Lexington, Greene County

The Lexington Hotel, originally known as the Monroe House, is pleasantly situated on the banks of the Schoharie Creek in the quaint hamlet of Lexington. The three-story resort hotel with accommodations for 50 people was erected in 1878-9 in the Italiante architectural style. It was described in a Catskills tourist guide: “This new and elegant Hotel in unexcelled by any in the Catskills, for the accommodation of summer guests. A first-class City Bar, Bowling Alley and Billiard Hall are connected with the house. Special attention is given to driving parties. This house had recently been appointed a I. A. W. Hotel.” In its heyday, the hotel was one of many in the Lexington area that catered to summer tourists, others including the Lexington House, the O’Hara House, Shady Lawn, and the Kipp House.

The hotel was constructed by Major James Monroe Van Valkenburgh (1842-1912), prominent citizen and longtime village resident. He was an honored veteran of the Civil War having served in the 80th New York Volunteers and was badly wounded at the Second Battle of Bull Run. He later served as town supervisor and superintendent of highways for several years. He operated the hotel for many years until a few years before his passing.

Today, unfortunately, the property now appears abandoned and is suffering from years of neglect. The property is posted with no access permitted, but even with just exterior views only, you can still gain a small appreciation for the grand boarding houses that once dotted the Catskills landscape.