the Revolutionary War onward. Every year this museum features some aspects of this history with excellent exhibits. It also features occasional lectures or presentations. The little bookstore has local history publications. A visit here should be coupled with a walking tour around Cold Spring, and a stop down the hill at the West Point Foundry (which played a pivotal role in the Civil War.) It is only open limited hours and not all year so its best to call before stopping in. For those coming from the train, walk all the way up Main Street to the light, turn right, and walk about two blocks. Its on Chestnut Street which is a side street off of route 9D, by the senior housing, just after the commercial strip. If you are driving, there is parking on the street. The musuem is on one level so its very accessible.