Rosendale cement generally refers to a type of natural
cement that was produced in and around
Rosendale, New York, from
argillaceous limestone, but is a term that has had different definitions at different times. The fast-setting Rosendale natural cement mortars proved to be more efficient than the mortars based on lime and sand. Because of its reputation, Rosendale cement has also been used as both a trade name and as a generic term referring to natural hydraulic cements produced elsewhere. It was used in the construction of many of the
United States' most important landmarks, including the
Brooklyn Bridge, the pedestal of the
Statue of Liberty,
Federal Hall, and one of the wings of the
United States Capitol building.