Saratoga, And How To See It - free ebook by R. F. Dearborn

Read as playlist

Saratoga, And How To See It

R. F. Dearborn

89 chapters

4 hour read

Read as playlist

Selected Chapters

89 chapters

Lung, Female and Various Chronic Diseases.

Lung, Female and Various Chronic Diseases.

During the Fall and Winter the Institute has been doubled in size to meet the necessities of its increased patronage. It is now the largest health institution in Saratoga, and is unsurpassed in the variety or its remedial appliances by any in this country. In the elegance and completeness of its appointments, it is unequaled. The building is heated by steam, so that in the coldest weather the air of the house is like that of Summer. The proprietors, Drs. S.S. and S.E. Strong, are graduates of th

34 minute read

Read Chapter

THE EQUALIZER OR VACUUM TREATMENT, ELECTRO THERMAL BATHS, SULPHUR AIR BATHS, RUSSIAN BATHS, TURKISH BATHS, HYDROPATHY, SWEDISH MOVEMENT CURE, Oxygen Gas, Gymnastics, &c, &c.

THE EQUALIZER OR VACUUM TREATMENT, ELECTRO THERMAL BATHS, SULPHUR AIR BATHS, RUSSIAN BATHS, TURKISH BATHS, HYDROPATHY, SWEDISH MOVEMENT CURE, Oxygen Gas, Gymnastics, &c, &c.

For particulars of the Institution, call or send for Circulars on Lung, Female and Chronic Diseases and on our Appliances. Address...

13 minute read

Read Chapter

INTRODUCTION.

INTRODUCTION.

The design of this work is not to give a history of the village of Saratoga. That, as well as a more elaborate description of the geology of the county, may be found in a very interesting book, published several years since, by R.L. Allen , M.D., entitled the "Hand Book of Saratoga and Stranger's Guide." We acknowledge our indebtedness to the work for several items in regard to the history of the Springs. Our thanks are due also to Prof. C.H. Chandler , Ph.D., of the Columbia School of Mines, fo

48 minute read

Read Chapter

THE Mineral Springs of Saratoga.

THE Mineral Springs of Saratoga.

The region of Mineral Springs in Eastern New York consists of a long, shallow and crescent-shaped valley, extending northeast from Ballston, its western horn, to Quaker Springs, its eastern extremity. The entire valley abounds in mineral fountains of more or less merit, and in the central portion bubble up the Waters of Healing, which have given to Saratoga its world-wide celebrity. Professor Chandler , of the Columbia School of Mines, thus describes the...

22 minute read

Read Chapter

Geology of the County.

Geology of the County.

"Beginning with the uppermost, the rocks of Saratoga county are: 1. The Hudson river and Utica shales and slates. 2. The Trenton limestone. 3. The calciferous sand rock, which is a silicious limestone. 4. The Potsdam sand stone; and 5. The Laurentian formation of gneiss and granite, of unknown thickness. "The northern half of the county is occupied by the elevated ranges of Laurentian rocks; flanking these occur the Potsdam, Calciferous and Trenton beds, which appear in succession in parallel ba

7 minute read

Read Chapter

General Properties.

General Properties.

Writers upon mineral springs generally divide them into the following classes: Carbonated or acidulous, saline, chalybeate or iron, alkaline, sulphur or hepatic, bitter and thermal springs. The Saratoga waters embrace nearly all of these except the last two; some of the springs being saline, some chalybeate, some sulphur, and nearly all carbonated; and in the list may be found cathartic, alterative, diuretic and tonic waters of varied shade and differing strength. The cathartic waters are the mo

40 minute read

Read Chapter

The Discovery of the Springs.

The Discovery of the Springs.

All the older springs have been found in beds of blue marl, or clay rather, which cover the valley more or less throughout its whole extent. On digging into this clay to any considerable depth, we are pretty certain to find traces of mineral water. In some places, at the depth of six or eight feet, it has been discovered issuing from a fissure or seam in the underlying limestone, while at other places it seems to proceed from a thin stratum of quicksand which is found to alternate with the marl

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Are the Springs Natural?

Are the Springs Natural?

Is a question that will probably seem absurd to those who are at all familiar with mineral springs or Saratoga waters. Nevertheless, it is a not unfrequent and amusing occurrence to hear remarks from strangers and greenies who have a preconceived notion that the springs are doctored, and that a mixture of salts, etc., is tipped in every night or early in the morning! Strange that the art should be limited to the village of Saratoga! The incredulity of some people is the most ridiculous credulity

48 minute read

Read Chapter

The Commercial Value

The Commercial Value

Of the various springs differs as widely as does people's estimate of their individual merits. Spring water property is very expensive. It costs large sums of money to manage some of the springs. The old method of tubing, by sinking a curb, may cost several thousand dollars, and is uncertain then. Moreover, it is no small work to keep the springs in perfect repair, and in a clean and pure condition. The artesian wells cost not far from $6 per foot for the boring, and are much less expensive. Mos

1 minute read

Read Chapter

The Medicinal Value of the Waters.

The Medicinal Value of the Waters.

