Historical Society

The Historical Society, Inc. Serving Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown is housed in the former home of Jacob Odell, first village president of Tarrytown. Collections include artifacts from the archeological dig of the Requa tenant farmstead, material relating to the capture of British spy Major John Andre by local militia, and domestic, educational and commercial objects relating to the history of Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow (formerly North Tarrytown).

Research collections include local newspapers from 1875 onward; books on local and state history; subject files on community institutions, people and events; records of local school districts and local businesses; historic maps and atlases covering local communities, Westchester County and the Hudson Valley; and historic photographs and postcards.

Location: 1 Grove Street, Tarrytown, NY 10591, 914-631-8374. http://www.thehistoricalsociety.net Metered street parking (not applicable on Sundays).

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Publications

The society has two local histories in print through the Images of America series: Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow in the 20th Century and Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow.

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Walking Tours

The Historical Society offers seasonal walking tours from various locations. Advance reservations required, a minimum of four (4) people is required to run a tour.

Tickets: https://www.thehistoricalsociety.net/events/tours-tarryhollow/

Tour 1: Tarryhollow: Sleepy Hollow, Irving, the Old Dutch Church (Irving, the Old Dutch Church and the Colonial Experience)

Embark on a captivating journey through the rich history of Sleepy Hollow, where the echoes of colonial America come to life. Join us for a 90-minute immersive walking tour, starting with the tale of the first Dutch settlers who lived on Philipsburg Manor, one of the largest colonial estates in the Hudson River Valley. You will also step inside the historic Old Dutch Church, immortalized by Washington Irving in the iconic short story “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”. Marvel at the timeless architecture and imagine the stories whispered within its historic walls.

As we explore the surrounding burial ground, you’ll learn about the individuals who lived in the Neutral Ground and fought valiantly in the American Revolution. Hear the fascinating histories of those who inspired Irving’s memorable characters and uncover the lives of the people who shaped this storied land.

Join us for an unforgettable experience where history, legend, and the spirit of Sleepy Hollow converge.

2026 Dates: This fall Tour 1 runs from September 5th through November 1, 2026. Tours run on Saturdays and Sundays at 10 am, 12 pm, and 2 pm.

Where: Tour starts at 418 North Broadway/11 Dell Street, Sleepy Hollow, New York. Limited parking is available in the neighborhood (please do not park on the grounds of Sleepy Hollow Cemetery).

Tour 2: Tarryhollow: Walking Through Time (Tarrytown)

This two-hour tour will introduce you to the unique history of Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow and to some of the most intriguing people who have ever lived here. The guides will lead you through the many sections of historic Tarrytown and regale you with enticing tales of local lore. Starting from Patriots Park, you will journey into the heart of Tarrytown, walking past historic sites and buildings while the guide shares stories of the individuals who made these places their home. The tales include historical accounts of real people and events, as well as a few unexplained incidents from the area’s legendary past. Each of our past residents has left their mark on the community, and a few of them may still linger nearby!

2026 Dates: TBD. Tickets will go on sale August 15.

Where: Tour 2 starts at Patriots Park. Please meet near the Captors Monument at the entrance on the east side of the park, adjacent to Broadway (Route 9). A minimum of four (4) people is required to run a tour. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start time to check in.

Tour 3: Tarryhollow: Walking Through Time (Sleepy Hollow)

This two-hour tour will introduce you to the unique history of Sleepy Hollow and to some of the fascinating people who once lived in – or visited – our Village. The guides will lead you through our historic Hudson River village and regale you with tales about some of our local heroes and villains. Starting from Patriots Park, you will journey into downtown Sleepy Hollow walking past historic sites you might have heard about! During this anniversary year (the Village of North Tarrytown/Sleepy Hollow is celebrating 150 years in 2024), the guides will share stories of the Philipse Family, Captain Kidd, the Rockefellers, Major John Andre, and many others. The tales include historical accounts of real people and events that may have you looking over your shoulder during your visit!

2025 Dates: TBD

Where: Tour 3 starts at Patriots Park. Please meet near the Captors Monument at the entrance on the east side of the park, adjacent to Broadway (Route 9). A minimum of four (4) people is required to run a tour. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start time to check in.

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