Dovecote, my wonderful Victorian “cottage” was originally the guest house for two mansions built by John Stott, after whom the hamlet was named. Entering this house, you’ll be transported back to the 1880’s—except with modern comforts! A big kitchen/dining space, living room, library and powder room make up the first floor. Upstairs are three bedrooms, a full bath with shower and tub, and a laundry room. A wide porch wraps two sides of the house.

The grounds include a flat yard area, and the property runs down to Claverack Creek. Butterflies and birds visit the flowerbeds; other visitors include herons, bald eagles, various hawks, and several species of woodpeckers. A mother deer and her fawn seem to have taken up residence; I recently found the fawn asleep in the ferns by the back porch. Sunsets are spectacular over the water (and the Catskills, in winter.). The nights are almost silent, except for the frogs, and the stars are amazing—there’s surprisingly little light pollution here.

The furnishings are a combo of estate sale and auction finds. Excellent mattresses, high thread count linens and down pillows make for a good night’s sleep. Good cookware and gas grill on the kitchen porch make cooking a pleasure. There’s china for 16 if you’re feeling formal and ambitious….

Hudson, with its galleries, restaurants and other hot spots is three miles away; Walmart (I know, I know, but it’s so handy!) and Lowe’s are 1.5 miles. There are also other grocers and more important, farm stands and stores, for incredible local meat, eggs, fruit and veggies.

One thought: my house is 140 years old and has some of the aches and pains that come with age. The porch has a couple of funky, boarded up areas; the stall shower is NOT glamorous; the flower beds may be weedy. It’s not a showplace, it’s my home, and since I don’t have unlimited funds to plow into it, it’s not in perfect condition. BUT: I love it, and I bet you will, too.

Please note:
MINIMUM RENTAL IS ONE WEEK.

Thank you!