view no. 22: the state historic site of Olana

Watercolor on Linen / 14“ X 20” / White Matt, Black Frame 22” X 27”

On Hudson’s fifth day the river became shallow, he travelled only 4.8 m. They passed the entrance to Catskill Creek, where Mohican territory started and a Native American village called Potick existed. This was the site of the future industrial center of Catskill. In this location Hudson encountered the first Mohican Indians who at first thought that the Half Moon was a great fish.

The Rip Van Winkle Bridge, named after a short story by Washington Irving was built here in 1935 where an old Indian trading trail once crossed. Near the bridge is the home of Thomas Cole, who is considered the founder of the Hudson River School of Landscape Painting, the first truly American style of painting. Cole’s most famous student, Frederic Church, built his own house (Olana) across the river. It is now a State and National Historic Landmark and one of the most popular attractions in the state.