Rondout–West Strand Historic District

The Rondout-West Strand Historic District is a waterfront area with over 270 residential, commercial, and public buildings from the 1800s spread across 57 acres along a creek. The district keeps its original bluestone sidewalks and stone walls, showing the street pattern from that era.

The district took shape after a major canal opened in 1828, turning a small trading spot into a significant port on a major river. Coal, gravel, and other goods moved through its docks for decades, driving growth throughout the 1800s.

The streets display different architectural styles such as Federal, Greek Revival, and Victorian, each reflecting when the buildings were constructed and what people valued at the time. Walking through the district, you notice how wealthier merchants chose more ornate designs while simpler structures served working families and businesses.

The area is easy to explore on foot since the original street layout is kept and buildings sit close together. The ground is flat, making it comfortable for a leisurely walk where you can see the different building styles.

The name comes from Dutch and refers to an old fort built for fur trading with Native Americans in the area. This Dutch connection still shapes the history and older place names throughout the region.