Robert R. Livingston, Jr. was Clermont's most notable resident. His accomplishments include: drafting the Declaration of Independence, serving as first U.S. Minister of Foreign Affairs, administering the oath of office to George Washington, negotiating the Louisiana Purchase, and developing steamboat technology with Robert Fulton. Today, Clermont appears much as it did in the early 20th century . . . Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1973, Clermont is an anchor in the 1990 Hudson River National Landmark District.

American Revolution / War of Independence
Because of the Livingston family's prominent role in support of independence, Clermont was burned by British troops under the command of General John Vaughan during a foray up the Hudson River in the autumn of 1777. Margaret Beekman Livingston, who managed the estate during most of the war years, rebuilt the family home between 1779 and 1782.

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Candlelight tours of museum and grounds
Child's Christmas (stories and treats)
Croquet Tournament
Farm, Food & Music Festival

Olana encompasses the house, the farm and the entire 250-acre estate. The picturesque landscape, with panoramic vistas of the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains, like the house, was designed by Church. Visitors throughout the year enjoy guided and self-guided tours of the Church-inspired landscape.

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Things To Do
Artists (Children can stop by the Wagon House for pencils and paper.)
Bird Watching
Gardens
Gift Shop
Guided Tours
Hiking Trails / Walking on the carriage roads
Historic Site
Maurice Sharp Gallery
Museum Store
Picnic Area
Scenic Views

"Van Buren was preeminent among the second generation of American politicians. As eighth President, the first born under the U.S. flag, he continued building the Democratic Party he helped organize. His administration faced daunting challenges: The nation suffered a severe and lingering economic depression. Crises with Great Britain, Spain, and the Republic of Texas taxed his diplomatic skills.

"Most troubling throughout his political career was the issue of extending slavery into new states. Van Buren opposed extension while still trying to cultivate a coalition of northern and southern interests. The issue divided the nation and his party and foreshadowed the whirlpool of frustration, anger and violence which was to consume the country in the 1860's."