Kinderhook, Administrative town in Columbia County, New York
Kinderhook is a town in Columbia County comprising two villages, Kinderhook and Valatie, plus the hamlet of Niverville near Kinderhook Lake. The area includes various residential zones and agricultural lands that are carefully planned and maintained.
The town was established in 1788 by settlers who named it for a location where Native American children gathered near a river bend. This early naming reflected the Dutch influence on the region.
Martin Van Buren, the eighth US President, was born here and his home Lindenwald is now a National Historic Site. Visitors can see how this important American political figure lived.
The main entrances to both villages are well marked along major roads. Most visitors find it easiest to explore the area by car with parking available throughout.
The 1737 Luykas Van Alen House inspired writer Washington Irving when creating The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. This home showcases the Dutch building style that Irving incorporated into his famous story.
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