Central Troy Historic District
a.k.a. See Also:70000427 to 70000432;73001255;73001256;73001258;730
Roughly bounded by Grand St., Fifth Ave. and Third, Adams, and First and River Sts., Troy, NY Local significance of the district:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1986.
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.
The New York City subway system, which opened in 1904, was the first rapid transit system in the world. The original line ran from City Hall to 145th Street in Harlem.
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 concise overview of the key events in 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