Putnam Marker Honoring Warner Sisters Restored At Foundry Point Park

COLD SPRING, NY — Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne and County Historian Jennifer Cassidy joined officials and residents in Cold Spring to celebrate the restoration of the Warner Sisters Historic Marker at Foundry Dock Park.

The marker was the latest in Putnam to be removed, sandblasted, repainted, and reinstalled.

“It’s one thing to put in a marker like this, it’s another to be a custodian and take care of it,” said Putnam County Historian Jennifer Cassidy. “I want to thank our partners at Scenic Hudson for their support in this effort, and of course thank Mr. George Whipple for his willingness to invest and provide a real commitment to Putnam County’s history.”

The Warner sisters were originally from New York City and after their father lost the family money in the Panic of 1837, they moved north and settled into farm life on Constitution Island, just across the water from Foundry Dock Park and the location of this specific historic marker. To support the family, the sisters started writing stories and songs rooted in their Christian values. Susan’s most popular book, “The Wide, Wide World”, published in 1850, is considered one of the first American bestsellers.

During their time on the island, the Warner sisters would also conduct Bible classes for West Point cadets who would row over on Sundays.

Although geographically part of Putnam County, the island, including the Warner family’s house, was gifted to the West Point Military Academy, and is preserved as a historic landmark. In a nod to their dedication to the Academy and patriotism, the Warners took their final rest at West Point, buried among those who served our nation.

In 1998, the historic marker honoring the Warner Sisters was placed at the Hudson’s riverside near Foundry Cove in Cold Spring, NY, and was dedicated by Gov. George Pataki’s Commission honoring the achievements of New York State women.

“We have a remarkable County Historian in Jen Cassidy. Her expertise is invaluable. And to have community partners like George Whipple, who are willing to put time, resources, and effort into preserving local history is nothing short of extraordinary,” Byrne said. “Being able to highlight collaboration between so many entities on a project like this is always exciting. Thank you to all who were involved in this effort.”

The Warner Sisters event was also a celebration in honor of Women’s History Month.

“Putnam County women have devoted themselves to our local communities through business, arts, government, military, agriculture, social reform, and historic preservation,” said Legislator Nancy Montgomery. “It’s wonderful to see our community recognize women’s contributions to American History.”

Also in attendance at the event were Cold Spring Mayor Kathleen Foley, Philipstown Town Supervisor John Van Tassel, Nelsonville Mayor Christine Winward, Director of the Putnam History Museum Cassie Ward, and George Whipple.