Visitors to Newburgh’s Historic District are awestruck by its rich architecture and its sweeping views of the Hudson River. For the past four decades, supporters from all over have joined the Newburgh Historical Society in celebrating a treasured architectural history during the annual Candlelight Tour. This year’s tour is especially noteworthy as the Society aims to resume the tradition after two years of interruptions through the pandemic.
The self-guided tour will take place this year on Sunday, December 11, between 12 and 5 p.m. The 1830 Captain David Crawford House, the Society’s headquarters located at 189 Montgomery Street, is the starting place for the Tour.
The house tour features a diverse assortment of public and private spaces within and just beyond the City of Newburgh. These include city and suburban houses, homes in the rehabilitation process, and some of Newburgh’s most important landmarks. The Crawford House will be decorated with natural greens, floral arrangements, and fruit decorations typical of the 19th century. Neighbors will open their fascinating houses, showcasing their historic significance or their modern take on holiday expression.
Samantha Wiley, President of the Historical Society, said: “We are thrilled to welcome guests from near and far back to enjoy Newburgh’s Candlelight Tour, highlighting some of the tremendous history and architecture Newburgh has to offer.”
This annual tour is the Historical Society’s major fundraiser. The money raised is used to fulfill the Historical Society’s mission to preserve the history of the greater Newburgh area by promoting an appreciation of the region’s unique attributes and protecting its architectural, cultural, and historic resources.
Tickets can be purchased online at newburghhistoricalsociety.com or by calling (845) 561-2585. Visitors will save $5 off the $35 ticket price at the door by purchasing tickets in advance. An illustrated guide booklet and a custom map will be provided to add historical context and enrich the visitor experience.
The Crawford House, a historic house museum and Society’s headquarters, located at 189 Montgomery Street within the City of Newburgh’s Historic District is open for tours by appointment. For more information about admission, tours, or programming please call (845) 561-2585.