I called Jennifer Fivelsdal yesterday to Ring & Sing in the Rain. Although I have followed her for some time, we had never spoken before.After some phone tag, we were finally able to connect last night.
Jennifer is as lovely as the photos she posts. I was originally intrigued by the photos Jennifer posted from Red Hook, New York. I remembered Red Hook from Brooklyn. What I didn't know and learned last night is that there is another Red Hook, New York. This Red Hook is in the Hudson Valley, part of Dutchess County in upstate New York.
Jennifer told me of the rich history of Rhinebeck and the surrounding towns. Dutchess County was settled in 1683 and named for the Dutchess of York. Some noted names who lived or stayed in the area were Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt, George Washington, the Vanderbilts and the Livingston family, which dates back to the American Revolution.
Many of these families had grand estates overlooking the Hudson River. Jennifer told me of the beauty of trees that were planted long ago and are still there and the fabulous views of both the Hudson River and the Catskills. The Catskills, which I am familiar with, were home to many grand hotels in the 1950s and 1960s. Many entertainers and comedians got their start in these hotels.
I learned Red Hook is also home to Bard College, which Jennifer told me recruits from around the world. I was fascinated listening to the history of this area of New York, and we spoke for quite some time.
Jennifer told me she often gets calls from people about her photos.She will often post a photo that will trigger memories for some people of where they grew up or spent their summers. She is kind and always helpful to people who inquire. She told me rentals are sky high in her area, just as they are where I am, and mortgages are less.
We had a lovely conversation. It was like talking to an old friend who I am looking forward to not only talking to but, hopefully, meeting in person one day.
If you haven't met Jennifer, stop by her blog and say hello.
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