Bannerman Castle Trust

As of right now, we still have some tickets available for evening tours of Bannerman Island tomorrow, Thursday and Friday!

NEIL CAPLAN THANKS DUTCHESS COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY FOR DUTCHESS AWARD HONOR

On May 31, 2026, I was deeply honored to be recognized by the Dutchess County Historical Society with the Dutchess Award for exceptional contributions to the Dutchess County community. I cannot thank the Historical Society enough for this tremendous honor.

More than 32 years ago, I joined with Thom Johnson, Susan Andersen, Dr. Sheila McManus, Robert McKenna, Evelyn P***n, Virginia Donovan, Len Warner, Mike McCormack, John Lanc, Alison McAvery, Jane McLaughlin, Fred Osborn III, Rob Doyle, Barbara Gottlock, Wes Gottlock, and Jane Bannerman—the granddaughter-in-law of Frank Bannerman VI and my wife, Darlene Swann—to establish the Bannerman Castle Trust, Inc. Together, we shared a vision of preserving and protecting one of the Hudson Valley’s most remarkable historic landmarks.

To be recognized with this award is truly rewarding. However, this recognition belongs not only to me but to the many individuals who have devoted their time, talent, and passion to the preservation of Bannerman Island. Projects of this magnitude are never accomplished by one person—they require the dedication of an entire community.

Over the years, countless people have contributed to the success of the Bannerman Castle Trust and the preservation of Bannerman Island. I would especially like to recognize Kelly Ellenwood, Deputy Executive Director; Laurie Clark, Bannerman Gallery Director; our outstanding staff, including Mary Babcock, Paul Kluckman, Captain John Antinori, Blakemore,John Morzen and Johan Ayoob; as well as contractors Aric Morgan of Masonry Plus and Lars Lindbergh. In addition, hundreds of volunteers, donors, supporters, board members, tour guides, and preservation advocates have played an essential role in helping us protect and share Bannerman Island’s history with future generations.

I proudly share this award with everyone who has contributed to this effort over the past three decades. Thank you to the Dutchess County Historical Society for this extraordinary honor and for your continued commitment to preserving the rich history of Dutchess County.

Sincerely,

Neil Caplan
Executive Director and Founder
The Bannerman Castle Trust, Inc.

Photos: Judge Peter Forman presenting Neil Caplan with Award
John Mousseau, Kelly Ellenwood, Neil Caplan, Darlene Swann and Laurie Clark

Join us on Friday for Movie Night on Bannerman Island: Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid!

We just added an evening tour of Bannerman Island tomorrow at 5:30!

As of right now, we have some tickets available for this evening's tour of Bannerman Island, departing at 6pm from Beacon!

We are proud to announce that Neil J. Caplan, Founder and Executive Director of The Bannerman Castle Trust, is being honored with the DCHS Dutchess Award. This recognition highlights his dedication to preserving Hudson Valley history and revitalizing Pollepel Island. Join us for the Historic Preservation & Awards Celebration on May 31, 2026, at the Brinckerhoff Inn. If you cannot attend, consider supporting the DCHS or the Bannerman Castle Trust in Neil's honor.

https://www.bannermancastle.org
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Celebrating a Local Visionary: BCT Executive Director Neil Caplan Honored by DCHS! Email from Bannerman Castle Trust Join us on May 31st as the Dutchess County Historical Society recognizes the founder of the Bannerman Castle Trust Dear Friends, We are thrilled to announce that Neil

Here's your chance to visit the nearly restored "Grotto," a hidden gem on Bannerman Island!

Join us on Wednesday and Thursday evenings this season for our BRAND NEW Discount Tours of Bannerman Island, and get exclusive access to this part of the island that was previously off limits to the public!