GARRISON – Hudson Valley landmark Boscobel is now shuttered following a catastrophe at the historic library in Garrison.
The plaster ceiling in the library collapsed without warning, causing major damage to the room, its contents, and adjacent rooms.
Jennifer Carlquist, executive director and curator was relieved that “no one was harmed or in the building at the time. Boscobel is working diligently alongside a team of engineers, art conservators, and local officials to assess the building and collection.”
Carlquist noted that while “house visitation is suspended for the foreseeable future, Boscobel’s gardens, grounds, and visitor center remain open during public hours.’ She said they anticipate no disruption to the weekly farmers’ market, outdoor programming, private events, or the annual Chamber Music Festival.
“We are making immediate pivots to offer alternative experiences to guests who have already booked house visits, expanding our guided tours of the grounds and gardens, sharing more collection objects in our visitor center.”
Carlquist said as Boscobel’s stewards, “we are devastated by this loss. However, we now have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to re-imagine one of the most beautiful rooms in America.”
She said Boscobel “has a glorious history of coming back from disaster, and we are drawing inspiration from the community commitment that saved Boscobel from total destruction in the 1950s. It is now up to us to write the next chapter in that story.”
Boscobel’s Development Director Martha Pearson said, “Boscobel’s ability to continue operations and plan for our future will rely on the continued support of our community. To help us with our initial recovery effort donations are being accepted. Other ways to help us during this critical period include joining Boscobel as a member, buying tickets to an upcoming program or visiting during public open hours.”
