GARRISON – U.S. Senator Charles Schumer was up early Monday traveling 90 minutes from his home in Brooklyn to Garrison where he met with local officials and staff at Boscobel providing good news.
Schumer has secured $500,000 in federal funding that has been included as a congressionally directed spending request through the National Parks Service’s Historic Preservation Fund for fiscal year 2026 that was approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee.
The federal funding Schumer is pushing for in the final FY 2026 budget bill would allow Boscobel to restore and structurally repair a damaged ceiling while increasing safety and accessibility throughout the landmark in addition to constructing public restrooms. Funding would also revitalize historic rooms, replace damaged textiles and wallpapers, and upgrade the building’s HVAC system to improve efficiency
On April 23, 2024, a section of the ceiling in the library of Boscobel collapsed and fell on the shelves and furniture below. The library, which dates back to the 19th century, housed a rare and valuable collection of books and manuscripts, some of which were damaged or destroyed by the falling debris. No one was injured in the incident, but the library was closed to the public and the staff was evacuated.
The damage to the library and its contents was estimated to be in the millions of dollars. The library contained over 10,000 books and manuscripts, some of which were rare and irreplaceable. Among the most notable items in the collection were a first edition of Shakespeare’s works, a handwritten letter by George Washington, and a signed copy of the Declaration of Independence. The library also featured original paintings, sculptures, and furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries. The estate manager said that some of the items were salvaged from the rubble, but many others were crushed or torn by the falling ceiling.
During his visit Schumer described “Boscobel House and Gardens as a “gem of the Hudson Valley. When I first heard the heartbreaking news about the historic library’s ceiling collapsing, I knew that it was vital that we secure all the support needed to restore this beloved building and collection. I’m here to launch my push to help Boscobel rebuild stronger than before and preserve this American treasure for the next generation. We must ensure this beautiful, historic house that tells the story of the Hudson Valley and our nation’s history can be enjoyed by more visitors for generations to come.”
Schumer’s trek to Putnam also marked one of the final stops on his 62-county tour for the year, continuing the tradition of visiting every county in New York State every year.
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