{ title: 'Adirondack daily enterprise. (Saranac Lake, N.Y.) 1927-current, February 21, 1895, Page 1, Image 1', download_links: [ { link: 'http://www.loc.gov/rss/ndnp/ndnp.xml', label: 'application/rss+xml', meta: 'News about NYS Historic Newspapers - RSS Feed', }, { link: '/lccn/sn86033360/1895-02-21/ed-1/seq-1/png/', label: 'image/png', meta: '', }, { link: '/lccn/sn86033360/1895-02-21/ed-1/seq-1.pdf', label: 'application/pdf', meta: '', }, { link: '/lccn/sn86033360/1895-02-21/ed-1/seq-1/ocr.xml', label: 'application/xml', meta: '', }, { link: '/lccn/sn86033360/1895-02-21/ed-1/seq-1/ocr.txt', label: 'text/plain', meta: '', }, ] }
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.-S*\^*-Tp-*'-* *>*••« 6 • Adirondack Daily Enterprise 'August 1994 Mfoitft VOL I. THURSDAY, >\EB. 21, 1895. No. 1. Saranac Lfake—^The (Sen of the sadiron clacks. Saranac Lake History. JHE name \Saranac\ as commonly spoken is harsh in comparison to the soft and melodious pronuncia- tion given it by the Indian. The name, meaning su- mach, was given to the river by the Banaka tribe of Indians, who made annual journeys to the Saranac for su- mach ; the dark red tassels of which they used in their war paint preparation. This tribe of Indians was known as the St. Francis tribe, because their vil- lage was situated on the St. Francis river in Canada, about sixty miles dis- tant from Montreal. The real name is Banaka. Frank Udodoson, the son of an old chief being authority for the name; and John Tahamont, a relative of the present chief of the tribe, gives the same name and same meaning to the word \Saranac.\ Udodoson has a silver medal about two and one-half inches in diameter, bearing an inscrip- tion certifying that it was given to the Great Chief (his grandfather) by the \Great White Father,\ King George III, for his brave and faithful services against the rebel colonists in the War of the and famous as a hunter and trapper, is Revolu'ion. half and hearty in his old age, and de- The Stbattis, of Long Lake, belong jjights to tell of the years ago when -.., .~-7 K^,^ y. u , i a.... <i ., f,*ci.fc« o. - v. o7v>s ct»iu uuai a \weft: ^ne tmi«r TTTtmbi- Michel SabaltTs stayed OUT night at the home of the writer it! 1N54. He was so firmly in the soil that through suc- ceeding ages their impression remained. All about was a green luxuriant growth, but the hard, bare, solid earth had ap- parently in all these years remained the same. With reference to Saranac and the vil- lage. The name was first given only to the post-office, but in the course of years it was applied to that part of Harrietts-' town through which the beautiful Sara- nac river flowed, and which territory bordered on the exquisite lake of the same name. In 1852 there were but few houses scattered through the small frontier set- tlement where now stands our prosper- ous village. Jacob Moody was the first settler, moving into the \Fifty Mile Woods,\ as it was called in 1819, and with his family bore the hardships and struggles of a pioneer in a new and un- known region. In this he bore himself up manfully and did his full share to- ward opening up the wilderness to civili- zation. He brought with him his two eldest children, Harvey and Smith, boys of 7 and 9 years of age, and on the last day of February, Cortez was born, the first white child born in the wilderness. This child, now a man of seventy-four then 10? years old. and on his way from Ixing Lake to his native village to die among his people, which lie did two years later. This region was once a fauiritc hunt- ing ground for different tribes of Indians —the PenolwaiLs, the Bunakas, the Oneidas and thel'atighnawagas roaming the woods in search of game. They left many mementoes of their presence in the stone hatchets, arrow heads and pi|>es, also pottery and other relics which have been found in the earth. for their camping in the forests, and established one, which for several years was the only one in this part of the town. Soon after W F. Martin opened a hotel on the shore of the lake, which was the nucleus of the famous Saranac Lake House, remembered by many hun- dreds as their point of departure from civilization into the wilderness. In the year of \Murray's\ rush, so-called, on account of the rush of hundreds of city people to the Saranac waters, induced by the glowing description of them in W.H.H.Murray's famous book, a charac- teristic incident occurred at this house. The* vanguard of a large party drove up to the entrance, looking disdainfully at the size of the hotel, and ordered supper and other accommodations for their par- ty of fifty. Being informed that the • ere brought from Ausable Forks, and i le people depended in a large degree upon Uncle Jay Miller, as he was called, •* Uo carried the mail twice a-week be- tween the two places, for the stock of I -oceries and provisions which he brought home with him. It is no won- d.ir that there were sometimes scarcely ~iough to go around, for the roads were s i times unusually bad and it was almost 'r apossible to get flour, etc., even when 'he residents had plenty of money with •- v hich t o buy. The post-office facilities nere also in a primitive condition. The --•stmaster at that time was forced to (arry on operations at his own house, 'tting up a place of business as best he iuld. At one time there were two school- t ouses, one near the pine grove where THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH. Spec im, n.s of these relics are to be found iso Jesse Corey, of Indian Carry, thinks) in nearl) e\erv museum and college col- lection of Indian relics from Maine to the Gulf, and away to the Pacific coast. He has responded to so many calls for thi'in. and has given so many to tourists I