The Dutchess County Legislature has adopted a proclamation to recognize the county’s role in presidential history.
The proclamation declares the county “uniquely presidential.” Former County legislator and retired history teacher Joseph Lombardi brought the idea of celebrating Dutchess County’s presidential history to the legislature. Legislature Chairman Dale Borchert says the proclamation seemed appropriate at this time with both presidential candidates being New Yorkers. Dutchess County has counted among its residents vice presidents George Clinton and Levi Morton along with President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The county is home to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum which when it opened in 1941, became the first presidential library in the United States. Dutchess also houses Val-Kill, the home of Eleanor Roosevelt, the only home of a first lady to be declared a National Historic Site.
