New York State Armory (Newburgh) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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New York State Armory
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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The Armory building in 2007
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| Location | Newburgh |
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| Built | late 19th century |
| Architect | John A. Wood |
| Part of | East End Historic District (ID85002426) |
| NRHP reference No. | 81000411 |
| Added to NRHP | 1981 |
The New York State Armory is a historic building in Newburgh, New York. It was built in 1880 on Broadway. An armory is a place where soldiers train and store their weapons. This building was designed by John A. Wood. It was home to a local group of soldiers called the New York National Guard.
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A New Home for the Guard
In the 1930s, the National Guard moved. They got a newer armory on South William Street. The old armory building became empty. It then became property of the city of Newburgh.
Fire Damage and New Life
In the 1970s, the building was badly damaged by a large fire. Even so, it stayed standing. It looked quite rundown in the Lower Broadway area.
Becoming a Historic Place
In 1981, the armory got a special honor. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This important list helps protect old buildings. Being on the list helped stop the armory from being torn down.
Part of a Bigger Picture
Four years later, the armory became even more special. It was named a "contributing property" to the East End Historic District. This district is also on the National Register. It includes over 2,000 important buildings.
Restoring the Armory
For many years, nothing was done to fix up the old armory. But in the late 1990s, things changed. The city of Newburgh sold the building to Orange County. They sold it for just one dollar! The county also gave the city its old courthouse.
A Big Renovation Project
Orange County hired a company called Gemma Development. Their job was to restore the armory. The project was a big success. It even won an award from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. The company spent a lot of money, including $28,000 for a beautiful mahogany door.
What the Armory Is Used For Now
Today, the old armory is a busy place. It holds the Orange County Social Services department. This office helps many people in the community. Other county offices are also located there.
The Future of the Building
Orange County has a 20-year agreement to use the building. After this time, the armory will be available for sale again.
