Loading...
The first American chess tournament was held in New York City in 1843, and it was won by a 21-year-old named Paul Morphy.
About Rensselaer County
Rensselaer County Timeline
Rensselaer County is located in the eastern part of the state of New York and has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 17th century. Originally inhabited by the Mohican Native American tribe, the land was first explored by European settlers in the early 1600s. The Dutch were the first to establish a permanent settlement called Beverwyck, which served as a trading post along the Hudson River.
In 1664, the British took control of the area and renamed it Albany after the Duke of York and Albany. Rensselaer County was officially established in 1791, named after the influential Dutch landowner, Kiliaen van Rensselaer. The county grew rapidly during the Industrial Revolution, with the construction of the Erie Canal in the early 19th century, which connected the Hudson River to the Great Lakes, boosting trade and transportation.
During the American Revolution, Rensselaer County played a significant role. The Battle of Bennington, a pivotal event in the war, took place just across the border in present-day Vermont. Several notable figures emerged from the region, including Samuel Wilson, who inspired the national symbol "Uncle Sam," and Emma Willard, a pioneer in women's education.
Today, Rensselaer County is known for its thriving industries, including technology, healthcare, and education. It is home to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, one of the oldest technological universities in the United States. The county also boasts a diverse cultural scene, with numerous museums, parks, and landmarks that showcase its historical significance.
In 1664, the British took control of the area and renamed it Albany after the Duke of York and Albany. Rensselaer County was officially established in 1791, named after the influential Dutch landowner, Kiliaen van Rensselaer. The county grew rapidly during the Industrial Revolution, with the construction of the Erie Canal in the early 19th century, which connected the Hudson River to the Great Lakes, boosting trade and transportation.
During the American Revolution, Rensselaer County played a significant role. The Battle of Bennington, a pivotal event in the war, took place just across the border in present-day Vermont. Several notable figures emerged from the region, including Samuel Wilson, who inspired the national symbol "Uncle Sam," and Emma Willard, a pioneer in women's education.
Today, Rensselaer County is known for its thriving industries, including technology, healthcare, and education. It is home to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, one of the oldest technological universities in the United States. The county also boasts a diverse cultural scene, with numerous museums, parks, and landmarks that showcase its historical significance.
Rensselaer County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Rensselaer County, New York.
- 1609 - Henry Hudson explores Hudson River
- 1624 - Dutch establish Fort Orange
- 1630 - Patroonship of Rensselaerswyck established
- 1664 - English take control of Fort Orange
- 1776 - Battle of Bennington during American Revolution
- 1791 - Rensselaer County formed from Albany County
- 1826 - Construction of Erie Canal begins
- 1857 - Troy becomes a city
- 1862-1865 - Rensselaer County contributes troops during the Civil War
- 1898 - Brunswick declared the official name for Brittonkill
- 1906 - Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute becomes a university