This image is the cover for the book Hidden History of Columbia County, New York, Hidden History

Hidden History of Columbia County, New York, Hidden History

Bordered by the Hudson River and the Berkshire Mountains, Columbia County is part of the famously picturesque Hudson Valley region. But look beyond the rolling hills to discover the secrets of Columbia County. A mastodon tooth rolled down a farmer's hill in Claverack, changing the world's understanding of prehistoric times. President Martin Van Buren lost his wife, Hannah, in Kinderhook and hardly mentioned her again. Hudson's gallows were the scene of New York's last hanging, as hundreds of ticketholders looked on. Outcasts called "Pondshiners" hid in the hills of Taghkanic, and the only sign of their existence are the fantastic baskets they made. Join local author Allison Guertin Marchese as she explores these little-known stories of people and places, deeply woven into the history of Columbia County, New York.

Allison Guertin Marchese

Allison Guertin Marchese works as a fundraiser and grant writer for various non-profits in her area. She is also a freelance writer and has published articles in local newspapers such as the Chatham Press, the Chatham Times and the Women's Courier on historical subjects ranging from local Shaker communities to ghosts. She has worked as a researcher and publicist for the Shaker Museum.

The History Press