There is no doubt of their power to promote evacuations of effete accumulations from the kidneys, skin and bowels. Dr. Draper, an eminent physician, in speaking of the springs, says: "They restore suppressed, and correct vitiated secretions, and so renovate health, and are also the means of introducing many medicines into the system in a state of minute subdivision, in which they exert a powerful alterative and curative action." The value of mineral water has been shown in the treatment of obscu

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Individual Characteristics.

Individual Characteristics.

In stating the special properties of the individual springs, we have conscientiously endeavored to make this work as reliable and accurate as possible. Those who are familiar with the reputation and claims of some of the several springs in past years will notice many changes, but it is believed that the information herein given is on the best authority, and brought down to the latest date....

18 minute read

Read Chapter

The Analyses of the Saratoga Waters, by C.F. Chandler, Ph.D., of the Columbia School of Mines.

The Analyses of the Saratoga Waters, by C.F. Chandler, Ph.D., of the Columbia School of Mines.

Individuals have their preferences, and opinions may differ in regard to the relative value of the springs, particularly when parties are interested in them. We have no interest in one more than in all, and have brought to our task, we believe, no partiality. The manuscript has been submitted to leading physicians of Saratoga before publication, and is approved by them. The arrangement is alphabetical....

8 minute read

Read Chapter

CONGRESS SPRING.

CONGRESS SPRING.

In Congress Park, opposite Grand Central Hotel. Congress and Empire Spring Company are the proprietors. The New York office is at 94 Chambers street. Congress Spring was discovered in 1792, by a party of three gentlemen, who were out upon a hunting excursion. Among the party was John Taylor Gilman, an ex-member of Congress from New Hampshire. Probably in that day, office conferred more honor than at the present time, and as a compliment to so distinguished a person, the spring was then and there

39 minute read

Read Chapter

COLUMBIAN SPRING.

COLUMBIAN SPRING.

In Congress Park, under the Grecian Dome, near the Congress spring, Congress and Empire Spring Co., proprietors. This spring was opened in 1806 by Gideon Putnam. The water issues from the natural rock about seven feet below the surface of the ground, and is protected by heavy wooden tubing. It is the most popular spring among the residents of Saratoga. The escaping bubbles of free carbonic acid gas give to the fountain a boiling motion. Large quantities of the gas can easily be collected at the

1 minute read

Read Chapter

THE CRYSTAL SPRING

THE CRYSTAL SPRING

Is under the southern extremity of the new hotel. The proprietors have named it the Crystal Spring from the crystalline appearance of the water, which does not rise to the surface, but is pumped up from a depth of several feet. It was discovered in 1870 by experimental excavation. The characteristic, and to many disagreeable odor of sulphuretted hydrogen, is readily perceived. Sulphur veins, or iron pyrites, are found in all sections of this valley; one of the most provoking problems of the owne

35 minute read

Read Chapter

THE ELLIS SPRING

THE ELLIS SPRING

Is near the railroad, between the Glacier and Geyser Springs. It has been known for a long time. The water flows through the slate rock , and, unlike any other spring at Saratoga, issues in a horizontal direction from the side of the hill. It is a very fine chalybeate, but is not bottled....

16 minute read

Read Chapter

EMPIRE SPRING,

EMPIRE SPRING,

Situated on Spring avenue, at the head of Circular street, and near the base of a high limestone bluff, in the northerly part of the village, a few rods above the Star Spring, and about three-fourths of a mile from the Congress. Owned by the Congress and Empire Spring Company. O.H. Cromwell, Superintendent. Mineral water was known to trickle down the bank at this point ever since the land was cleared of its primitive shrubs. It was not till the year 1846 that the fountain was taken in charge. Th

1 minute read

Read Chapter

EUREKA MINERAL SPRING

EUREKA MINERAL SPRING

Is situated on Lake avenue, and on Spring avenue, about a mile east of Broadway, and a few rods beyond the Excelsior Spring. Eureka Spring Company, proprietors. A.R. Dyett, Esq., President. The location of the spring is in the midst of very romantic and picturesque scenery, embracing a beautiful park of some twenty-five acres. Since the water was analyzed the fountain has been retubed, and its quality improved. It is serviceable in dyspepsia and all diseases and affections of the liver and kidne

1 minute read

Read Chapter

THE EXCELSIOR SPRING

THE EXCELSIOR SPRING

Is found in a beautiful valley, and amid most romantic scenery, about a mile east of the town hall. The principal entrance to this spring is on Lake avenue, about half a mile east of Circular street. Another route is via Spring avenue, by which we pass a majority of the other springs, and also the Loughberry water-works which supply the village of Saratoga Springs with water from the Excelsior Lake by the celebrated Holly system. Just before us, as we reach a point where the avenue turns towards

3 minute read

Read Chapter

THE GEYSER SPOUTING SPRING

THE GEYSER SPOUTING SPRING

Is about a mile and a half below the village, on the Ballston road, and near the railroad. Business address, "Geyser Spring." This wonderful mineral fountain was discovered in February. 1870. There had been indications of mineral water in this neighborhood, which had been noticed for a long time. The building which is now used as a bottling-house, and beneath which the spring was found, was used as a bolt factory. The proprietors, Messrs. Vail and Seavy, determined to bore for a spring. They wer

