The houses were constructed using local limestone and fieldstone, reflecting the transition from French to Dutch architectural influence.
The onsite Huguenot cemetery contains graves dating back to the late 17th century, serving as one of the oldest in the region.
The site features a reconstructed 1717 stone church that serves as a focal point for the historic district.
It is one of the only historical sites in the US that provides a comprehensive look at the interaction between European settlers and the indigenous Esopus Munsee people.
Several of the houses remained in the same families for over 200 years, aiding in the preservation of original interior elements.
The district holds a rare collection of decorative arts, including furniture and domestic tools used by the original inhabitants.
Archaeological digs at the site frequently uncover pottery fragments and metalwork from the early colonial period.
The street layout remains largely unchanged from the original 17th-century town plan.
Historic Huguenot Street is a National Historic Landmark District in New Paltz, New York, comprising seven preserved stone houses that date back to the early 18th century. The site commemorates the 1678 settlement of the area by French Huguenot refugees who fled religious persecution. It spans 10 acres and features a burial ground established in the same year as the settlement. The site functions as both a living history museum and an active archaeological research center. Collections include over 5,000 artifacts related to the Huguenot and Esopus Munsee people. The site preserves one of the most intact clusters of 18th-century stone dwellings in the United States. Guided tours explore the architectural evolution from traditional French styles to Dutch vernacular designs. It serves as a significant repository for colonial-era genealogy and regional history.
The wide-angle view from the street looking toward the row of stone houses with the DuBois Fort in the foreground.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the district involves traversing historic streetscapes and uneven terrain.
Book guided house tours in advance, as interior access is often restricted to scheduled group entries.
Dedicate time to walk through the burial ground for a quieter, self-guided experience.
Do not attempt to enter the houses without a guide, as they are fragile historic structures with climate-sensitive interiors.
The site operates on a seasonal schedule, often reducing house tours during the winter months.
Maintain a respectful demeanor in the burial ground and follow all posted guidelines regarding photography inside the historic stone houses.
