The Matthewis Persen House

An Official Path Through History Site. The Matthewis Persen House is one of Ulster County’s oldest, most significant buildings. Named after its longest residing owner, Matthewis Persen (1739-1810), the House is located within Kingston’s Stockade National Historic District. Its earliest portions date from c. 1661 and it is one of four landmark buildings on each corner of John and Crown Streets. Each house at this intersection pre-dates the Revolutionary War. The Persen House has been the home of doctors, tailors, innkeepers, druggists, grocers, and Ulster County government. It was burned at least twice, saw wars and revolution, and survived to tell its tale. To walk through this remarkable building, is to walk through Ulster County’s rich local history! Restoration of the Persen house began in 1999. During the restoration, the historic significance of the structure was uncovered. The house has been left unfinished to highlight the architectural significance of the different phases. The Persen House functions as Ulster County’s Heritage Gateway. Cultural Heritage Groups from throughout the county Guest Host at the House and share their treasure troves of history & culture with visitors. The County Clerk’s Office maintains permanent interpretive exhibits as well as rotating artifact exhibits and display space for guest hosts, local historical societies and community groups. The house is open each year from Memorial Day weekend through the end of October.