The Heart Of Hudson Valley’s Rural Communities In 19 Photos By Susan Anthony

A Project Born From Curiosity And Connection

For years, Susan Anthony spent time in the Hudson Valley as a weekender and homeowner. Yet, like many visitors, she mostly knew other New Yorkers who shared that lifestyle. She had little opportunity to meet those who grew up and lived their whole lives in the region.

That changed during the pandemic. With her camera in hand, Anthony began walking along the roads near her home, stopping to meet and photograph local residents. One introduction led to another, and soon she had formed genuine bonds within the community.

“Eventually, I decided to create a project about the people I met. Now, as some of these individuals have become friends, I continue to meet others whose families have lived in this area for many generations.”

Documenting Generations Of Families

What began as spontaneous encounters has grown into a profound exploration of rural life. Anthony became close with a family who homeschooled nine children—three still living at home and the others now married or spread across the county. Through them, she was introduced to more families, including another mother of nine living on a farm half an hour away.

Each introduction expands her network, giving her access to a thriving and interconnected rural community.

“Then, I meet their friends and their families, and I have an ever-growing community of people to photograph. I feel like a kid in a candy store.”

More Than Photography: A Living Archive

Anthony describes herself as a documentarian, someone who captures communities over long periods of time. Her approach is not just about images, but about relationships—building trust, listening to stories, and preserving a way of life that might otherwise remain invisible to outsiders.