History in the Catskill Mountains

Catskill Mountain House - Discussion and images of the Catskill Mountain House that once existing on the Eastern Escarpment of the Catskill Mountains. Was located near Anvil Ledge east of North/South Lake. Built in 1824, and intentionally burned to the ground by the NYS DEC on January 25, 1963. Considered one of the best hotels in the world in the 1800's. Visited by three US Presidents.

Kaaterskill Hotel - Discussion and images of the Kaaterskill Hotel that once existing on the top of South Mountain. Was located south of North/South Lake. Built in 1881, and accidently burned to the ground by a worker after the summer season September 11, 1924. Considered one of the best hotels in the world in the late 1800's and early 1900's. Had 1,200 rooms and a spectacular view of the Kaaterskill Clove and Mountain Range. It even had it's own zip code.

Laurel House - Discussion and images of the Laurel House that once existing on the west side of North/South Lake. Built in 1852, and intentionally burned to the ground by the NY DEC on March 1, 1967. Was built as a boarding house, and they charged half of what Catskill Mountain House and Kaaterskill Hotel charged. Had a spectacular view from the top of Kaaterskill Falls.

Lotowana Story of the legend of a beautiful Mohank Indian Princess named Lotowana and father, Chief Shandaken. They lived in the North and South Lakes region. The story involves a love triangle between an Egyptian Prince, a Mohawk Indian Chief, and a Mohawk Indian Princess named Lotowana. The story occured in the 1600’s.

Rip Van Winkle House Discussion and images of the old Rip Van Winkle House in the Catskill Mountains. Built in 1845, and burned to the ground around 1918. The small building (shanty) was the first building built. In 1867 the large house was built. When the Otis Railway was built the house didn't have a purpose and fell into disrepair. It is said that artist Thomas Cole painted a picture of Rip Van Winkle above the door.

Region History Discussion and images of regional history of the Catskill Mountains. Discussion of the Kaaterskill Mountain Range.