Historic Environments

Kimlin Cider Mill is a historic landmark located on Cedar Avenue in Poughkeepsie, NY. The property is an old barn, circa 1880, resting on 2 acres of land that was converted into a cider mill by the Kimlin family around 1925-1935. The property used to be used for farming, with sheep being raised behind the mill. The Cider Mill Friends are the current owners of the barn. They are the preservation group that saved the historic site from destruction and are working towards restoring this piece of the community’s history. If they had not prevailed in saving the barn, it wouldn’t been torn down and turned into a subdivision. They have received financial help from state organizations and through donations, however they are short of the necessary funds to restore the property. In order to maintain preservation efforts and funds, the Cider Mill Friends envision turning the barn into a retail attraction, such as a restaurant, a tourist attraction, or a museum.  

The Cider Mill Friends were impressively knowledgeable about the history of the cider mill and the Kimlin family. They mentioned that the original cider press was powered by horses and that the Kimlins actually sold some of their cider to Mott’s. The cider mill remains culturally relevant to the community by hosting events throughout the year, such as cider tasting events every year. The Cider Mill Friends provided convincing arguments when asked why we, the community, should want to save this place. They noted that the cider mill was noteworthy, interesting, and a unique “part of the community.” They argued that this site was important for preserving the history of their community. In this sense, the residents of the Town of Poughkeepsie should feel very drawn to the preservation of this site, as it is intended to preserve their own community’s history. Vassar students even used to walk all the way from campus just to stop by and grab some cider!