LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 150th Anniversary of the
Huguenot Schoolhouse

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that the
quality and character of life in the communities across the great State
of New York is reflective of certain exemplary institutions whose
purpose is dedicated to serving the community and the needs of its citi-
zenry; and
WHEREAS, It is also custom of this Legislative Body that the quality
of life of the citizens of the State of New York is greatly enriched by
its exceptional cultural, educational and recreational institutions; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate
the 150th Anniversary of the Huguenot Schoolhouse; this momentous occa-
sion was celebrated with an Open House on Saturday, September 21, 2013,
and Sunday, September 22, 2013, in Huguenot, New York; and
WHEREAS, The Huguenot Schoolhouse, established in 1863, is one of the
few brick, one-room schoolhouses built in Orange County; local craftsman
made the bricks from clay found along the banks of the nearby Neversink
River; and
WHEREAS, In 1961 the school closed and the building was used as a
social hall by Huguenot Fire Company, and then stood vacant for ten
years; and
WHEREAS, Through the dedication and determination of a group of resi-
dents, restoration of the Huguenot Schoolhouse began in 1996; in 2001
the project was completed and the school re-opened as the Town of Deer-
park Museum; and
WHEREAS, The mission of the Town of Deerpark Museum is the acquisi-
tion, preservation, and restoration of artifacts for the purpose of
documenting and interpreting the history of the town through exhibi-
tions, educational programs and publications for children and adults;
and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that institutions
which are founded in educational purpose, and which help to preserve the
history and heritage of a people, merit the highest commendation; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Huguenot Schoolhouse; and be it
further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the Town of Deerpark Museum.