PERFECTLY LOCATED TO COMPLEMENT THE UNIQUE NEW PALTZ HISTORY AND
TO DRIVE LOCAL ECONOMY

Established in 1678

Although it is widely known that New Paltz is one of the oldest European settlements in the United States of America, being founded by the French Huguenots in 1678, not many people are aware that the Huguenots were direct descendants of the Gauls, one of the Celtic Tribes of Iron Age Europe.

What’s even more fascinating is that recent archaeological discoveries, along with a growing body of historical evidence, has given rise to credible theories that the Celts may well have walked upon these sacred shores long before Columbus.

In fact, in her book on the origins of the Native American tribes, Dr Kuman notes how Welsh Pilgrims, from the British Isles, were able to converse with Mandan "Indians," each speaking their native Cymric language and able to understand each other perfectly.

Dr. Maria Kuman, Celts In America Before Columbus: Origin of the “Native” Americans (Health & Happiness Press, Knoxville, 2003).

Described as “an incredible historical treasure for our state” by Senator Jen Metzger, Historical Huguenot Street not only works to preserve the structures themselves, but provides a valuable educational role in sharing the many stories of all the cultures that have inhabited the region. They often hold “in the moment” events were the historic street becomes a living museum, replete with "actors" in period dress who directly engage with visitors to provide a unique insight to life in the early 18th century.