Town prepares for Quadricentennial

AMENIA — Former town Supervisor Arlene Iuliano reported to the Town Board on the status of the town’s participation in the Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial Commemoration, which will celebrate the exploration of the Hudson River by English Captain Henry Hudson 400 years ago.

The last time the issue was discussed, the board voted to use a $1,000 grant received from the National Heritage Trust, to print 2,500 pamphlets with text and a large map of Dutchess County drawn by a local resident.

Iuliano said that Rooney Designs, which will print the pamphlets, is currently working on scanning the map document, as well as additional pictures given to Iuliano.

The next step, she explained, was coming up with written material. Being part of the town’s historical society, Iuliano will write up some local history.

Part of the celebration will include the opening of the Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie. Measuring one-and-a-quarter mile in length, it will be the longest pedestrian bridge in the world.

“There’s been a lot of money donated and put into the project,� Iuliano said. “It’s very interesting and I’m glad to [help out],� she said.

Town Supervisor Wayne Euvrard pointed out that the celebration is planned for Oct. 3. The town has been invited to bring a bus load of residents and town officials to help celebrate.

Euvrard said he was writing a letter to Webutuck Central School District Superintendent Richard Johns, asking permission to use a school bus for the event. School bus driver Rudy Eschbach has volunteered his time to drive. Euvrard said anyone who is interested in going will be asked to contribute a small donation to help cover the cost of the trip.

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