ir these places. Indian Carry is well named. It is the height of land (or divide) between the Raqiiette anil the Saranac waters, and »ius perhaps the richest place in Indian curios and tokens of any near. There were, a few years since, parallel ridges which gave certain signs of being corn- fields of the red man. But there were tall, straight [line trees, six to eight inches m diameter, which showed that they had long been deserted. Among the lirst growths were enormous pines which had been tied in knots by the In- dians ,whcn tender sapplings, and which still show the knots in huge, peculiar bulges. There was one interesting place on the Carry which should have been preserved, hut which was destroyed when the land \as cultivated. It is. according to nn ancient legend the .spot where a gigantic Indian stood leaning on his musket, also of heroic size. The prints of his moc- casined feet, and of the butt of his gun remaining as distinct as when in wrath and defiance, the chief planted his feet 'cS £t«u uT3ai a \weft: ^ne tmiel TTTtmbi- ^ tants of the region. Of the other sons, Franklin died in his youth; Harvey and Smith at an ad- vanced age, and Daniel nearly two years ago. All the sons, with the exception of Smith, who was a farmer, were ex- perts in woodcraft and famous as guides. Martin, the younger son, has earned for himself a reputation at Tupper Lake, where for many years he has kept a house for the accommodation of tourists. Capt. Pliny Miller, another early set- tler owned a tract of three hundred acres, the present site of Saranac Lake village. This land was granted him as an inducement to him to settle in the woods, by John R. Thurman, Mrs. Thurman, Benj. P. Burhans, Rebecca Burhans, Thomas L. Gray, Mrs. Gray, and Robert Gilchrist. This deed was not recorded by Captain Miller until three years from the time of its execu- tion. Captain Miller was an enterprising man and soon erected a saw mill after manner of the times, an old English gate pattern; since supplanted by Ste- phen Merchant's modern mill. Foryears the old mill was the only machinery utilizing the water power of the Sara- nac river at this place. Of Miller's sons, llilyer and John Jay, spent their lives mostly at Saranac Lake, where they died in their old age. John Jay left one son. Van Buren Mil- ler, who died several years ago. He was a surveyor and amply qualified by na- ture and education to hold the many places of trust imposed upon him by his fellow citizens. He was Supervisor of the town for fourteen years, and also for many years held the office of Justice of the Peace and Postmaster. He was a hard-worker ami perhaps did more to benefit the town than any one man in its early days. Ensine, the oldest of Hillyer's sons, was among the most enterprising young men of the day. He established the first store in the vicinity, a small affair as compared with the large commercial establishments of Saranac Lake today, but very important at that early date. He was also one of the Hrst to discern the possibilities of the place and by his public spirit and generosity, he did much to advance the interests of the commu- nity; often predicting its future growth and prosperity. The younger sons were Wesley James, and Milo Bushnell. Of these M. B. Miller has carried on a flourishing mercantile business and a successful hotel, retiring from active business with a comfortable competency. In 1832 Milote Baker opened a small hotel, the pioneer of Adirondack hotels; and was the lirst to entertain tourists. This house was gradually enlarged, and many noted men and women of world- wide reputation enjoyed its hospitality. Mr. Baker soon found the need of a gen- eral supply store to tit out these tourists 11. THE TOWN HAIL >me of the ADIRONDACK ENTERPRISE. house was even then full, but that per- haps ten could be cared for, places being found in the vicinity for the remainder, thus separating the party, they expressed their disgust in no measured terms and re-entered their vehicles, turning their backs on the uncivilized country which possessed no hotels with capacity for so large a party. At this time there was no railroad nearer than I'lattshurgh on the one side and Westport on the other, and the long journey over rough moun- tain roads by stage coach was very tedi- ous and fatiguing. There was little traffic with .Malone. the road being through the dense forests, and almost impassable. V. C. Bartlett. wit what might be. built, has since been called Bartlett Carry, be- tween Upper Saranac and Round lakes, which was very prosperous, and the management of winch he continued with sueress until his death. This build- ing has since been burned, but was re- built and is now known as the Club House. The difficulty of procuring provisions wius very great in the early days of the Mrs. Henry Word now resides, and one on the hill above the saw-mill. Mrs. Mary E. McClelland taught the first complete term in the latter school. Twelve pupils in one and nineteen in the other comprised the total registry. In 1H71 the white school-house wius finished, a bell placed in its tower, the two dis- tricts consolidated, and James M. Ward- ner. since proprietor of Rainbow Inn. in- stalled as teacher. He proved in every way fitted for his duties, infusing bis pupils with enthusiasm in their studies, and from that time on began the pros- perity of ourschools. This school-house was for some time used by the M. K. • church for their religious services and a perception of ' when a Protestant Kpiseopal society wius hotel on what . organized, they also held their services there for a brief period. After a time, through the liberality and exertions of Dr. K. L Trudeau and other men of wealth ami influence, the lirst