Mohonk Artworks Restoration Project (Part 1)
Updated January 8, 2026
At Mohonk Mountain House, history isn’t just something you read about; it’s something you experience. From the charming furniture in the parlors to the sweeping views of Lake Mohonk, every corner of our Victorian castle resort whispers stories of the past. Among these treasured features, our historic artwork holds a special place, capturing both the beauty of the surrounding landscape and the legacy of the Smiley family, who built and nurtured this place for more than 150 years.
We welcome guests to take a step behind the scenes to learn more about our ongoing preservation work. Our artworks restoration project began in March 2017 with the help of local artisan Debra Perry Scott. “I am a local gal, with roots of more than 8 generations in Ulster & Greene counties. I have been active as a traditional Decorative Painter and artisan for over 25 years. I have been blessed to have the chance to weave a bit of my heart and soul into the artwork here, and I’m so grateful for the honor of being part of Mohonk’s story.”
Many of the artworks at Mohonk were selected by founders Albert, Eliza, Daniel, and Effie Smiley between 1880 and 1910 as they furnished and embellished the growing resort. The frames themselves were often crafted on-site, and paint selections were made using materials that were available at the time. This means each piece reflects not only artistic expression but also the resourcefulness and vision of the Smiley family, making them a living record of Mohonk’s origins.
Restoration is slow, meticulous work, a process that involves assessing layers of paint, repairing and replacing worn elements, and honoring the original craftsmanship wherever possible. Debra’s approach is both technical and sentimental: she often leaves small historical imperfections intact as a tribute to the artwork’s lived life, recognizing that these tiny details are part of the piece’s narrative. “Honoring the story that’s there, the wear and tear that it has, is important,” she shared, noting that the goal is to preserve these works so they can continue to tell their stories for another hundred years.
Over the course of just three weeks, Debra completed restoration on about 800 historic pieces, an extraordinary effort that speaks to both Mohonk’s deep artistic heritage and our ongoing commitment to preservation. Typically, it takes 2-3 days to complete the restoration process for each individual artwork, as repairing and replacing pieces is done methodically in layers. Each restored work becomes a bridge between past and present, allowing guests to feel connected to the people, ideas, and inspirations that shaped our New Paltz resort years ago.
Our restoration project began in March 2017 with “The Goddess of Mohonk” mirror, which is one of Debra’s favorites and also one of the most challenging. “The Goddess of Mohonk” is actually a nickname given by staff to the cherub-cheeked face, as she appears to gently watch over you as you go by.
This project is more than a historical artifact rescue. It is a testament to Mohonk’s belief in the enduring value of art, memory, and place. When you walk the grand halls of our historic Catskill resort or linger in our lounges where these paintings and mirrors hang, you’re not just taking in décor, you’re entering a world of stories that have unfolded here for generations. Restoring these pieces ensures that future visitors will share in the same sense of discovery and connection.
As the next phase of the restoration looks ahead to spaces like the Smiley Family Parlor, the project continues to unfold in ways that deepen appreciation for Mohonk’s living history. So the next time you visit, take a moment to look more closely at the art on the walls. Each brushstroke and gilded edge carries the spirit of the past, preserved for you, for now, and for the future.
Learn more about the history of Mohonk Mountain House today!