2 minute read

Read Chapter

THE GLACIER SPOUTING SPRING,

THE GLACIER SPOUTING SPRING,

"Sparkling, rippling, and dancing about, Freighted with health and brilliant with light, Soothing the ear and entrancing the sight." May be found in a little valley east of the railroad and directly opposite the Geyser Spring, about a mile south of the village. Button &amp; Gibbs, proprietors. It was discovered in Sept. 1871, and is the most remarkable fountain in the world. It discharges from four to eight gallons per minute, spouting through a quarter inch nozzle to a height of fifty-two f

1 minute read

Read Chapter

HAMILTON SPRING.

HAMILTON SPRING.

On Spring street, corner of Putnam, in the rear of Congress Hall, and a short distance from Hathorn Spring. Its principal action is diuretic and, in large doses, cathartic. The mineral ingredients are the same as those of the other springs, but, owing to the peculiar combination, the medicinal effects are widely different. It has been found of great service in kidney complaints. From one to three glasses during the day is the usual dose. It should be used under the prescription of a physician, a

31 minute read

Read Chapter

THE HATHORN SPRING

THE HATHORN SPRING

Is situated immediately north of Congress Hall, on Spring street. H.H. Hathorn, proprietor. The spring was discovered in 1868 by workmen engaged in excavating for the foundations of a brick building for Congress Hall ball-room. At the time of discovery its waters contained more mineral substances than any other spring at Saratoga. During the past winter a defect in the tubing has led the proprietors to retube it very carefully and at great expense. At the recent retubing two streams were found a

50 minute read

Read Chapter

THE HIGH ROCK SPRING

THE HIGH ROCK SPRING

Is located on Willow walk, between the Seltzer and the Star Springs. The High Rock is the oldest in point of discovery of the Saratoga springs. As early as 1767, Sir Wm. Johnson was brought to it on a litter by his Indian friends. It is noted for the most remarkable natural curiosity of the vicinity, certainly. The following interesting description of this rock is by Prof. Chandler: "The spring rises in a little mound of stone, three or four feet high, which appears like a miniature volcano, exc

4 minute read

Read Chapter

PAVILION SPRING.

PAVILION SPRING.

A few steps from Broadway, in a somewhat secluded valley, though in the very centre of Saratoga and directly at the head of Spring avenue (now being completed), bubble up the clear and sparkling water of the Pavilion Spring. The pleasure seeker strolling up Broadway is directed by a modest sign down Lake avenue to "Pavilion Spring and Park." A few steps, less than half a block, brings him to the handsome arched gateway of this very pretty park in which one can pass the time as pleasantly as coul

2 minute read

Read Chapter

PUTNAM SPRING,

PUTNAM SPRING,

On Phila street, near Broadway. Used chiefly for bathing purposes. It is a tonic or chalybeate, and, as this goes to press, is being retubed. The proprietor, Mr. Lewis Putnam, is the oldest native resident of Saratoga....

10 minute read

Read Chapter

THE RED SPRING.

THE RED SPRING.

This spring is located on Spring avenue, a short distance beyond the Empire, at the junction of Geneva and Warren streets. Red Spring Co., proprietors. It was discovered soon after the Revolutionary war, by a Mr. Norton, who had been driven from the place from fear of hostile Indians during the war, and who returned about the year 1784 to re-occupy and improve some buildings erected by him for the accommodation of a few invalids who came to visit the High Rock, Flat Rock, President and Red Sprin

2 minute read

Read Chapter

SARATOGA "A" SPRING.

SARATOGA "A" SPRING.

The "A" Spring is situated on Spring avenue, a little beyond the Empire Spring, on the eastern side of a steep bluff of calciferous sand rock, upon grounds which could be made quite attractive by a moderate outlay. The memory of that reverend being, the oldest inhabitant does not recall the time when the existence of mineral water in this immediate locality was not known. As the merits of spring waters were so little known and understood in the earlier days of their discovery, the demand was far

2 minute read

Read Chapter

SELTZER SPRING.

SELTZER SPRING.

"Saratoga Seltzer Spring Co.," proprietors. Perhaps no one of the springs gratifies the curious more than the Seltzer. It is situated about 150 feet from the High Rock Spring, but, although in such close proximity thereto, its water is entirely different, thus illustrating the wonderful extent and capacity of nature's subterranean laboratory. The owners of the Seltzer Spring have an ingenious contrivance for exhibiting the flow of the water and its gas. It consists of a glass tube, three feet in

2 minute read

Read Chapter

THE STAR SPRING

THE STAR SPRING

Is located on Spring avenue near the termination of Circular street. Star Spring Co., proprietors, Melvin Wright, Superintendent. Under the name of President Spring, and afterwards Iodine Spring, the fountain now called the Star has been known for nearly a century; long enough to test its merits and long enough to sink it in oblivion if it possessed no merits. Its lustre is undimmed, and it promises to be a star that shall never set. During these many years a goodly proportion of tottering human

1 minute read

Read Chapter

THE TEN SPRINGS.

