K 348: Commemorating the 200th Anniversary of the Elephant Hotel

 Assembly Resolution No. 348 BY: M. of A. Slater COMMEMORATING the 200th Anniversary of the Elephant Hotel WHEREAS, The year 2025 marks the Bicentennial of the Elephant Hotel, a landmark of significant historical and cultural importance, in Somers, New York; and WHEREAS, The Elephant Hotel was constructed between 1820 and 1825 by Hachaliah Bailey, a pioneer in American circus history, to commemorate his African elephant, "Old Bet," whose exhibitions contributed to the genesis of the American circus industry; and WHEREAS, The Elephant Hotel has served various pivotal roles in the community, including functioning as an inn, serving as the Somers Town Hall, and housing the Somers Historical Society and the Museum of the Early American Circus; and WHEREAS, The preservation of the Elephant Hotel, recognized as a National Historic Landmark since 2005, offers educational opportunities and fosters appreciation for the rich heritage of the Town of Somers and the broader American narrative; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body honor and celebrate the 200th Anniversary of the Elephant Hotel, acknowledge its profound impact on the cultural and historical landscape, and commend the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote this esteemed landmark for future generations.