The History of Black Walnut Farm

A Living History in the Heart of the Hudson Valley

We’re learning more each month about this remarkable historic property and the vibrant town of Saugerties, New York, where it stands. What follows is a working timeline of Black Walnut Farm’s history—as we know it today. This story is still unfolding, and we’re thrilled to be its latest chapter.

1747

The Stone House Is Built
The heart of Black Walnut Farm is its beautifully preserved 18th-century Dutch stone house, built in 1747 on traditional Esopus land. Using local stone and classic Dutch Colonial craftsmanship, this home is one of the oldest surviving structures in Saugerties. Thick stone walls, original beams, and hand-forged iron details make it a lasting symbol of early Hudson Valley settlement.

1817

The Myer Family Acquires the Farm
In the earliest official records of the property, Daniel Polhemus sells the farm to Benjamin Myer for $2,450—a notable sum at the time. At this point, the stone house was a seven-bedroom residence with two staircases, suggesting it may have served as a guest house for travelers along Kings Highway, one of the region’s most important early roads. The farm’s location near the Esopus and Plattekill Creeks made it a natural rest stop for trade and travel.

1831

From “Ulster” to “Saugerties”
The village was officially incorporated as “Ulster” in 1831, but by 1855, the town adopted the name “Saugerties,” derived from the Dutch Zagertje’s Kill, or Sawyer’s Creek. This renaming reflects the town’s growth from wilderness to a bustling riverside community rich with history, industry, and culture.

1850

The Singer Sewing Machine Arrives
The invention of the Singer sewing machine revolutionized rural domestic life. At Black Walnut Farm, one of these vintage machines still sits upstairs—a quiet relic of a time when self-sufficiency was key to farm life. It’s a beautiful reminder of how everyday tools shaped the lives of early American families.

1884

The Railroad Comes to Saugerties
The New York, West Shore and Buffalo Railway—later absorbed by the New York Central and now operated by CSX—was completed through Saugerties, running directly in front of Black Walnut Farm. This rail line, known today as the CSX River Subdivision, brought goods, mail, and opportunity to the area. It also marked a shift in Saugerties' economy from agrarian roots to industrial and commercial development along the Hudson River corridor.

1891

The Historic Barn Is Erected
On October 2, the farm’s signature barn was constructed by the Frese Brothers—local barnwrights and shoemakers—and builder K. Keller. Designed as a home for horses, cows, and hay, the barn was a centerpiece of farm life in the late 19th century. Crafted with traditional post-and-beam construction, it remains a testament to the hardworking spirit of Saugerties farmers and continues to serve as a gathering place today.

1902

A Book Is Written at the Farm
Benjamin Myer Brink, a descendant of the Myer family and former resident of the farm, publishes The Early History of Saugerties while living in the stone house. This comprehensive account remains one of the most important written histories of the region, capturing the origins of the town, including the arrival of the Palatines, the Esopus Wars, and the development of early settlements.

1983

The Cunningham Restoration
Chet and Myra Cunningham acquire the farm in 1983 and lovingly restore both the house and barn. Their work preserved much of the home's historic character; hand-hewn beams, stone masonry, and antique hardware, while updating the property for modern use. We owe much of the farm’s present-day charm and integrity to their vision and dedication.

2021

A New Generation Begins
On July 13, 2021, we became the newest stewards of Black Walnut Farm. Since then, we’ve been learning everything we can about its past while planting new roots for the future. We believe in honoring this land’s story—with all its grit, grace, and legacy—while creating space for community, creativity, and celebration. We can’t wait to welcome you here.

A Note on Living History

Black Walnut Farm isn’t just a beautiful wedding venue or weekend retreat—it’s a living, breathing piece of Saugerties history. With each uncovered artifact, faded ledger, or newly shared story from a neighbor, the past becomes just a bit more present. Thank you for being a part of it.