Downsville Covered Bridge
Historical marker location:
Downsville, New York
( Marker is on Bridge Street (New York State Route 30) 0.1 miles south of New York State Route 206, on the right.)
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The Adirondack Park, which covers more than six million acres in upstate New York, is the largest park in the contiguous United States. It was established in 1892 and contains more than 2,000 miles of hiking trails.
About Delaware County
Delaware County Timeline
Delaware County, located in the state of New York, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back centuries. The area that is now Delaware County was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Lenape, before the arrival of European settlers. In the 18th century, European settlers began to establish communities in the region, with the town of Delhi being founded in 1798.
During the American Revolution, Delaware County played a significant role as both a home to loyalist sympathizers and a hotbed of patriot activity. The region experienced military clashes and acts of rebellion, such as the Battle of Andes, which took place in 1778. After the revolution, Delaware County boomed economically, with industries like logging, tanning, and dairy farming driving growth in the 19th century.
The mid-19th century brought significant changes to Delaware County, particularly with the construction of the Erie Railroad in the 1840s. This new transportation infrastructure opened up the region for trade and development, leading to the growth of towns like Walton, Margaretville, and Andes. The railroad also brought an influx of tourists and summer residents, attracted by the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains and the Delaware River.
In the 20th century, Delaware County experienced both challenges and opportunities. The decline of traditional industries like farming and logging led to an economic downturn, but the county has seen a resurgence in recent years. Today, Delaware County is known for its vibrant arts scene, natural landscapes, and a mix of small towns and rural communities that offer a rich cultural heritage for residents and visitors alike.
During the American Revolution, Delaware County played a significant role as both a home to loyalist sympathizers and a hotbed of patriot activity. The region experienced military clashes and acts of rebellion, such as the Battle of Andes, which took place in 1778. After the revolution, Delaware County boomed economically, with industries like logging, tanning, and dairy farming driving growth in the 19th century.
The mid-19th century brought significant changes to Delaware County, particularly with the construction of the Erie Railroad in the 1840s. This new transportation infrastructure opened up the region for trade and development, leading to the growth of towns like Walton, Margaretville, and Andes. The railroad also brought an influx of tourists and summer residents, attracted by the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains and the Delaware River.
In the 20th century, Delaware County experienced both challenges and opportunities. The decline of traditional industries like farming and logging led to an economic downturn, but the county has seen a resurgence in recent years. Today, Delaware County is known for its vibrant arts scene, natural landscapes, and a mix of small towns and rural communities that offer a rich cultural heritage for residents and visitors alike.
Delaware County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Delaware County, New York.
- 1673 - Dutch explorers arrive and claim the territory for the Netherlands.
- 1682 - The land is transferred to the English as part of the Duke of York's proprietary colony.
- 1797 - Delaware County is established as one of the original counties of the state of New York.
- 1809 - The construction of the Delaware and Hudson Canal begins, bringing economic growth to the region.
- 1827 - The village of Delhi is incorporated as the county seat.
- 1883 - The Delaware and Northern Railroad is completed, providing a new transportation route.
- 1920 - The Prohibition era begins, leading to the rise of illegal alcohol production in the region.
- 1969 - The Catskill Center for Conservation and Development is founded, promoting environmental preservation.
- 1997 - The New York City Watershed Agreement is signed, aiming to protect the water quality of the region.
- 2005 - The Delaware County Historical Association is established to preserve and promote local history.