Project Overview

Often called "New York's Mount Rushmore," Pratt Rock stands as a lasting symbol of American innovation, perseverance, and remembrance. Carved into the Catskill Mountains, it is credited by some as the nation's first Civil War memorials; a tribute that has drawn visitors from around the world for over a century. But time and weather have taken their toll. Season after season, erosion chips away at this historic landmark, with some experts projecting that without urgent action, this irreplaceable piece of our national story could quite literally wash away within the next 10 to 15 years.

Please click here to see our comprehensive plan to save Pratt Rock!

How Are We Funding This Ambitious Project?

Grants

The Town of Prattsville has been working closely with state and private partners to secure funding for the rehabilitation of Pratt Rock Park. By highlighting the landmark’s deep cultural and historical significance to both to our community and to the nation, we’ve successfully raised the initial funds needed to launch this important restoration effort. We are currently in the process of pursuing more grant opportunities as they become available. 

 

Fundraising

The Zadock Pratt Museum in conjunction with our local volunteer group: Friends of Historic Prattsville have been hard at work planning and holding fundraisers to benefit our park. These fundraisers have the added benefit of attracting visitors to Prattsville and enticing community involvement.  For a list of upcoming events, click here. 

 

Donations

We are fortunate to have local businesses and individuals willing to donate to this important cause. Contributions by individuals such as yourself are the bedrock of this project. These donations fund administrative costs such as paid, professional grant writers, seed money for fundraisers, and help us close the gap in funding that can make or break this project. Please, consider making a donation to help us protect our history. 

Project Updates

Last updated 4-13-2025

Final contract documents for the landscaping phase and stone conservation phase have been completed. Sufficient funds have been raised to proceed towards the next milestone- the reestablishment of the walking trails, stone walls, and landscaping. 

Several local contractors have shown an interest in being part of this upcoming phase and are prepared to submit bids once solicitation begins. A deadline for bid submissions will be set shortly. The target start date for this work is set for Fall 2025. 

The next priority will be the restoration work for the stone carvings (likely the most expensive phase) and we are pursuing every avenue available to secure funding

Our volunteer group continues to plan fundraisers for 2025, stay tuned for updates.