Had to get away from the tree 🌳 removal debacle. Headed north after the end of my 12 hour shift and what a find.

Born in 1826 to a wealthy Hartford, Connecticut family, Frederick Church, was expected to follow his family fortunes in the now Aetna insurance industry. However, much to his families dismay, he took a different path…

After much discussion, his family succumbed, and allowed Frederick to study with Thomas Cole in his Hudson River School of Painting. With Cole’s guidance he continued his work learning all from this landscape master then moving beyond. While noted as a “school,” there were only 2 students with Church the prominent one.

Some of Church’s works..

In his first New York City showing his painting of the falls of Niagara was displayed. Patrons lined the streets for blocks to view this work which now hangs in the Met. It is spectacular.

In his early 30’s at this time he was world renowned. In the viewing line he noted a lively young woman from Ohio who had taken the train to NYC to view Niagara. After much arrangements, as this was the Victorian era, the couple were formally introduced and within a year wed.

A land purchase was made near the Cole’s and their first home on the Olana property was constructed.

Here 2 children were born who sadly died within 8 days of each other. The couple escaped their grief traveling to Jamaica where Frederick painted while visiting friends. Frederick traveled the world painting, often in unsafe areas.

I had been to Olana some 30 plus years ago when it was a bit of a wreck with massive plans for improvements. It was wonderful to return to see the beauty of this amazing spot recreated with the plans completed.

This was due to the works of many inclusive of Jackie Kennedy Onassis and Nelson Rockefeller.

The home and grounds are magnificent and a must see. Spend the day, walk the trails, bring your dogs, then journey across the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, a 1935 icon, to Tom Cole’s Home.

I’ve said enough. After 30 hours without sleep will let the pictures say all of Olana as sometimes pictures better define than words.