Founder

Incorporated in 1869 in Brooklyn, New York, The Baptist Home began as the dream of an umbrella-maker named Alexander MacDonald who sought to create "a place of refuge for those whose advancing age and meager incomes make independent living difficult."

Alexander MacDonald was a poor boy who grew up to earn his fortune making umbrellas. As his wealth grew, so did his compassion. Together with Francis Mason, another poor boy who had made his fortune in the construction business, these laymen provided $5,000 in cash and valuable lots of property in Brooklyn, NY. They sought and received the faithful support of local churches, which has continued throughout the years, and in 1869 The Baptist Home of Brooklyn became a safe haven for people whose advancing age and meager income made independent living difficult. The people sheltered there, on the corner of Throop and Greene Streets, became “Family” with each other and the caring staff.

While care and compassion remained the heart of The Baptist Home, after many years, the original structure became inadequate and the neighborhood was not as quiet and friendly as it had once been. The board of Managers, with the support of the local churches, purchased land sixty-five miles north in the picturesque village of Rhinebeck. In 1977, after completion of their new “home”, the Resident Family made the long journey to the new Baptist Home.