Visit Old Austerlitz Historical Society

The Shop will be open with limited hours, during special events, and on occasion! The Shop.

Where to Find Us

11550 NY-22, Austerlitz, NY 12017

We are located 6 miles from the Berkshire/Columbia County line and less than 10 minutes off I-90 in picturesque Austerlitz, New York. Established in March of 1818, Austerlitz sits on the eastern edge of New York’s historic Columbia County.


Explore the Grounds!

While our special event hours are limited during the winter months, the beauty of Old Austerlitz is always open to explore! Wander our scenic woodland trails, take in the peaceful rural landscape, and enjoy a quiet escape into history.

Are dogs allowed?
Sometimes! Leashed dogs are welcome to join you for walks on our grounds, but they are not permitted at events, except for service animals.


What to See

 
The Austerlitz School House
The Original Austerlitz School House

Constructed in 1814, 2 years prior to the establishment of the town itself, this landmark held the distinction of being the district’s final one-room schoolhouse until its closure in 1955. In the 1890s, the school was relocated several yards south to its current site to accommodate the development of a private horse trotting track.

The Historic Harvey House

Dating back to its construction circa 1775 in East Canaan, Connecticut – The Harvey House faced demolition before being relocated 25 miles to Old Austerlitz in 2001. Today, it serves as the location for The Shop at Old Austerlitz, where visitors can find a diverse array of souvenirs, antiques, art, and locally crafted products.

The Austerlitz Christian Church

Constructed in 1853, the Austerlitz Christian Church was originally affiliated with the lesser-known “Christian Connexion” denomination. A late 18th and early 19th century Christian movement characterized by strict reliance to the Bible, and created during the settlement of the United States. Later serving as a Lutheran church until the early 1960s.

Today, the church stands preserved as a museum, meeting house, and exhibition space.

The Morey-Devereaux House

The Morey-Devereaux House, dating back to circa 1794 and named after its five-generation owners, now serves as a repository of history and culture. It features period-decorated rooms, exhibit spaces, a research library, and administrative offices for the historical society. Adjacent to the house, the Morey-Devereaux Barn, also dating from circa 1794, houses a display of farm equipment from our collection. It doubles as a versatile venue for meetings and special events. Additionally, the Morey-Devereaux Carriage Shed, reconstructed from its original form, showcases an assortment of unique farm machinery and tools from our collection, offering further insight into rural life.

Morey-Devereaux Barn &
Morey-Devereaux Carriage Shed
Robert Engel Blacksmith Shop

The Robert Engel Blacksmith Shop, dating back to the 1850s, remains an active working shop where local blacksmiths regularly practice their craft.

The Robert Herron Home

The Robert Herron Home, formerly the residence of antiques dealer and founding member Robert Herron, is a unique property created by merging two historic houses from Austerlitz into a single home.

The Varney House

Dating back to the early 1800s, is also part of the Robert Herron Trust. Featuring period furnishings, the home includes a side enclosed porch that served as the Austerlitz Post Office from 1935 to 1960. We hope to offer tours of this historic home soon.