This home built circa 1820 was originally owned by the Vanderbilt family. The Vanderbilts who lived here were dutch settlers and relatives of the famed railroad empire tycoon. Later owned by the Budke family from 1868-1934 and finally owned by John C. Traphagen, a NY banking titan.
The Tallman Budke House, the sandstone structure just down the street, was built around 1735 by Dutch settlers. Originally owned by the Tallman family, the home was later owned by the Budke family (around 1876). George H. Budke, who grew up in the home, was a premier historian noted for tracing the history of Rockland County. George Budke's collection of histortical documents are still considered the most complete in the state of NY and are housed in the archives of the NY Public Library.
The property was bought in 2017 by the Town of Clarkstown and the Heritage of West Nyack organization hosts a variety of programs so the attendees can experience the home and 9 acre property.
Bring your own pen.
This cache, along with others in West Nyack, is part of my Girl Scout Gold Award Project. The goal of my project is to encourage people of all ages to get outdoors, explore and learn some local history. I very much hope you enjoy my caches and help to teach others this activity that I love so much.
This cache has been planted with permission from the Town of Clarkstown, permit number 23.