The Old Catskill Hotels

Back in the mid 1800's and in Victorian times the privileged would spend their summers in what was then known as the Catskill Mountain Houses. These were immense mansions on the cliffs overlooking the Hudson Valley where they would restore themselves with the fresh mountain air. I've always been fascinated by the Mountain Houses and the Hudson River School of Artists.... the ground breakers for American Art. Frederick Church, Thomas Cole, Asher B. Durand and many others found great inspiration in the Catskill Mountains for their art. Frederick Church fashioned his mansion in such a way that all of the windows would frame the Hudson River just as though it were a painting. His home is called Olana, and if you are ever near Hudson, N.Y. it is a fascinating home to see, along with his paintings on display.
With the Catskill Mountain Houses and Hotels in mind I fashioned an old room key from a heavy piece of copper for a necklace. Here is my 'antique' key necklace:
Just think of all the hands that held that 'old' key and the stories it could tell. ;o)

Have a great week...


Best...

Canace