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Where in the Hudson Valley…?
Magazine editors are always searching for (as radio commentator Paul Harvey says) “the rest of the story.” We were not surprised when most of the readers who wrote identified the Colonial soldier in our December issue as the guardian of the Mount Gulian Historic Site in Fishkill (yes, it’s in Fishkill, not Beacon). We were thrilled, though, to receive the letter from Ms. Scalzo (below) which adds another aspect to the history of this roadside warrior. Our thanks to her — and to Mount Gulian’s Elaine Hayes — for their help.
December’s winner, John Whitcomb of Poughkeepsie, receives a gift certificate to a local eatery. This month’s puzzler — which must rank as one of the most unusual anniversary gifts ever received — is on page 64.
Not only do I know that this “Silent Sentinel” stands in front of Mount Gulian on Route 9D in the town of Fishkill, but I know who made and modeled it. My husband, Rich Scalzo, was a board member some years ago. Being very artistic, he came up with the idea of a life-sized silhouette of a Revolutionary soldier aiming a gun. The barrel of the gun would hang a sign telling of special events coming at Mount Gulian. He aimed a spotlight onto a piece of plywood while our daughter, Nicole (who’s also artistic) traced his silhouette onto it. He then cut it out and it has been standing “watch” since that time.
My husband passed away a few years ago, so it always brings a smile to our faces when my children and I pass by his now-painted soldier.
Sandy Scalzo
Poughkeepsie
I drive pass this silent sentinel every time I go to Dutchess Stadium to see the Hudson Valley Renegades!
Lindsey Nowicki
Pine Bush
This sentinel used to be a silhouette until this summer, when they painted it red, white and blue.
Edwina Pratt
Hopewell Junction
He is guarding the entrance to the Mount Gulian homestead. It is a beautiful site. Well worth a trip.
Pam LaLonde
Newburgh
Capital Region crusader
I read your magazine every month when a new issue arrives. I find that it is very informative for the areas written about.
I have a special love for Troy and Albany, which I visit often. To my surprise, I see nothing in any of the magazines about these cities. According to the map, Troy and Albany are well within the Hudson Valley.
Please pick up the pace and print some good articles about these two areas of interest.
Charles Morrow
Navasota, Texas
Happy trails
After reading the “Rail to Trails” article (September), I grabbed my family and suggested we explore Arden Point. (We plan to visit each of the beautiful sites mentioned.) We enjoyed a truly wonderful day of hiking in the autumn air along our beloved Hudson River. My five-month old granddaughter, Lylla, was totally enthralled with the walk. It was an exciting afternoon for her — but alas, this was she at the end of the walk.
I want to thank [writer] Greg Bruno for bringing these places to our attention. Next up, Breakneck Ridge!
Jan Melville
Jamaica, NY