Exploring Madame Brett Park and the Old Hat Factory in Beacon, NY: A Teen's Summer Adventure

August 10, 2024 Nick Kershaw 0 Comments

Summer in the Hudson Valley is all about finding those hidden gems where history meets nature. And if you’re like me, always on the lookout for a cool spot to explore with friends, then Madame Brett Park in Beacon, New York, is a must-visit. This park isn’t just about scenic trails and Insta-worthy views (though there’s plenty of that); it’s a place where the past feels alive, especially when you come across the remains of the old Tioronda Hat Factory right next to it.

A Walk Through History
Madame Brett Park isn’t just any park; it’s named after Catheryna Rombout Brett, a trailblazer from the 1700s who helped shape what Beacon is today. Back in the day, her gristmill, powered by Fishkill Creek, was the heart of the community. Fast forward a couple of centuries, and that same creek powered one of the town’s most important industries—hat making.
Beacon was once the hat-making capital of New York, second only to Danbury, Connecticut. Imagine this: back in the 1920s, there were about a dozen hat factories in Beacon, cranking out all kinds of hats that were shipped across the country. The Tioronda Hat Factory, which later became the Merrimac Hat Company, was one of the most prominent. It opened in 1879 and stayed in business until 1948, when changing fashion trends and cheaper imports led to its decline. By the time it closed, the hat industry in Beacon was fading, with the last factory shutting its doors in 2005.

The Ruins and the Park Today
Today, the old Tioronda Hat Factory is mostly in ruins, and what’s left has become a hauntingly beautiful backdrop for a hike in Madame Brett Park. The factory was damaged by fire in 2017, and now, all that remains are crumbling walls, which have a kind of eerie charm. Walking through the park, you can see the remnants of the factory alongside the Fishkill Creek, making it easy to imagine what life was like here a century ago.
The park itself is a peaceful retreat, perfect for those lazy summer days when you just want to hang out in nature. There’s a waterfall, marshlands filled with wildlife, and trails that take you right past the factory ruins. Whether you’re into hiking, birdwatching, or just chilling by the water with friends, this place has something for everyone.

Summer Vibes in the Hudson Valley
Spending a summer day at Madame Brett feels like you’ve discovered a secret spot that mixes adventure with a bit of history. The best part? It’s totally free and open year-round. After your hike, you can head into downtown Beacon to grab a bite or check out the local art scene, which has grown a lot in recent years. The whole area has this cool vibe that blends the old with the new, and it’s just an hour and a half from NYC, so it’s an easy day trip.
So next time you and your friends are looking for something to do, skip the usual spots and take a trip to Madame Brett. Trust me, exploring the ruins of the old hat factory is way cooler than it sounds. Plus, you’ll get some epic photos and maybe even learn a thing or two about the history of this amazing town.