Historical society presenter traces 125-year dahlia tradition in Wappinger

A presenter representing a local historical society recounted the origins of the Wappinger Dahlia Show, saying the tradition traces back to dahlias brought from England by early growers. The presenter described late-19th- and early-20th-century displays in the area associated with Harold Cottom and noted some local place names tied to that history.

The presenter also described historical materials on display, including a Revolutionary War-era book and an accompanying map that points to local burial sites such as the New Hackensack Cemetery. The remarks mixed horticultural anecdotes (including references to the so-called "black dahlia" anecdote) with recommendations for guests to consult society records for further local history.