National Register Listing

Chalmers Knitting Mills

21-41 Bridge St., Amsterdam, NY
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Industry

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2010.

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.

architecture industry
New York State was the site of the deadliest terrorist attack in United States history prior to 9/11. In 1993, a bomb planted in the World Trade Center by Islamic extremists killed six people and injured more than a thousand others.
New York random facts
Montgomery County, located in upstate New York, has a rich and diverse history that spans hundreds of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Mohawk and the Iroquois Confederacy. European colonists arrived in the 17th century, establishing trade relationships and settlements with the Native Americans.

The county was officially established in 1772 and named after General Richard Montgomery, a hero of the American Revolutionary War. During the war, the area played a significant role as a military supply hub and battleground. Notably, the Battle of Oriskany in 1777 was a pivotal encounter in which American forces fought British loyalists and Native American allies.

In the early 19th century, Montgomery County experienced a boom in industrialization and commerce. The Erie Canal, completed in 1825, passed through the county, bringing increased trade and prosperity. Factories and mills sprang up along the canal, harnessing its power for manufacturing and contributing to the county's economic growth.

Throughout the 20th century, Montgomery County faced various challenges and changes. Deindustrialization and the decline of manufacturing industries led to economic struggles. However, efforts to diversify the economy were undertaken, with tourism and agriculture becoming increasingly important sectors. Today, the county continues to grow and adapt, preserving its heritage while embracing new opportunities for development and prosperity.

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

  • 1772 - Montgomery County is established as a county in the state of New York.
  • 1776 - The American Revolutionary War begins, and Montgomery County becomes an important area for military operations.
  • 1784 - The county seat is established in the village of Johnstown.
  • 1793 - The Erie Canal is constructed, providing a major transportation route through Montgomery County.
  • 1803 - The village of Amsterdam is incorporated.
  • 1838 - The Montgomery County Courthouse in Johnstown is destroyed by fire.
  • 1855 - The Fonda, Johnstown, and Gloversville Railroad is completed, improving transportation in the county.
  • 1869 - The Beech-Nut packing company is founded in Canajoharie.
  • 1960 - The construction of the New York State Thruway begins, connecting Montgomery County to the rest of the state.
  • 1974 - The county's population reaches its peak at over 100,000 residents.
  • 2020 - Today, Montgomery County is a rural area known for its historical attractions and natural beauty.