Typically referred to as the “Houghtaling House” or “Richter House,” this historic home in Hurley, New York, was built by Willem Van Vredenburgh in 1715. Willem sold the house to Gerrit Constapel on December 21, 1720.

Gerrit was the oldest son of Egbert Constapel, the first in our family to use the “Constable” surname.

The original cottage was about half the length of the current structure — everything to the right of the front door today. The original front door was likely located where the farthest-right window exists today.

Gerrit made substantial additions to the property within a year of buying it. He worked as a weaver, and operated out of his father Egbert’s house during the previous three years. Now in his own home, he needed space for his loom and other materials for the business.

His solution was to build a second structure immediately next to the original cottage. This building was later connected to the cottage where the current front door exists.

It is believed that Gerrit’s weaving shop was the first commercial building constructed in Hurley.

The house is located at 193 Old Route 209, Hurley, New York 12443 and is currently owned by William Hutton.