Supervisor George Hoehmann and the Town of Clarkstown are proud to announce that Tilcon
New York Inc. has generously donated the historic Storms Tavern property to the Town. This
donation marks a significant milestone in the continued efforts to preserve important pieces of
Clarkstown’s history, and ensures that this cherished local landmark will remain standing as an
historical landmark for generations to come. This is a wonderful gift to the people of Clarkstown
and I am incredibly grateful to Tilcon NY for their generosity and for recognizing the importance
of preserving our shared heritage.
Storms Tavern, located at 407 Storms Road in Valley Cottage, is believed to have been built in
approximately 1765. Most recently used as a single family home, the house on the land
originally owned by Abraham Storms stands as one of Clarkstown’s most recognizable and
historically significant buildings. In the days of the American Revolution, the tavern and inn
served as a stagecoach stop along the route to Kingston, NY, and as a gathering place for both
locals and travelers alike. In the 1850s, a general store was added to the operation. The tavern is
rumored to have served as a safe haven for slaves seeking freedom in the Underground Railroad
network. Sadly, a terrible fire in the late 1800s caused extensive damage to the tavern, wiping
out nearly half of the structure. The home was reconstructed shortly after.
According to former Clarkstown Historian Bob Knight, General George Washington was one the
tavern’s patrons, having met there with officers in the Continental Army. Knight stated it is
unknown if Washington stayed for a night, but if you visit the property today you will likely be
in Washington’s footsteps. The original sandstone block which served as the stagecoach drop off
and entrance to the tavern, where Washington likely entered the tavern, still stands today. The
Town of Clarkstown officially designated the home as historic in 1977.
After a number of ownership changes, the property was eventually purchased by Tilcon New
York. In the 1970s, the house was determined to be in bad disrepair and Tilcon had proposed to
demolish it. Thankfully, amid a great deal of public and town opposition, those plans were
eventually scrapped. The house was repaired instead, and served as a home to Tilcon employees
for many years before becoming vacant once again. Recently, Tilcon and the Town reopened
discussions about the future use of the property and Tilcon generously made the decision to
donate it to the Town.
The Town is currently evaluating future plans for the home and grounds, with an emphasis on
preservation and public use. Additional details will be shared as plans progress.
