For those who can’t get enough of ogling our region’s rich heritage of historic architecture, of well-preserved gracious homes with restored interiors and period furnishings, there tends to be a bit of a lull in the autumn between the ubiquitous fundraising house tours of summer and the opulent bedecking of riverfront mansions for the winter holidays. Fortunately, Hudson River Heritage has something to quell your cravings on Saturday, October 13.
That estimable organization’s 24th annual Country Seats Tour will focus as usual on homes of distinction in the “Estates District” of Dutchess and Columbia Counties. What’s different about it this year is the fact that all of the “turn-of-the-century” structures to be visited were in fact built before the turn of the last century. Not counting the 1899 Church of the Messiah in Rhinebeck, which will serve as the tour center, all points on the self-guided circuit are buildings that date between 1903 and 1999.
The October 13 tour will visit nine architecturally “significant” Hudson Valley country homes and outbuildings, both “modern” and “traditional” in style, constructed during the 20th century. They include Mansakenning, Orlot and the Hartshorn Residence in Rhinebeck; Fallen Pines Farm in Milan; the Pavilion at Chiddingstone in Germantown; the Edgewater Guest House in Barrytown; Half Moon in Rhinecliff; and the Weintraub Residence, town unspecified.
The buildings will be open for visitation between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Participation in the 20th-Century Country Seats driving tour costs $50 for Hudson River Heritage members, $55 for non-members. For an extra $18, by advance order only, you can pick up an elegant boxed lunch from Gigi’s Hudson Valley at the Tour Center upon check-in. You’re bound to find a pretty picnic spot as you’re making your rounds.
For tickets or more information, visit www.hudsonriverheritage.org or call (845) 876-2474.
The Hudson River Heritage 2012 Country Seats Tour will visit nine 20th-century buildings of architectural significance on Saturday, October 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Set out from the Church of the Messiah in Rhinebeck, where you can pick up a box lunch by pre-order. The self-guided automobile tour costs $50 for members, $55 general admission. Purchase tickets online at www.hudsonriverheritage.org/?wpsc_product_category=country-seats-tour or call (845) 876-2474.
Join the family! 
