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Trolley Station donated to the North Chatham Free Library

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NORTH CHATHAM–Longtime resident and former president of North Chatham Historical Society (NCHS) George Vollmuth donated the Trolley Station to the North Chatham Free Library (NCFL) in September.

For 75 years, the old Trolley Station on County Route 32 housed the North Chatham Firehouse until modern demands prompted the decision to build a new facility. So, in 2001, Mr. Vollmuth purchased the building with the intention of renovating it to create a home for the North Chatham Historical Society. Once restored to its former glory, it was rededicated with an open house on December 1, 2012.

“My hope is that in giving the Trolley Station to the North Chatham Free Library, it will give the space new life and allow the history of the hamlet to continue to be seen, told and celebrated,” said Mr. Vollmuth in a press release.

George Vollmuth

Library Board President Kim Grethen expressed her gratitude, saying, “Through George’s extraordinary and magnanimous gift, we have gained sorely needed meeting space that is ADA compliant and makes every program accessible for our entire community.”

Ms. Grethen added, “Linking the Trolley Station and the library creates an historical and educational hub. We are excited that the Historical Society will continue to call the Trolley Station home and look forward to a future of the two institutions working hand in hand.”

Judy Albert, the current president of the North Chatham Historical Society, agreed, noting, “The unique relationship of these heritage sites, which straddle the historic Albany-Hudson Electric Trail, offers a destination to visitors, community members and surrounding neighbors who are cycling, walking or exploring the heart and history of our hamlet.”

North Chatham Trolley Station

Ms. Albert continued, “We’re grateful to George Vollmuth for his vision and generosity which, through this gift, will enhance the capacity of the library and Historical Society to serve the community we love.”

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