Alice Livingston, who donated Clermont to New York State in 1962, was an avid photographer who continually sought to capture the world and people around her on film.  Her photographs have left us with a rich picture of what life at Clermont was like during her residence here from 1906 to 1963. 

In her memory, the Friends of Clermont will feature a new picture on our website each week.  These pictures may illustrate what’s going on at Clermont right now, or they may be taken from Alice’s own extensive photographic albums.  Check back regularly to see what’s new this week!

Revelers on the grounds of Clermont for a July 4^th celebration, 1976

This photograph came from a collection of photographs, newspaper clippings, and pamphlets collected by Honoria Livingston McVitty during the 1970’s and 1980’s.  Honoria continued to live in Sylvan Cottage after the state purchased Clermont, and she was active in many events at the site.

The Livingston family’s involvement in the American Revolution has helped to make the 4^th of July an important event at Clermont.  In addition to the photo from 1976, the year of the bicentennial, Honoria also saved a pamphlet from July 4, 1987 celebrations at St. Paul’s Church in Tivoli.  There the Declaration of Independence was read, a wreath was dedicated in honor of the Chancellor Robert R. Livingston, Jr., and guests were invited to visit Clermont, where Revolutionary War re-enactors provided demonstrations.

Make sure to check out Clermont’s 4^th of July celebrations this year, which include a re-enactment of the raising of a liberty pole and reading of the Declaration of Independence, special tours of the house, kids’ crafts and contests, and a concert by The Providers.