The Kate Mullany National Historic Site is open by appointment Monday through Friday. Call 518-331-4474 to schedule a visit. The site officially opened to the public on June 10, 2023, but it does not have regular visiting hours yet.
The Kate Mullany National Historic Site is currently closed for restoration and does not have admission fees available at this time.
From Albany, take I-87 North to NY-7 East, then head to 8th Street in Troy, just off the Collar City Bridge, to discover a historic gem of labor history.
Limited street parking available near 350 8th Street, Troy, NY. No dedicated parking lot or RV parking. No overnight parking. No fees mentioned. Motorcycle parking on street.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
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In the heart of Troy, New York, the Kate Mullany National Historic Site stands as a testament to the pioneering spirit of labor leader Kate Mullany. Located at 350 Eighth Street, this historic site is more than just a building; it is a celebration of women’s rights and labor history.
The site is housed in a beautifully restored Italianate-style building constructed in 1869, its exterior and third-floor apartment meticulously preserved to reflect the era. The home, part of a three-story, six-apartment building, is set amidst a yard landscaped with period-appropriate plantings, evoking the simplicity and elegance of the 19th century.
Kate Mullany, a young Irish immigrant, made history here by forming America’s first all-female union, the Troy Collar Laundry Union, in 1864. Her leadership in a successful strike that year secured higher wages and better working conditions for the predominantly Irish female workforce. This legacy is commemorated through a memorial to trade union women pioneers planned for the site.
Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1998 and a National Historic Site in 2004, the Kate Mullany House was dedicated by former First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton. It is now part of the New York State Women’s Heritage Trail, a journey through the state’s most significant women’s history sites.
Visitors can explore the historically restored apartment and stairwell, gaining a glimpse into the life of this groundbreaking leader. The site is administered by the American Labor Studies Center, which ensures its preservation and educational value. While the site is not open for regular visits, appointments can be made, offering a unique and intimate experience for those interested in labor history and women’s rights.
Nearby, the city of Troy boasts charming artisan shops and historic landmarks, including the Collar City Bridge, which adds to the rich cultural tapestry of the area. For those seeking a deeper connection to the region’s history, a visit to St. Peter’s Cemetery to see Kate Mullany’s grave, marked by a 12-foot Celtic Cross, is a poignant addition to any itinerary.
- Area (mi²)
- 0.1
- Established year
- 2004
Top 3 Facts about Kate Mullany National Historic Site
The historic house, built in 1869, is part of a three-story, six-apartment building and includes a restored third-floor apartment, stairwell, and exterior back stairway, with the yard landscaped with period-appropriate planting. The restoration was completed in late 2019.
This historic site, while primarily focused on the legacy of a pioneering labor leader, is set within a landscape that reflects the era of its significance. The yard is landscaped with period-appropriate plantings, evoking the simple yet vibrant gardens of the late 19th century. The surrounding area, part of the broader Hudson-Mohawk region, is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds such as the American goldfinch and the red-winged blackbird, and fish in the nearby rivers like the Hudson River’s striped bass and catfish. The flora includes native species like black cherry and pin oak, adding a natural beauty to the site’s historic charm.
In the vicinity of this historic site, the Hudson River flows with a serene elegance, its waters a deep azure that reflects the sky above. The river’s banks are lined with the remnants of industrial heritage, juxtaposed with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Nearby, the Taconic Mountains rise, their peaks reaching elevations of over 2,000 feet, offering a dramatic backdrop to this storied area.
Family programs
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit in spring for the Labor History Weekend event. Plan a half-day trip, parking is available on site. Explore the restored home and exhibits, then rest and dine in nearby Troy. Wear comfortable shoes for walking on paved paths. Limited on-site food options.【Condé Nast Traveller】
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for changing weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a waterproof jacket. Bring a daypack with essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. For camping, include a tent, sleeping bag, and multi-tool. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the urban habitat by disposing of trash properly and avoiding disturbance to local flora. Be mindful of seasonal changes and keep noise levels down to preserve the area’s integrity. Leave the site in the same or better condition than you found it.
Stay Informed
Exercise caution on trails and near ledges, and be aware of weather conditions. Stay informed about fire restrictions and other rules. For emergencies, call park authorities at 911 or the park’s emergency number. Wear appropriate footwear and supervise children closely.
Seasons
In spring, when temperatures rise to the 60s and 70s, visit this historic site to immerse in labor history. June’s grand opening ceremony and Kate Mullany Week events make it a perfect time to explore, despite occasional rain showers. Mild weather and vibrant events make spring an ideal time to visit.
Visit in summer for warm temperatures (70s-80s°F) and vibrant events. Attend the “Rising Worker Power in Troy and Cohoes” lecture in June or the “Don’t Iron While the Strike is Hot” musical performance, celebrating a pioneering labor leader amidst historic charm. Ideal for history enthusiasts and labor movement buffs.
Visit in fall, when crisp temperatures (40s-60s°F) and vibrant foliage enhance the historic charm. Attend the annual Labor History Month events in September and October, celebrating the legacy of a pioneering labor activist amidst the cozy autumn atmosphere.
Visit in winter (Dec-Feb) for a serene, snowy backdrop, with temperatures often below 32°F. While the site is closed for restoration, the exterior’s historic charm and period landscaping remain striking, though indoor tours are not available. Bundle up for a poignant outdoor visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Kate Mullany National Historic Site has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the Kate Mullany National Historic Site is Troy, New York. It is located at 350 8th Street in Troy, just off NY 7. Troy is where Kate Mullany, an early female labor leader, started the all-women Collar Laundry Union in 1864.
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Dogs are not allowed at this site. It is not pet-friendly. Visitors must adhere to this rule to maintain the historic integrity of the area.
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There is no specific information available about parking facilities at the site, including whether it can accommodate RVs, campers, or trailers. Visitors may need to check the site’s website or contact them directly for parking details.
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The Kate Mullany National Historic Site commemorates the organization of the first all-female labor union, the Collar Laundry Union, in February 1864. Led by Kate Mullany and Esther Keegan, approximately 300 women laundry workers in Troy, New York, went on a five-day strike to demand higher wages, resulting in a significant wage increase after their employers capitulated to their demands. This event marked a pivotal moment in the labor movement.