Our journey began with a drive up the Hudson Valley to Sleepy Hollow Cemetery.
This place feels like it’s been pulled straight out of a gothic novel. It’s where Washington Irving, the author of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” and Leona Helmsley, the infamous “Queen of Mean,” are buried.
Table of Contents
The Mystique of Sleepy Hollow Cemetery
There’s something about Sleepy Hollow Cemetery that feels magical.
Washington Irving, laid to rest here in 1859, is best known for his tale of Ichabod Crane and the Headless Horseman. The story has become a cornerstone of American folklore. Visiting Irving’s grave feels like stepping into the very pages of his work. Irving wasn’t just a storyteller; he played a big role in shaping American literature.
He also had a hand in popularizing the modern image of Santa Claus, thanks to his portrayal of St. Nicholas in “Knickerbocker’s History of New York.”
Exploring Hartford’s History
After leaving Sleepy Hollow, we headed to Hartford, Connecticut.
We arrived in the evening and decided to take a walk around the city. Hartford’s architecture is something else. The skyline is dotted with buildings that seem frozen in time.
The Connecticut State Capitol is a standout. Its golden dome and intricate facade make it one of the finest examples of High Victorian Gothic architecture. Built between 1871 and 1878, the Capitol is not just a government building—it’s a symbol of Hartford’s rich past.
The architect, Richard M. Upjohn, blended Gothic and Renaissance elements to create a imposing and beautiful structure.
An Unexpected Change in Plans
Unfortunately, our trip took an unexpected turn.
We both started feeling sick—likely the flu or COVID—so we had to cut our plans short. We missed out on visiting Boston, but we made it back to Jersey City safely, even as we navigated through some serious flooding in Danbury, Connecticut.
Despite these challenges, the trip was memorable.
We connected with history, admired stunning architecture, and experienced moments that reminded us why we love to travel.
Even though we didn’t make it to Boston, the journey left us with plenty of stories to tell.