THE TEN SPRINGS.

This is the name which was formerly given to several springs in the immediate vicinity of the Excelsior, and embracing the Union and the Minnehaha, which have been recently tubed. The other springs have been neglected, and the name "Ten Springs" has been abandoned....

13 minute read

Read Chapter

THE UNITED STATES SPRING

THE UNITED STATES SPRING

Is located under the same colonnade as the Pavilion, and less than ten feet distant from it. When the Pavilion was being retubed, in 1868, a new spring was discovered flowing from the east (the Pavilion and nearly all the other springs flowing from the west). It has been carefully tubed and christened the United States. It seems to be tonic in its properties, with only a very slight cathartic effect. It is now used for mixing with the still wines by our German citizens, who find in it the virtue

1 minute read

Read Chapter

THE WASHINGTON SPRING

THE WASHINGTON SPRING

Is situated in the grounds of the Clarendon Hotel, on South Broadway. This fountain was the first tubed in this mineral valley, being opened by Gideon Putnam, in 1806. It was used for bathing purposes chiefly. Dr. Steel writes of it in 1828, that it is "found of eminent service when applied to old, ill-conditioned ulcers, and obstinate eruptions of the skin." A cluster of bushes formed a shelter for the external use of the water. In 1858 a shaft eleven feet square was sunk round the spring to a

1 minute read

Read Chapter

EUREKA WHITE SULPHUR SPRING

EUREKA WHITE SULPHUR SPRING

Is about a mile east of Broadway and only a few rods distant from the Eureka Mineral and the Ten Springs. Lake avenue and Spring avenue lead directly to it. Stages run between the spring and the village every hour, passing the principal hotels. Eureka Spring Co. are the proprietors. This is the Sulphur Spring of Saratoga. It is said to be unsurpassed by any Sulphur spring in the State. Sulphuretted or hepatic waters acquire their peculiar properties from beds of pyrites or by passing through str

33 minute read

Read Chapter

DIRECTIONS FOR THE USE OF THE WATERS.[B]

DIRECTIONS FOR THE USE OF THE WATERS.[B]

When suffering from a cold the cathartic waters should be avoided. Those affected with lung complaints should not drink these waters. As an alterative , the waters should be drank in small quantities at various intervals during the day. As their alterative effect is from the absorption of the water, the quantity taken should be small. The chalybeate or tonic waters are liable to cause headache when taken before breakfast. They may be used with benefit before or after dinner and tea. Only from a

1 minute read

Read Chapter

The Saratoga Waters at a Distance from the Springs.

The Saratoga Waters at a Distance from the Springs.

If the Saratoga waters are really what they have the reputation of being—and certainly no one who has witnessed their effects can deny their wonderful power—the purity of the water which is supplied to invalids, at a distance from the springs, becomes a matter of the utmost consequence. "The fashionable and the rich," writes an eminent divine, "who fill these splendid saloons, are not alone the people for whom the beneficent Creator opened these health-giving fountains; but they are also those w

3 minute read

Read Chapter

PLACES OF INTEREST IN THE VICINITY OF SARATOGA.

PLACES OF INTEREST IN THE VICINITY OF SARATOGA.

Photographs of the above can be had of Baker &amp; Record. For the location of these places see map. No charge is made to visitors for the use of the waters, except a trifling fee to the "dipper boys," and even this is at the option of the visitor....

16 minute read

Read Chapter

Saratoga as a Watering Place.

Saratoga as a Watering Place.

The question "where to spend the Summer?" is usually discussed by paterfamilias, anxious mammas and uneasy children long before the summer solstice drives them from the pent-up confines of the busy metropolis to the pure air and quite recreation of country life. Many will visit the seaside, some will climb the mountains or explore the forests. Fashion, in most instances, determines the place of resort, and has fixed on certain localities, or courts of its acknowledged leaders, where not to have

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Routes to Saratoga.

Routes to Saratoga.

During the visiting season trains from the metropolis reach the place in five hours and thirty minutes—a distance of 186 miles. You can leave the city at nine o'clock in the morning, and upon the soft-cushioned seats, and amid the damask and velvet of Wagman's magnificent drawing-room cars, enjoy a pleasurable journey up the famous Hudson, till you arrive at Saratoga early in the afternoon. Or, by the four o'clock train, Saratoga is reached in the evening. If pleasure is the object, and enjoymen

50 minute read

Read Chapter

The Railway Station

The Railway Station

Is naturally a place of special interest in any watering place. Visitors are no sooner settled in their summer quarters than they become interested in the incomings and outgoings of their fellow men, watching eagerly if perchance any old acquaintance may turn up. The contrast between city and country life in this respect is noticable. Those who, amid the race for wealth in the cities, can scarcely afford a nod to intimate friends, here greet a slight acquaintance even with a friendliness and cor

42 minute read

Read Chapter

The Village.

The Village.

