Senate Resolution No. 2304

BY: Senator STEWART-COUSINS

COMMEMORATING the 150th Anniversary of the Village
of Sleepy Hollow, New York, on May 20, 2024; and

WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to honor and
commemorate the distinguished histories of the communities which
comprise the noble body of this great Empire State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Village of Sleepy Hollow, New
York, on Monday, May 20, 2024; and

WHEREAS, The Village of Sleepy Hollow's name is Dutch in origin,
believed to denote a description of a cove; the bordering Hudson River
contributed to the flourishing of the Village; and

WHEREAS, On May 20, 1874, the local government was established by a
group of concerned citizens, and their commitment is still sustained,
meeting the needs of the residents of the community; and

WHEREAS, The history of the Village of Sleepy Hollow dates back
farther than 1874 with The Old Dutch Church, built by Frederick Philipse
in 1685, recognized as one of the oldest churches in New York State
still holding worship services; this national landmark is the setting
for Washington Irving's short story, "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow", and
General George Washington and his Continental Army rested at the church
on July 2, 1781, on their way to meet the French Army in Dobbs Ferry;
and

WHEREAS, Through preserving the natural beauty of the area the
residents have created a charming atmosphere and contributed to the
captivating history which has made Sleepy Hollow a popular destination;
with picturesque sights including lush parks, The Old Dutch Church,
Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse, and Kykuit, the
Rockefeller Estate; and

WHEREAS, Being tied to one of the oldest American horror stories,
"The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," the village has a historical connection
to Halloween; an estimated 100,000 tourists visit the village annually
to celebrate the holiday and discover the area's legends of lore; and

WHEREAS, There is a range of famous figures who rest in the Sleepy
Hollow Cemetery, including Washington Irving, Andrew Carnegie, and
Elizabeth Arden; and

WHEREAS, The Village of Sleepy Hollow offers a wide variety of
outdoor adventures and activities, with parks, forests, rivers, lakes,
streams and trails along one of the most scenic stretches of the Hudson
River; it also offers many programs for all residents from the seniors
to the youngest generations; and

WHEREAS, Of historic origin, the Village of Sleepy Hollow has
remained fruitful over the ebb and flow of decades of growth and change,

and will continue to adapt for the challenges of the future while always
remembering the history and tradition that has led its community to such
an exceptional milestone; and

WHEREAS, The residents of the Village of Sleepy Hollow have a bright
outlook for the future of their community which remains a beautiful
place in which to live, raise a family, conduct business, and enjoy the
natural beauty and historical sites that make this sector of New York
State a charming and welcoming community, its population growing to more
than 12,000 residents who are grateful to call it home; and

WHEREAS, In recognition of the Village of Sleepy Hollow's rich
history and enduring contribution to the State of New York, this
Legislative Body is proud to pay tribute to this spirited village upon
the occasion of its 150th Anniversary; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Village of Sleepy Hollow, New
York, on May 20, 2024, recognizing the significance of the role it
continues to play in the life of the communities of the State of New
York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Village of Sleepy Hollow.