A Museum for Red Hook
Expanding programs and public hours at the Elmendorph Inn
Join Historic Red Hook in taking the next big step: launching new educational programs and expanded open hours that allow the Elmendorph Inn to connect visitors with the past in meaningful ways.
We need your input—and your support.
We’re developing new tours, exhibits, and programs that tell the story of the Elmendorph Inn and the town of Red Hook. Your voice can help shape how history is shared—and your donation can help make it happen.
Phase 1: Planning the Story
2024–2025 | Goal: $29,100
We’re developing our first interpretive plan. This includes archival research, community input, and work with expert consultants to define what stories we want to tell and how.
✓ Funded by Arts Mid-Hudson, Ascienzo Foundation, Humanities NY
Phase 2: Designing the Experience
2025–2026 | Goal: $64,700
We’ll create new tours, signage, school programs, and materials that bring the Inn’s stories to life for students, families, and visitors.
Phase 3: Opening the Doors
2026–2027 | Goal: $56,200
With your help, we’ll open the Inn 3 days a week with a mix of guided and self-guided options, trained staff, and field trips.
Make a Donation
Fill out the form below to send us a payment online or send us a check, payable to Historic Red Hook, to: Attn: Donations, Historic Red Hook, PO Box 397, Red Hook, NY 12571.
Your gift supports the transformation of the Elmendorph Inn into a museum for Red Hook—funding research, exhibits, community programs, and public access. Every donation helps bring this vision to life.
What your gift makes possible:
Give Online
Design & Materials Sponsor – $200–500 Covers high-quality graphic design and printed materials that make our history visible in the community.
Historical Research Sponsor – $1,000 Supports original research uncovering the lives of Red Hook’s everyday people.
Exhibit Prototype & Workshop Sponsor – $2,500 Brings new stories to life through prototype displays and public workshops.
Self-Guided Tour Sponsor – $5,000 Provides guides, maps, and digital resources so visitors can explore the site year-round at their own pace.
School Field Trip Sponsor – $7,500 Creates three engaging school programs for elementary, middle, and high school students, designed by civics education expert Sarah Jencks.
Visitor Experience Sponsor – $10,000+ Helps fund the design of a new permanent tour experience for the Elmendorph Inn, led by nationally recognized interpretive planner Michelle Moon.
Get Involved
By signing up, you'll receive occasional updates about the project, invitations to community workshops and focus groups, and opportunities to share your ideas, stories, and support. Together, we can build a museum that reflects the history—and heart—of our town.
Interested in doing more? You’re welcome to set up a personal meeting with our Director, Elisabeth Tatum, to explore ways you can contribute your ideas, skills, or support. Email director@historicredhook.org to schedule a conversation.