Town: Rock Hill
Artist: Laurie Kilgore
About: This beautifully painted dove sculpture stands as a welcoming beacon at the entrance of Crystal Run Healthcare’s Rock Hill Medical Center, which provides comprehensive healthcare services to the residents of Sullivan County. Established in 2004, this facility has been essential in providing comprehensive healthcare services to the residents of Sullivan County, recognizing a critical need for local healthcare in the Town of Thompson. The vibrant dove, adorned with musical instruments and swirling artistic patterns, serves as an artistic celebration of harmony, healing, and community spirit at this important healthcare destination.
Address: 283 Rock Hill Drive
Rock Hill, NY 12775
Location: Town of Thompson – Hamlet of Rock Hill
Rock Hill is a hamlet and census-designated place in Sullivan County, New York, United States, with a population of 2,369 as recorded in the 2020 census. Located in the town of Thompson by New York State Route 17, the hamlet of Rock Hill was not officially named until October 1885. This charming community represents the quiet, rural character that defines much of Sullivan County in the lower Catskill region.
The community has grown modestly over recent years, with the population increasing from 2,384 to 2,530 between 2022 and 2023, representing a 6.12% increase. Rock Hill offers residents a rural feel, with most residents owning their homes, and attracts both young professionals and retirees. The area maintains a diverse demographic composition, with 70.4% White, 11.26% other race, 5.85% Black or African American, and 4.55% Asian residents.
Economically, Rock Hill demonstrates stability and prosperity within the region. The community boasts an average per capita income of $65,000 and a median household income of $105,750, reflecting a comfortable standard of living for its residents. This economic foundation supports the community’s access to quality healthcare services and cultural amenities like the dove trail art installations.
Rock Hill’s location along New York State Route 17 provides convenient access to the broader Hudson Valley and lower Catskill regions, making it an ideal spot for those seeking small-town charm with accessibility to urban amenities. The presence of healthcare facilities like Crystal Run Healthcare demonstrates the community’s commitment to providing essential services to both local residents and the surrounding Sullivan County area.
For more detailed information about Rock Hill’s history and governance, visit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rock_Hill,_New_York
Artist: Laurie Kilgore
Painting is Laurie Kilgore’s passion and what drives and motivates her. Her love for art started at a young age, but didn’t fully pursue it until her early 20s. Laurie has been painting and creating works of Art for the past eighteen years. Born and raised in Monticello, NY, she has been an active artist, painter and art educator in Sullivan County. She graduated with her B.S. in Art Education and a Masters in Studio Art with a focus in Painting from SUNY New Paltz.
Over the years Laurie participated in several group and solo exhibitions, and public art projects. They include the Thesis Show Ten, in Poughkeepsie, Roark’s Tavern in Monticello, Art Among the Vines at Basha Kill Vineyard in Wurtsboro, NY. This past year, as in years prior, she has displayed her work at group shows through the Catskill Art Society in Livingston Manor and Tivolli Artists Gallery Co-Op in Tivolli, NY. She has two solo art shows: The Basha Kill Series Paintings at Rolling River Café in 2016, in Parksville, NY, and one at Aroma Thyme Bistro in Ellenville in 2018. Laurie has created Public Art Murals throughout parts of Sullivan County, in Hurleyville, Monticello, Town of Thompson and Rock Hill, NY. Several of these murals, signs and outdoor paintings were for Sullivan Renaissance Projects. Those projects include outdoor murals on the main street of Rock Hill, NY, paintings at Roark’s Tavern in Monticello, a series of signs and outdoor murals for the Town of Thompson Park and historical murals at the Sullivan County Historical Museum in Hurleyville. Laurie currently teaches Art for the Monticello Central School District and Nesin Cultural Arts, and creates various works of art in her studio, through her business Kilgore Artistry in Monticello, NY.
Places to Eat
- Bernie’s Holiday Restaurant (Rock Hill, NY)
A long-standing local favorite offering steaks, seafood, and American classics in a rustic yet upscale setting. - Crust Italian Eatery (Rock Hill, NY)
A modern pizzeria and Italian restaurant featuring artisan pizzas, pasta dishes, and cocktails. - Dutch’s Tavern (Rock Hill, NY)
A casual neighborhood bar and grill known for burgers, wings, and friendly service. - Rock Hill Diner (Rock Hill, NY)
A family-friendly diner with hearty breakfast options, comfort food, and daily specials.
Places to Stay
- Ramada by Wyndham Rock Hill at Sullivan Center (Rock Hill, NY)
Convenient accommodations with modern amenities, fitness center, and easy access to Route 17. - Inn at Lake Joseph (Forestburgh area)
An elegant country inn set by a private lake, offering both traditional guest rooms and rustic cabins with outdoor recreation. - The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark (Monticello area)
A family-friendly resort with hotel rooms, multiple dining options, an indoor waterpark, and entertainment just minutes away.
Places to Explore
- Rock Hill Farmers Market (Rock Hill, NY)
A seasonal outdoor market with local produce, baked goods, crafts, and live music. - Lake Louise Marie (Rock Hill, NY)
A serene lake popular for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and scenic walks. - Holiday Mountain Ski & Fun Park (Monticello area)
A recreation area offering skiing and snowboarding in winter, plus go-karts, mini golf, and rides in warmer months. - Hurleyville Rail Trail (Hurleyville area)
A paved and accessible multi-use trail perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying Sullivan County’s natural beauty.
Dove photos by Paul Henshaw