The Spencertown Academy to Host Chamber Holiday Business After Hours

Hudson, NY – Join us as The Spencertown Academy Arts Center hosts a Holiday Business After Hours for Columbia County Chamber of Commerce members and their guests on Thursday, December 13 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. The Chamber will be introducing the 2008 Board of Directors. We will also be unveiling the 2008 Directory and Community Guide.

The Spencertown Academy is known for its rich history in Columbia County . The lovely Greek revival building that houses The Spencertown Academy was built in 1847 as an Academy for the training of young men and women to become teachers. It was founded by Dr. Timothy Woodbridge, who was pastor of Saint Peter's Church across the Village Green from the Academy. Woodbridge was a grandson of Stockbridge preacher Jonathan Edwards and a cousin of Aaron Burr. Woodbridge became blind while studying at Williams College . The money to build the Academy was raised by Dr. Woodbridge from members of the community.

The Academy was designed and built by Benjamin Ambler. In about 1879 the Academy became a Union Free School , a two-room schoolhouse for the children of Spencertown grades one through eight. It remained a school until 1970 when the children were bussed into Chatham .

In 1972, seeking to save the classic building, a group of concerned citizens and artists formed the Spencertown Academy Society and established cultural center which serves the community with arts events, classes and exhibits, and has also been restoring the building which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Spencertown Academy is governed by a Board of Directors made up of concerned citizens from the surrounding communities. It is staffed by an executive director, an artistic director, an education director, and many dedicated volunteers. Today, the Spencertown Academy Arts Center is a host to many wonderful arts events, classes, gallery exhibits and musical performances year round. Join us to explore this wonderful organization.

Business After Hours offer excellent networking opportunities for area business people. All members of the business community are invited to attend this business event. Light refreshments, tours and hors d'oeuvres will be provided. The Spencertown Academy Arts Center is located at 790 Route 203 in Spencertown. Please call the Chamber for directions. There is no cost to attend but guests are encouraged to contact the Chamber for reservations at (518) 828-4417.

The Columbia County Chamber of Commerce, with its 850 members, is the leading voice of business in Columbia County, providing advocacy, promotional and benefit solutions for its members. Those seeking more information concerning the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and membership can contact the Chamber at (518) 828-4417 or visit the website at www.columbiachamber-ny.com.