America's OLDEST Inn: The Beekman Arms of Rhinebeck, New York

In this video, we visit America's "Oldest" Continuously Operating Inn in Rhinebeck, Dutchess County New York. Known as the Beekman Arms, the building has a storied history dating back to the year 1766 when a founding member of the town of Rhinebeck named William Traphagen established the inn as a stopping point for travelers and settlers migrating to western New York.

During the period of the American Revolution, the Inn was owned and operated by Evardus Bogardus, a patriot and local citizen who served in the militia. George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, Benedict Arnold, Philip Schuyler and other prominent American military officers resided at the inn during the war for periods of time. Additionally, the 4th New York (4th Continental) Infantry practiced military maneuvers on the property.

As the years went by and the inn changed ownership, other notable Americans in history frequented the location, such as the 8th President Martin Van Buren and Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who concluded every campaign for governor or president with a speech from the inn's front porch.

The inn is still operated today, and a restaurant also operates which serves a hearty fanfare of colonial era beverages and American food in a historic setting.