Hudson Valley Real Estate Blog

If you love the sense of celebration and sacred connection that you feel in the walls of an old church, you will enjoy the walk up Wurts Street, in Kingston’s Rondout.  

Called by historians, “the holiest street in Kingston,” Wurts Street has beautiful ecclesiastical architecture built by the many nationalities that emigrated and settled in this thriving maritime village.

Today, some of these churches have been de-sanctified and transformed into bed and breakfasts, private homes, and public spaces, having been maintained and restored for posterity by history-loving people.

One such church, a former Baptist Church, has been converted into the Church Des Artistes Bed and Breakfast by painter Julie Hedrick and her composer-husband Peter Wetzler.  The space also serves as a music performance and special events hall and an artist’s studio for Hedrick’s large paintings.  An outdoor courtyard features flowers, a fountain and umbrella-covered tables for outdoor breakfast or writing.

Another church, which is now for sale, is the onetime Trinity United Methodist Church (c.1868) on the same street.  It was recently renovated, including the 150’ slate spire and bell tower steeple, which took 5 years to repair.  Adding to the glory of the building are 11 original stained glass windows including one called, “Angel of Hope,” and a working Emmens & Howard church organ (c.1877) that can fill the space with a joyful noise! 

Located across from Cornell Park, this Gothic Revival edifice of 9,900 square feet has been completely restored including central air and heat, a fully functioning social hall with hardwood floors, new bathrooms and dressing rooms and a modern commercial-grade kitchen.

Included in the sale is the 2,700 square foot parsonage next door which has been gutted and is ready for finishing touches.  Still preserved and intact are tin ceilings, original balustrades, a butler’s pantry and round windows which match the Rondout’s maritime heritage allowing a view of the Hudson River! 

Check out the listing:  http://www.murphyrealtygrp.com/listing/20160847-29-35-wurts-street-kingston-ny-12401/#sthash.P8zlaaZR.dpuf  and call 845-338-5252 for more information.