Large enough to possess a fixed population of some 9,000, it has double, and perhaps treble, this number in the visiting season; with elegant and costly churches, mammoth hotels and metropolitan stores, affording everything desirable, from a paper of pins to the rarest diamonds and laces, it has been called " rus in urbe "—more properly, urbs in rure . The principal street is Broadway, miles in length, ample in breadth, and, for the most part, shaded with a double line of graceful elms. Its extr

50 minute read

Read Chapter

Accommodations for Man and Beast.

Accommodations for Man and Beast.

About 15,000 visitors can at one time be quartered in the gay watering place, and consequently to pen up all the fashionable flock within the limits of so small a town, requires no little tact. During August, Saratoga is always full, crowded, squeezed. Saratoga has the largest and most extensive hotels in the world. There are in all from thirty to forty, and in addition to them numerous public and private boarding-houses accommodate large numbers of guests. Among the hotels, the gem of Saratoga,

29 minute read

Read Chapter

Congress Hall.

Congress Hall.

Extending from Spring to Congress street, with a front on Broadway of 416 feet, and reaching with its two mammoth wings 300 feet back, it is architecturally a perfect beauty. The rooms are large and elegant. The halls are ten feet wide, and broad, commodious stairways, with the finest elevator in the country, render every portion readily accessible. A front piazza, 20 feet wide and 240 feet in length, with numerous others within the grounds, and a promenade on the top of the hotel affording a ch

57 minute read

Read Chapter

The Grand Union Hotel.

The Grand Union Hotel.

This mammoth establishment is located on the west side of Broadway, and with its magnificent grounds embraces a space seven acres in extent, covering nearly an entire square. It is a splendid brick structure, with a street frontage of 1,364 feet. The office, parlor, dining room and dancing hall are unequaled for size, graceful architecture and splendid equipments and finish—the former exhibiting a lavish display of white and colored marbles, while a series of colonnades rise from the center to t

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Grand Central.

Grand Central.

"The new hotel," erected by Dr. R. Hamilton and Mr. C.R. Brown, is located on Broadway, directly opposite Congress Park, occupying the ground swept over by the immense conflagration which consumed the Crescent, Park Place and other hotels last September. Untiring energy has been manifested in its construction, and it is without doubt one of the most perfect summer hotels in the world. It is a tasteful and elegant structure, adding very much to the beauty and attractiveness of Saratoga. The citiz

1 minute read

Read Chapter

The Clarendon.

The Clarendon.

Is patronized by a very aristocratic and select class of guests. Its location is very picturesque; and within its inclosure, magnificently circled by elms and covered with a superb pagoda, is the celebrated Washington spring. The Leland Spring, named in honor of the affable proprietor of the hotel, is also within the grounds....

17 minute read

Read Chapter

The Everett House,

The Everett House,

On South Broadway, a few steps beyond the Clarendon, is well patronized by a wealthy and cultivated class of guests. A very pleasant piazza surrounding the front of the house, and a pretty lawn and cottage in the grounds, are attractive features of this summer hotel. The house has a home-like appearance and a delightful location. Improvements and additions are now contemplated, to be completed before next season, which will render this one of the most beautiful summer hotels in America. As our s

47 minute read

Read Chapter

Temple Grove Seminary

Temple Grove Seminary

Is beautifully situated in a grove in the eastern part of the village, on what was formerly called Temple Hill. Rev. Chas. F. Dowd, A.M., a graduate of Yale College, is the principal. The regular graduating course occupies a period of four years, and embraces many of the studies pursued in our colleges for young men, while every facility is afforded for the more modern and artistic accomplishments. The endowment is found in the fact that during the long summer vacation the building is opened as

25 minute read

Read Chapter

The Climate

The Climate

Of Saratoga is remarkably pleasant and salubrious. Mountain bulwarks protect it from wind and tempest. We doubt if there is any place in the world which can offer more attractions to the invalid. Those who visit Saratoga in the pursuit of health, will find a very pleasant home among cultivated people at the Institute of Drs. Strong , on Circular street. We take pleasure in speaking of this house because it is unique in its character, and is one of the features of Saratoga. A guide book is not th

1 minute read

Read Chapter

The Churches

The Churches

Are commodious and built with special reference to the visiting population. They are ministered to by resident pastors of culture and repute, and their pulpits are filled during the season by distinguished divines from all sections of the country. The Methodist Society have the most elegant and conveniently located edifice. It was dedicated the present year, and is situated on the north side of Washington street, just above the Grand Union. It is built of brick with sandstone trimmings, and cost

1 minute read

Read Chapter

The Y.M.C.A.

The Y.M.C.A.

Are located on Phila street, nearly opposite the Post-Office. Daily prayer meetings are held from 10 to 11 a.m....

6 minute read

Read Chapter

Real Estate,

Real Estate,

While not exorbitant, as at Newport and other watering places, the prices of real estate in Saratoga, as might be expected, are somewhat higher than usually reign in villages of its size. The value of real estate is enhanced very much yearly; the average rise, for several years, has been about ten per cent per annum. The size of the village and the number of the resident population—now about 9,000—is constantly increasing. Numerous and costly dwellings are being erected on almost every street. T

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Hack Fares.

