The Enigmatic Lost Towns of the Hudson Valley

Have you ever wondered what lies beneath the picturesque landscapes of the Hudson Valley? The region, known for its breathtaking views and historical significance, hides a fascinating secret within its hills and valleys – lost towns that have been forgotten over time.

Unearthing History

As you stroll through the charming towns and scenic trails of the Hudson Valley, it's hard to believe that there were once thriving communities that have now vanished. These ghost towns hold the stories of early settlers, failed industries, and mysterious disappearances.

Lost Towns of the Hudson Valley

by Wesley Gottlock (Illustrated Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11417 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	206 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

1. Doodletown

Doodletown, located near Bear Mountain in Rockland County, was once a vibrant community settled in the early 18th century. The town derived its peculiar name from a resident's habit of doodling while preaching. This small village thrived for centuries until it was slowly abandoned during the 1960s to make way for the expansion of Bear Mountain State Park.

Walking through the remnants of Doodletown, you can almost feel the echoes of the past. Overgrown trails lead to dilapidated houses, rusted farm equipment, and an abandoned school. The eerie atmosphere serves as a constant reminder of what once was.

2. Cornwallis

Located along the scenic Hudson River, Cornwallis was a bustling trading center during the American Revolution. It played a vital role in supplying troops and acted as a strategic military outpost. However, as time passed, the town's significance waned, and it gradually vanished from the collective memory of the Hudson Valley.

Today, all that remains of Cornwallis are a few crumbling foundation stones and weathered tombstones in an overgrown cemetery. The remnants offer a glimpse into the past and spark curiosity about the lives of the once-thriving community.

3. Freetown

Once a thriving African American settlement, Freetown was founded in the early 19th century as a refuge for freed slaves seeking a better life. The town flourished for several decades until it gradually declined due to economic struggles and the effects of racial segregation.

Walking through the silent streets of Freetown, you can't help but imagine the vibrant community it once was. The spirit of resilience and hope still lingers in the forgotten houses, churches, and graveyards.

Preserving Forgotten Tales

The lost towns of the Hudson Valley serve as a stark reminder of the impermanence of human settlements. These enigmatic remnants hold historical value and offer glimpses into the past that few get to witness. Preservation efforts are underway to protect and document these forgotten places to ensure their stories endure for future generations.

Explorers, historians, and local communities are working together to unravel the mysteries surrounding these lost towns. Through archaeological excavations, oral histories, and meticulous research, they aim to piece together the puzzle of the Hudson Valley's forgotten past.

The lost towns of the Hudson Valley present a captivating opportunity to glimpse into history's forgotten chapters. From the peculiar Doodletown to the strategic Cornwallis and the resilient Freetown, each lost town has its own unique story waiting to be discovered. These remnants evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity, reminding us of the transient nature of human existence and the powerful legacy we leave behind.

So, next time you find yourself wandering through the scenic beauty of the Hudson Valley, take a moment to imagine the hidden stories beneath your feet, waiting to be unearthed.

Lost Towns of the Hudson Valley

by Wesley Gottlock (Illustrated Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11417 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	206 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Did you know a town can vanish? Discover the curious history of five towns nearly lost to history...

This is the story of five towns located in New York's Hudson River Valley that met their demise as quickly as they were established. From the icehouses of Rockland Lake to the Ashokan Reservoir towns to the brick quarries of Roseton, only traces of these once vibrant settlements can now be found. Camp Shanks, one of World War II's most significant military compounds, was erected in 1942 but was quickly abandoned at the war's end. "Last Stop USA," as it was known, played host to over one million soldiers and welcomed patriotic visitors like Frank Sinatra and Shirley Temple. In this collection of images, local authors Wesley and Barbara Gottlock revive the spirits of these bygone communities and celebrate a lost way of life.