Spanning the Wallkill River: The First Covered Bridges in New Paltz in the 1820s & Now

Join us for a fascinating afternoon with Ron Knapp, SUNY New Paltz Emeritus Professor and renowned historical geographer, as he uncovers the stories of the first covered bridges in New Paltz. Drawing on new research and documentary evidence, Dr. Knapp will explore the 1820s construction of the New Paltz, Perrine’s, and Phillies bridges—highlighting their engineering ingenuity, cultural legacy, and the preservation battles that shaped their survival. Don’t miss this richly illustrated talk celebrating the beauty and resilience of America’s early infrastructure—and the enduring landmark that still stands today: Perrine’s Bridge.

This event is free, but seating is limited—please reserve your spot in advance.
We suggest a donation of $15 to support the Sunday Salon Series and the work of the Ulster County Historical Society. You can contribute online when you RSVP or donate at the event itself via cash, check, or credit card.

Ron Knapp is Emeritus Professor at SUNY New Paltz and a leading scholar of historical geography. He has conducted research on the cultural landscapes of China since 1965 and the United States since 2010. The author, editor, or contributor of over 20 books, his recent works—Theodore Burr and the Bridging of Early America (2023) and America’s Covered Bridges (2014), both coauthored with Terry Miller—reflect his deep expertise in timber bridge history and preservation.