Hack Fares.

Saratoga cannot be called extortionate. Unlike Niagara, its prices are not exorbitant. Most people like to drive a fast horse, and they can do so very reasonably here. A nice single team can be obtained a whole afternoon for only $3, and a nobby carriage and coachman will carry a party to the Lake and back for from $3 to $6, at any time during the season. Hack fare, in the village, is 50 cents for each passenger; baggage, 25 cents each piece. An elegant turnout, including coachman, can be leased

41 minute read

Read Chapter

Drives and Walks.

Drives and Walks.

The most fashionable drive is the new Boulevard to the Lake. Until recently there have been few attractions beside the gay and brilliant procession of carriages with their fair occupants and superb horses. The drive is four miles in length, with a row of trees on each side and one in the middle. Carriages pass down on one side and return on the other. No sooner have we turned by the Congress Spring than we are in a long level reach of plains, dotted here and there with trees of pine and fir, wit

58 minute read

Read Chapter

Moon's Lake House,

Moon's Lake House,

One of the features of Saratoga. There is a row of carriages at the sheds—a select party is dining upon those choice trout, black bass and young woodcock. The game dinners are good, the prices are high, and the fried potatoes are noted all over the world. They have never been successfully imitated. Are done up in papers and sold like confectionery. The gayly dressed ladies indulge in beatific expressives as they feast upon them. A capital story is told of Moon, the proprietor—indeed, he tells it

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Saratoga Lake.

Saratoga Lake.

It has nine miles of length and two miles and a half of breadth. Many and varied scenes of interest and grandeur occur within this broad range of water and shore. The whole lake is replete with quiet and gentle beauty, striking the beholder rather with admiration than astonishment. Boating and sailing may be enjoyed upon its waters, and a small steamer, plying from point to point, is at the command of pleasure parties. Formerly an abundance of trout was found here, and shad and herring were amon

2 minute read

Read Chapter

Chapman's Hill

Chapman's Hill

Is a mile beyond the Lake House, and one hundred and eighty feet above the level of the lake. A charming view is afforded. Immediately below, the lake presents a mirrored surface of several square miles, while the meadows and table lands on its western shore may be traced with all their simple beauty until they merge into the Kayaderosseras range of mountains....

18 minute read

Read Chapter

Wagman's Hill,

Wagman's Hill,

Which is about three miles beyond, affords a still more extended view. This hill is two hundred and forty feet above the lake....

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Hagerty Hill,

Hagerty Hill,

Six miles north of the village, toward Luzerne, brings to view a fine landscape. But the most extended view and the boldest landscape may be seen from...

8 minute read

Read Chapter

Wearing Hill,

Wearing Hill,

On the Mount Pleasant road, and about fifteen miles from Saratoga Springs. Saratoga, Ballston, Schenectady, Waterford, Mechanicville, Schuylerville, Saratoga Lake, Round Lake, etc., by the aid of a glass, can all be discerned from this hill....

10 minute read

Read Chapter

Lake Lovely

Lake Lovely

Is the euphonious name of an interesting little sheet of water not far from the village on the Boulevard to Saratoga Lake. Though not of very great extent, it has many points of considerable attraction, one of which is a glen on the eastern bank of the lake, which forms an echo, said to be almost as distinct and powerful as the celebrated one in the ruined bastion of the old French fortress at Crown Point....

21 minute read

Read Chapter

Stiles' Hill,

Stiles' Hill,

An interesting locality, revealing a varied landscape, along the Hudson and Mohawk rivers, may be reached in a drive of a few miles along the base of the Palmerton Mountain....

9 minute read

Read Chapter

Corinth Falls,

Corinth Falls,

A bold cataract in the Upper Hudson, is some fifteen miles from Saratoga, and a mile from Jessup's Landing, on the Adirondack Railway....

7 minute read

Read Chapter

Luzerne,

Luzerne,

A charming hamlet at the confluence of the Hudson and Sacandaga, is twenty miles from Saratoga. It may be reached by a carriage road or the Adirondack Railway. Lake Luzerne, a beautiful sheet of water, on the shore of which the village is situated, affords excellent opportunities for fishing and boating. There are two excellent hotels—Rockwell's and the Wayside. The latter has numerous cottages attached for summer residents. It is owned by B.C. Butler, Esq., well known as the author of an intere

25 minute read

Read Chapter

Lake George

Lake George

Is about thirty miles from Saratoga by carriage road. The Adirondack Railway, and a stage ride of nine miles, is the pleasantest and most convenient route. Travelers can return the same day, if necessary. There are other and shorter drives in Saratoga, which are very attractive. Spring Avenue , leading to the Excelsior and Sulphur springs and returning by Lake Avenue, is being laid out and will make a beautiful drive. The road to Ballston and the Spouting Springs has been recently improved, and

22 minute read

Read Chapter

Congress Park

Congress Park

Is the gem of Saratoga. It consists of a small hill in the shape of a horseshoe, covered with handsome trees, and laid out in smooth walks encircling the low ground which surrounds the spring. The park is the property of the Congress and Empire Spring Co., who generously keep it in perfect repair, and open to the public....

