Living in Kingston, NY
Rising on the west bank of the Hudson River between New York and Albany, Kingston is a classic small city with a distinct historic precedent. Originally settled by the Dutch, Kingston was established by the British in 1664 and became the first capital of New York State in 1777. The original stone Senate House as well as numerous early stone houses remain from that era. With accessible riverfront, the city later became a shipping center for coal and bluestone, and a center for small industry. In the mid 20th century, a large IBM facility, since closed, dominated the economy.
With three distinct areas- the historic Stockade, Mid-Town and the waterfront Strand- and many established tree lined neighborhoods, the city is an encyclopedia of urban architecture- from grand Victorian, Italianate and Greek Revival, to vintage brick and frame multi and single family traditionals and more recently developed Capes, Colonials and Contemporaries. As the county seat, Kingston is home to governmental offices and a host of service professionals as well as 2 cooperating hospitals.
As the commercial hub for Ulster County’s small towns and villages, Kingston offers all the expected retail amenities as well as a broad selection of restaurants, nightlife and cultural venues. The Ulster Performing Arts Center attracts world class concerts and road shows. In addition, the surrounding rural countryside provides amazing opportunities for the outdoor enthusiast – hiking, skiing, boating, rock climbing, swimming and camping.
Like many small northeastern cities, Kingston is on the cusp of re-inventing itself as both a vibrant tourist destination with its historic landmarks, theme festivals and farm markets as well as a welcoming home to creative arts practitioners and IT professionals. Just 2 hours from midtown Manhattan, telecommuters are finding significant value in Kingston’s affordable real estate with easy access via train, bus or Thruway to their clients and customers in New York City.
