SCHEDULE FOR FALL 2024

Northern Westchester’s “Kit” Homes

In the early 20th century, kit homes were an affordable answer to a growing country’s housing needs. A “house” would be ordered through the mail, and would arrive by train car with all the materials and instructions. You could build it yourself or hire a contractor. Financing was available which made home ownership accessible to families hoping to achieve the American Dream. We are fortunate to have many of these homes in our area. Emily Bicht, a local artist with a passion for these homes, will discuss the history of kit homes and show images of existing kits homes in Croton and Ossining. On view during the presentation will be an exhibition of her paintings these homes inspired.

Thursday, November 14 at 7:00 p.m. at the Croton Free Library, 171 Cleveland Drive, Croton-on-Hudson, NY. This event is free.

The exhibition will run from November 3 to December 30, 2024. There will be an opening reception on Saturday, November 16 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Takings: A History of Land Disputes Along the Old Croton Aqueduct

When the first Croton Aqueduct was built, it disrupted many long-standing working farms and estates throughout Westchester, the Bronx, and Manhattan through eminent domain. Although local landowners were powerless to stop the project, they did win several concessions, including tunnels, ramps, route diversions, and even the glorious Highbridge.

In this special lecture, historian Keith Doherty will document how the OCA affected the local landscape and how property owners, in turn, shaped the OCA we know today.

This program was organized by the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, sponsored by the Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct & Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area, and presented in conjunction with the Croton Free Library and Croton Friends of History.

Space is limited and registration is required! Sign up here.

Thursday, November 21, 7:00 p.m. at the Croton Free Library, 171 Cleveland Drive, Croton-on-Hudson, NY. This event is free.