Still Awake, Despite the Name

The Rip Van Winkle Bridge in New York State

The Rip Van Winkle bridge, named after the Washington Irving character, connects Columbia and Greene counties across the Hudson River in New York. This photo was taken in May 2010 from one of the porches of the house of artist Frederick Church at the Olana State Historic Site. Church (1826-1900), was a major figure in the Hudson River School of landscape painting, and a well-known 19th century American artist. The house was built in a Persian-inspired style, sitting on top of a hill overlooking the Hudson River.

The bridge, carrying the route of NY 23, was completed in 1935.