One-legged tap dancing sensation Clayton “Peg Leg” Bates became one of the first Black resort owners in 1951, when he opened the Peg Leg Bates Country Club in Kerhonkson, New York. In its heyday, it was the summer hot spot for Black Americans and offered 110 rental units, a nightclub, a roller disco rink, tennis courts, picnic grounds and a spacious swimming pool. It was featured in the Green Book. Bates was quoted in a New York Times article, "While you’re here, you are secure, you are protected.” Source
The resort closed in 1987. In Bates’ will, he requested that the resort be sold only to a Black owner. His wish was fulfilled when Doreen Richardson purchased the property and reopened it as the Mountain Valley Resort.
Unfortunately, she passed away while doing repairs at the hotel and the state took over. It has been sitting vacant since. There were plans for the resort to be leveled this year and replaced by Rocky Hill Farm. I’m not sure if this has actually happened yet.
The Google Street View screenshots pictured are from 2012. Updated 2020 photos can be found here. Read more about the resort’s history here and here.
