Valley Paper Mill Chimney and Site

NY 143 at Cty Rd. 111, Alcove, NY
Local significance of the site:
Industry

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2004.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

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The Erie Canal, which opened in 1825 and connects the Hudson River to the Great Lakes, was originally mocked as "Clinton's Folly" after Governor DeWitt Clinton, who championed the project. However, the canal became an economic boon for New York and helped turn the state into a major commercial center.
Albany County, located in the state of New York, has a rich history that dates back to the early European settlement in the 17th century. The region was initially inhabited by the Mohican Native American tribe before Dutch explorers arrived in the early 1600s. In 1614, a trading post was established by the Dutch West India Company, marking the beginning of European settlement in the area.

In 1664, the English took control of the region and renamed it Albany, after the Duke of Albany, who would later become King James II. Albany became a significant center for trade and commerce due to its strategic location along the Hudson River. The city's growth was further stimulated by the establishment of Fort Orange, a trading post that served as a vital link between the Dutch and Native Americans.

Throughout the 18th century, Albany County played a crucial role in the American Revolution. The city became a center of political activity, and in 1754, it hosted the Albany Congress, where representatives from several colonies gathered to discuss a unified response to the French threat. Albany was also a key transportation hub during the war, as troops and supplies moved along the Hudson River.

During the early 19th century, Albany County experienced significant industrial and economic development. The completion of the Erie Canal in 1825 connected Albany to the Great Lakes, allowing for increased trade and the growth of manufacturing industries. The city also became the capital of New York State in 1797, solidifying its position as a political and administrative center.

Today, Albany County continues to thrive as the heart of New York's Capital Region. It is known for its diverse culture, rich historical landmarks, and educational institutions such as the University at Albany. The county reflects a blend of its early Dutch and English colonial roots with modern urbanization, making it a fascinating destination with a deep historical legacy.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Albany County, New York.

  • 1683 - Albany County is officially established by the Province of New York.
  • 1777 - Albany County becomes a strategic location during the American Revolutionary War.
  • 1791 - The city of Albany is incorporated and becomes the county seat.
  • 1800s - Albany County experiences rapid industrialization and becomes a center for trade and transportation.
  • 1812 - The War of 1812 brings increased military activity to the county.
  • 1825 - Erie Canal opens, connecting Albany County to the Great Lakes and boosting the local economy.
  • 1846 - Albany County is divided, creating the separate county of Rensselaer.
  • 1883 - The State Capitol building in Albany is completed.
  • 1936 - The Albany County Airport (now Albany International Airport) opens.
  • 1972 - The Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza is completed in Albany.
  • 1998 - Albany County celebrates its 315th anniversary.