About American House - Coxsackie

The Perfect venue for your special event.

Interior of American House facing two pantings on the wall
Old photo of the front of American House

A Place In History

Nestled in the heart of Coxsackie, the American House stands as a testament to history, resilience, and transformation. This two-story Victorian brick building, with its intricate wooden façade, has witnessed over a century of change, each era adding its own unique chapter to the building’s story.It all began in the summer of 1848 when George Reed, the namesake of Reed Street, sold a parcel of land to Anthony Van Bergan. Van Bergan, with a vision and a craftsman’s touch, constructed what would become 1 Reed Street. The building, with its ornate carvings and commanding presence, quickly became a landmark as the years rolled by.

In 1880, the building embarked on a new journey under the ownership of Michael Prendergast, an Irish immigrant who brought with him a spirit of determination and community. The first floor became a bustling saloon, a gathering place where stories were shared, and the warmth of camaraderie filled the air. Above, the Prendergast family made their home, a place of comfort and connection. When Michael passed away at the turn of the century, his daughter Ellen Prendergast Hynes and her husband took over the business. It was Ellen who gave the building its enduring name, the ‘American House.’ Though her husband managed the saloon, it was known throughout town that he never touched a drop of alcohol and would "dispense with any rowdiness in his establishment,” ensuring the place remained respectable for all.

Adapting to change

As the decades passed, the building adapted to the changing times. In 1926, it became the home of the Coxsackie Union News, with the newspaper office occupying the first floor and the American Legion holding meetings upstairs. The building buzzed with the energy of the press, the hum of printers, and the exchange of ideas, solidifying its place as a community hub.

By 1959, the building had changed hands once again, this time becoming the workspace of William Bergman, a local printer. For nearly three decades, the rhythmic clatter of the printing press echoed through the halls, as the building continued its role in shaping the stories of Coxsackie.

The late 1980s saw yet another transformation when renowned artist Len Tantillo acquired the building. With a deep appreciation for its history, Tantillo embarked on a meticulous renovation, breathing new life into the space while preserving its Victorian charm. The building, once again, became a canvas for creativity, its walls adorned with the echoes of both past and present.

An old picture of American House with almost an antique looking color quality with a hint of orange in the black and white photo

Contact us

Reach out to book an event!

Location
1 Reed St, Coxsackie, NY 12051
Meet Our Team

Dedicated professionals committed to exceptional event experiences.

Katlyn Irwin
Event Coordinator

Katlyn's professional background includes several years at the iconic Gramercy Tavern in New York City, Wine Director for the Abbey Restaurant Group in Murray Hill and wine instructor in both New York and London, UK.