Kingston, NY - Ulster County Clerk Nina Postupack is pleased to announce the opening of the Matthewis Persen House Museum & Cultural Heritage Center’s 2021 season on Thursday, June 17. The Persen House is located at the corner of Crown and John Streets in uptown Kingston’s Stockade National Historic District.  The house will be open for the summer season on Thursdays & Fridays, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturdays, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The Persen House, named after its longest resident, Matthewis Persen (1739-1819), and owned by Ulster County since 1914, has undergone extensive restoration since emergency repairs in 1999 revealed its historical significance. This house was built in five phases from 1661 to 1922 and has witnessed the entire history of Kingston.  Since opening its doors as a museum and cultural heritage center, the Persen House has had over 31,000 visitors from all 50 states and 57 countries!

Nina Postupack is looking forward to the 2021 Persen House season. "We are so fortunate to be able to open the Persen House this year,” said Postupack.  “The ability to take a step back in time is a treat for the whole family.   We also want to ensure that the Persen House continues to be a viable resource for historical, cultural and community organizations throughout Ulster County.”

The County Clerk’s Office is committed to providing a safe environment for hosts and visitors.  Signs will be posted throughout the house reminding guests to maintain 6-feet between parties for social distancing.  Also, masks will be required unless proof of COVID-19 vaccination can be provided.

For further information about the Matthewis Persen House Museum and other outreach programs of the Ulster County Clerk’s Office, please contact County Clerk Nina Postupack at (845) 340-3040 or countyclerk[at]co.ulster.ny[dot]us or visit us on Facebook.