Constable Hall honored with Senate Empire Award

Jan. 1—CONSTABLEVILLE — The historic Constable Hall was honored with the New York State Senate Empire Award, presented by state Sen. Mark Walczyk.

Built in 1819, the hall serves as a museum, a venue for special events and is rented out for private occasions.

The award is presented to nonprofits for outstanding contributions and dedication to growth in their community.

"We are pleased to announce that on Tuesday, Dec. 19, the Constable Hall Association received the prestigious 2023 New York State Senate Empire Award," said Loraine O'Donnell, Constable Hall executive director. "A special thank you to Senator Mark Walczyk for presenting this honor in the beautiful drawing room of Constable Hall. As a supporter of the hall himself, he understands the importance of Constable Hall and its role in the community to preserve the history of the region. We consider the hall a place for the community to come together and not only learn about our shared history but to experience all the art, music, literature and events the hall now offers. This recognition tells us that our mission to preserve this piece of history is on-track, and that our future plans to offer more events like last season's "Color Run" and "Tea on the Veranda" will bring in something for everyone. We want our visitors to consider "The Hall" a place to learn early American History; create, with painting classes in the garden; and celebrate nature through our beautiful grounds and garden."

Ms. O'Donnell and board president Mary Constable Crouch accepted the award on behalf of the association.

"We are incredibly grateful to be recognized for our dedication to making a positive impact in our community," said the director. "Numerous updates and improvements have been made to the hall over the past few years, all thanks to the hard work and support of our board and the surrounding community. We would like to express our deepest appreciation to all the friends of the hall who have contributed to these exciting developments."

The director said through the award, Constable Hall will receive more recognition and that more people will visit the historic site, which is thought to be an inspiration for the holiday tale "'Twas a Night Before Christmas." The author was a cousin of the Constables, and is said that many elements from the hall were incorporated into the story.