The Thomas Cole National Historic Site is the home and workplace of the artist Thomas Cole (1801-1848), founder of America's first major art movement, the Hudson River School of landscape painting. The 1815 Main House and 1839 Old Studio are open for tours, and the organization offers programs and events throughout the year including guided hikes to the scenic locations where Cole found inspiration for his paintings. Our mission is to preserve and interpret the home and studios of Thomas Cole, the founder of the Hudson River School of painting, the nation's first art movement. Cole's profound influence on America's cultural landscape inspires us to engage broad audiences through innovative educational programs that are relevant today.