Historic Akin Free Library And Museums
The Akin Free Library is a distinguished example of eclectic late Victorian design. The building, begun in 1898 and completed in 1908 combines Renaissance Revival and Neo-Greco details, with a three-story central tower topped by an ornate cupola and an arched entrance portico. The Akin Free Library continues as a cultural and architectural focus of the rural community of Quaker Hill. The library retains a high degree of integrity of design and materials. The building was nominated in 1991 as a national and state registered historic place. The library is especially useful as a reference library for the period around the 1800’s. It contains rare volumes, history, ledgers, and genealogy of this section of Dutchess County. Quaker History and biography, children’s literature, rare natural history books and literature make up the collection.
The Gunnison Museum of Natural History is located on the lower level of the library. Its collection covers all phases of natural history. The birds, bird eggs and mineral sections are outstanding and complete information on each item is provided in all areas.
The Historical Society Museum is housed on the second floor and was founded in 1910. Quaker Hill memorabilia, farm and kitchen implements and Mizzen Top Hotel items and ledgers are part of the collection. The Quaker Hill and Pawling Historical Society also maintain the Kane House in the Village of Pawling and the Quaker Meeting House (1764) on Quaker.
The Pawling Farmers Market
Pawling and its environs have a rich agricultural tradition. Since its founding in the mid-1700s, orchards, livestock and fields of corn and vegetables have been a fundamental part of life in Pawling. In early 2008, a group of residents approached the Town and the Chamber of Commerce with the proposal of creating a weekly farmers market in downtown Pawling. Thus began what is now known as the Pawling Farmers Market, bringing local produce and crafts to the center of town. Aligned both with the centuries-old tradition of "market day" and the recent popularization of local, healthy foods; the Pawling Farmers Market serves as a gathering spot for residents and a regional attraction. The Pawling Farmers Market runs from mid-June until the beginning of October.
