Cultural & Historical

The Museum Village

Museum Village of Old Smith’s Clove, located at 1010 Route 17M in Monroe, New York, is a living history museum that offers an immersive experience into 19th-century rural life in the Hudson Valley. Founded in 1950 by philanthropist Roscoe William Smith, the museum was established to preserve and interpret the daily lives, industries, and technologies of the late 1800s. Visitors can explore a variety of historic buildings, including a one-room schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, print shop, general store, and a log cabin dating back to the 18th century. One of the museum's standout exhibits is the Natural History Museum, which houses a nearly complete mastodon skeleton named "Harry," offering a glimpse into prehistoric times. The museum also features hands-on activities such as candle-making and demonstrations of traditional crafts and trades, providing an engaging educational experience for all ages. Museum Village is open seasonally, typically from May through November, with hours of operation on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and children ages 4–15, and free for children under 4.