20 minute read

Read Chapter

Gridley's Trout Ponds.

Gridley's Trout Ponds.

Those who are fond of "speckled beauties," and would like to obtain a fine mess without encountering the swarms of mosquitoes, gnats and sand flies that usually infest the region where the trout may be taken, should visit Gridley's. "Old Gridley," as he is familiarly called, formerly kept the Pavilion, near the depot. Some three or four years since he conceived the idea of starting a fish propagating establishment. His place is located in a beautiful little ravine, about one mile and a half from

1 minute read

Read Chapter

The Saratoga Battle Ground.

The Saratoga Battle Ground.

A visit to the scene of the great battle of Saratoga, in October, 1777, which ended in the surrender of the British Army, under Burgoyne, to the Americans, under Gates, will occupy a pleasant though somewhat long day's excursion. The battle was fought upon the elevated lands at Bemis Heights two miles from the Hudson, in the town of Stillwater, about 15 miles from Saratoga Springs. Visitors may obtain all desired information respecting the precise localities of the struggle from Cicerones on the

27 minute read

Read Chapter

The Surrender Ground,

The Surrender Ground,

The scene of the capitulation a few weeks subsequent to the battle, is a few miles further up the river....

6 minute read

Read Chapter

The Village Cemetery,

The Village Cemetery,

In places that can boast but few objects of interest, is usually one of the chief places of resort. In Saratoga there are so many "show places" and peculiar attractions, that the cemetery visitors are limited principally to the resident population, and those who arm in arm, or hand in hand, stroll through its meandering paths, or while away their hours in its shady seats nurturing the tender passion. The old cemetery is near the Empire Spring. The village cemetery proper is found east and south

1 minute read

Read Chapter

The Verd-Antique Marble Works.

The Verd-Antique Marble Works.

Among the outside diversions which every tourist, and especially every scientist, should visit is the steam mills of the Adirondack Verd-Antique Marble Co. The mills are situated in this village near the freight depot, though the quarries are in Thurman, on the Adirondack railroad. A very interesting peculiarity of this marble—which is quite beautiful—is, that it contains minute fossils of the earliest forms of existence known to scientific men—the Eozoön Canadense . The marble is capable of a h

24 minute read

Read Chapter

Amusements.

Amusements.

Some one has said that the amusements of Saratoga life are dancing and drinking, the one exercise being the Omega as the other is the Alpha of its butterfly life. Saratoga, however, abounds in amusements. There are the races at the race-course and on the lake; there are balls and hops every night; there are the Indians and the Circular railway, and drives in all directions; there are select parties and music by the bands, and shopping, and concerts, and, at the religious houses, charades and tab

28 minute read

Read Chapter

Josh Billings

Josh Billings

says that, "after going to Long Branch and frolicking in the water, he relishes going to Saratoga and letting the water frolic in him." A correspondent gives the following...

9 minute read

Read Chapter

Routine for a Lady.

Routine for a Lady.

Rise and dress; go down to the spring; drink to the music of the band; walk around the park—bow to gentlemen; chat a little; drink again; breakfast; see who comes in on the train; take a siesta; walk in the parlor; bow to gentlemen; have a little small talk with gentlemen; have some gossip with ladies; dress for dinner; take dinner an hour and a half; sit in the grounds and hear the music of the band; ride to the lake; see who comes by the evening train; dress for tea; get tea; dress for the hop

39 minute read

Read Chapter

Balls.

Balls.

The three largest hotels have elegant ball-rooms, where hops take place every evening. Balls are held every week at each of the houses. Upon the latter occasion, the dressing becomes a matter of life and death, and explains why such numbers of those traveling arks known as "Saratoga trunks" are docked at the station every summer. Balls are reported in the papers far and near, and the anxiety of some to secure a good report of their costume is amusing. Brown's dismay at the bills is somewhat appe

1 minute read

Read Chapter

The Races

The Races

Occur the middle of July, and the second week in August, and are under the charge of the Saratoga Racing Association. The race-course is about a mile from Congress Spring. It was laid out in 1866, by C.H. Ballard, an accomplished surveyor, and is unsurpassed, if equaled, by any race-course in America, not excepting the famous Fashion course on Long Island. The swiftest and most noted racers in the Union are brought here, and many of the most remarkable races known to sportsmen have occurred on t

25 minute read

Read Chapter

Indian Camp.

Indian Camp.

A few steps from Congress Spring, directly past the Saratoga Club-House, leads you to a wicket gate marked "Circular, Railway and, Indian, Camp." The Indians are not such as figure conspicuously in the early annals of our country and in our favorite romances—as Eli Perkins says—"far different!" They are simply a Canadian Gypsy band, part low French and part low Indian blood. They come here annually with an eye to business, and open their weird camp to the public simply as a speculation, offering

56 minute read

Read Chapter

The Circular Railway

The Circular Railway

Is connected with the Indian Camp. An opportunity is here afforded for enthusiasts and very gallant gentlemen to test their strength and patience, by propelling themselves and friends round the circle in one of the cars. The recreation requires the expenditure of no little strength, and is only accomplished by the sweat of some one's brow, but it is preferable, doubtless, to "swinging round the circle." Within a few feet of the Circular Railway is a spring of pure soft water. The water is quite

34 minute read

Read Chapter

Shopping.

