First Columbians is the Historical Society's major fundraising event each year—developed and refined for more than a decade and historically bringing in close to $50,000 for the venerable organization. The event begins with a cocktail reception and silent auction, after which the guests disperse to private homes throughout the county for dinner.
Since 2009 marks the Quadricentennial of the discovery of the Hudson River by Henry Hudson, whose exploration was financed by the Dutch East India Company and led to the creation of the New Netherland colony in the Hudson Valley, the spacious lawn around the Van Alen House was the perfect setting for this year's festive gathering, acknowledging and celebrating the region's Dutch beginnings. The Van Alen House is an example of Dutch architecture in the Hudson Valley. Built in 1737, it is typical of the houses of Dutch farmers and merchants in the region that was once New Netherland.
The weather on June 6 was as perfect as the setting, marred only by the cottonwood shower guests had to make their way through on their way from the parking lot. The glorious evening light and the warm but not hot temperature were exactly what outdoor event planners hope for.
Under an enormous tent, tables of sumptuous hors d’oeuvres—including an ice sculpture swan holding a small mountain of shrimp—were set out in the center of the tent, while around the perimeter, the bar shared space with the tables that held the vast array of silent auction offerings. Guests could bid on anything from garden consultations and spa afternoons to dinners at area restaurants, collectible books, and other desirable objects.
Guests of honor at First Columbians 2009 were two Columbians who are playing significant roles in the year-long Quadricentennial celebrations in the Columbia County and beyond: Joan K. Davidson, the chairman of the New York State Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial Commission, and Ruth Piwonka, the chairman of the Columbia County Quadricentennial Committee.
The Columbia County Historical Society continues its observance of the Quadricentennial with a special exhibition called Celebrate! at the Columbia County Museum, located at 5 Albany Avenue in the Village of Kinderhook. The museum is open Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.