Shopping.

Abundant opportunity is afforded those who have occasion to visit emporiums of art and fashion on shopping designs intent. The flashing establishments under the large hotels, as well as several others in the village, cater entirely to the fashionable visitor. Everything desirable in the way of laces, feathers, diamonds and ornaments, and elegant dress goods are obtainable. It is the custom of many of the fashionable merchants and modistes of New York to open here during the summer, branch establ

39 minute read

Read Chapter

Evening.

Evening.

It is only in the evening that Saratoga is in full bloom. When— "—— night throughout the gelid air, Veils with her sable wings the solar glare; When modest Cynthia clad in silver light Expands her beauty on the brow of night, Sheds her soft beams upon the mountain side, Peeps through the wood and quivers on the tide," then faces light up with the gas lamps. The parlors begin to fill with elegantly attired ladies, the piazzas are thronged with chatty and sociable gentlemen, and the streets are cr

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Saratoga in Winter.

Saratoga in Winter.

Saratoga is not a "Country where the leaves never fall, and the eternal day is summer-time." As the gorgeous autumnal sunsets of October crown the golden-capped, or no longer verdant forests, the summer beauties prepare to return to their winter homes. The falling leaves in this vicinity are wondrously beautiful, and the cool sunsets will richly reward those who tarry to behold them; but "the season" is over, and the little town becomes almost a deserted village. "Brightly, sweet Summer, brightl

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Romance.

Romance.

Although Saratoga is preëminently a fashionable resort, and the city of vanity fair, it is nevertheless Cupid's summer-home; and lovers here acknowledge the first throbbings of that passion of bright hopes, and too many sad realities—love. The complaint is always heard that "fish don't bite this season;" but autumn comes, the butterflies return home, and then it is found that a goodly number have been caught . Those not matrimonially inclined should know that a sojourn at a Spa is attended with

23 minute read

Read Chapter

Saratoga Society.

Saratoga Society.

The poet says of Saratoga life: "Saratoga society, What endless variety! What pinks of propriety! What gems of sobriety! What garrulous old folks, What shy folks and bold folks, And warm folks and cold folks! Such curious dressing, And tender caressing, (Of course that is guessing.) Such sharp Yankee Doodles, And dandified noodles, And other pet poodles! Such very loud patterns, (Worn often by slatterns!) Such strait necks, and bow necks, Such dark necks and snow necks, And high necks and low ne

1 minute read

Read Chapter

Conclusion.

Conclusion.

But while we laugh at Saratoga, its dancing, dressing and flirtation, it is yet not without its lessons for an observing eye. "Here the heart May give a useful lesson to the head, And Learning wiser grow without his books." It is not all frivolity. Like every aspect of life, and like most persons, it is a hint and suggestion of something high and poetic. It is an oasis of repose in the desert of our American hurry. It is a perpetual festival. Here we step out of the worn and weary ruts of city s

55 minute read

Read Chapter

APPENDIX TO PART I.

APPENDIX TO PART I.

When the previous forms went to press, we were unable to give any satisfactory and reliable statement of the Spouting Springs recently discovered in the vicinity of the Geyser. We present, below, such information as we are able to give in regard to them at this time, hoping to render our description more complete in future editions of this work. This recently discovered Spouting Spring is located on the north side of the road near the Geyser. The vein was struck in January of the present year. T

2 minute read

Read Chapter

RESIDENT STORE,

RESIDENT STORE,

One of these STEAM PALACES will leave Albany every evening (Sundays excepted), on arrival of the evening trains on the Rensselaer and Saratoga, New York Central and Albany &amp; Susquehanna Railroads....

31 minute read

Read Chapter

PEOPLE'S LINE STEAMERS

PEOPLE'S LINE STEAMERS

The Saratogian is one of the best Advertising Mediums in this section, as it has a circulation more than double that of all the Republican press of Saratoga County combined....

28 minute read

Read Chapter

WHITE SULPHUR BATHS

WHITE SULPHUR BATHS

The Eureka Spring Company's pure White Sulphur Spring , discovered last Summer is now open for visitors. The Water is in this State, and FAR SUPERIOR to most of them. The Company has erected a pleasant...

12 minute read

Read Chapter

BOSTON AND SARATOGA SPRINGS

BOSTON AND SARATOGA SPRINGS

The trip between Boston and Saratoga is made in one of the provided by this Line—a luxury which cannot be enjoyed on any other route, this being the only Line running through Day and Drawing Room Cars between these points. Boston Office, By promptness, industry and fair dealing, we aim to merit the confidence and give satisfaction to those who may entrust their business to our charge....

33 minute read

Read Chapter