church in the village was built; the church id' St Luke, the Beloved Physician. About two years later, or m IHM.'i, the Methodist Episcopal church was erected, services being held in the basement, the building not being finished or dedicated settlement. For many years almost all | until the succeeding year. THE PUBL'C SCHOOL. when the White Softool bouse became too small tor Its purpose, the building was sold at auction and moved off tne ground, and on the site was erected a handsome academy, at a cost 01 about (10,000 It was supposed that the new building would be sufficiently large to accom- modate the village schools for years to come, but this proved to be a delusive h< pe, and already a portion or the school has to be accom- modated elsewhere. The old school building was remodeled and converted Into a handsome Ma- sonic Hall. There Is a chapter of the Eastern Star In connection with the F. and A. M. lodge. The history of Saranac Lake would b'e Imper- fectly told, was there no reference made to the numerous guides resident here, i han « horn none of their craft are better or more widely known. The hardy backwoodsmen, accustomed to deal- ing with emergencies and relying entirely on their own limited resources, were at one time the only trustworthy guides In the wilderness. They had long been accustomed to sally out at break of dawn, accompanied by dog and gun, In search of game, crossing lakes and streams, and climbing mountains, ere the day wassdone, far remote from human habitation, and resting wherever night overtook them. Thus they \Ob- tained a knowledge of the entire region and were well fitted for the responsible and advent- urous life of a guide. When therefore, tourists and sportsmen appeared on the scene, requir- ing such services, they found a class of men skilled m woodcraft and all necessary accom- ,-j hmn, '.• Th^- ir->< « \ /*'\ :.-ino-nlne,-«nf the shy trout mid could soon secure an ample sup- ply for the table They knew, too, the haunts of the timid, tloet-fooicd deer, and were so suc- cessful In Hunting them that tlu'y were seldom without venis n steak, which was an Important lt«m In the bill of fare. They knew, also, from long experience, how to prepare these dainties tor the table. These, with the Inevitable coffee and tea, with slap-jacks skillfully manipulated by the practiced guide, constituted often the entire bill of fare, although the guide when re- quired, could often •• evolve \ a more varied as- sortment. The table was but a sheet of spruce bark, newly taken from the tree, supported by a light framework made by driving forked sticks Into the ground, across which other light poles were laid With tin plates and drink- ing cups the equipment was co.npletc. A camp or the ever s. rvlceable spruce or birch bark was constructed, and was tor some rea- sons, preferable to a tent. Kspeclnlly since l«.w> when Miss Murray, of London. Kng , a scotch lady of noble birth and maid of honor to tjueen Victoria, made a tour of the Adirondack.*, under the escort or ex-dovernur Seymour and others of note, i he saranac Lake guides have been cele- brated by alaiij an author Miss Murray, In her celebrated book -Letters to Europe,\ immortalized two of her guides by slightly altering the name of one to \Prince Albert,\ and warmly commending ihe oilier as being so \attentive in the ladies\ since that time Hie name of many a favorite guide 1ms appeared 111 the works ol Alfred B. street. J T lleailley, w II. II. Murray, and others, and all add their testimony to the iM.-llt) and capability ot the Adirondack I guides A Town Hall, for which an appropriation of Jio.anu was made, was built In 1RS8 The orlgt- ' nal appropriation proved far too small ror the cost er the hall, which. In a more favorable local Inn, would be an ornament. I\ tile village. The prosperity of Saraaae Lake is almost wholly due to the prominence she has achieved as a health resort. This was brought about largel.\, by l lie founding or a Sanitarium In this village tor tlie treatment or tub.Tculnsls. A history of this Institution will be round else- where hi these columns Locking nut f ver the heallttru! village, with Its pleasant streets peopled by dashing equip- ages and the more sedate pedestrians, and lined with elegant collages, and Ueautirtll public buildings, the change wrought during these . \ears seems marvelous,and can not be account- I oil for by the laws or natural growth. Our citi- zens may well be proud or their beautirul \lllage , but we should not lurget that much cretin Is ilue lo men like K. I.. Trudeau, M. D., Alrred 1. I.oolnls, M. II . fieiirge ('. ('coper, and maiij uiliers wlin. hoih il,,anelally and morally ha\e done lillmeasnr.ible jroud in Hie Work ot establishing Mils \illage upon Us present root- ing Let llsnll worl, logel ller as one lllatl that the present prosper!! j nisaianac Lake may be maintained and Hint l he future may be In kcep- [ Ing with the past. I To-Day. The enterprise of the citizens of Sai-flnacLake Is easily proven by a glance at the Sta<Bet«s of tuelr beautiful village. On all Bides we see evi- dences of thrift and prosperity. It is not hard, cither, for the stranger to learn by actual ob- servation that Saranac Lake Is a health resort, and one, evidently considered ot no small merit. On almost every porch are seen from one to a half-dozen persona comfortably wrap- ped up and reclining in easy chairs, in the open air—the great beneficial agent—throughout tne day. Saranac Lake has most emphatically taken the lead a8 an Adirondack health resort. Its rahroad connections are such that It Is most easily reached of all Adirondack towns, while the fact that the Adirondack Sanitarium, lab- iratory, and the residence of many celebrated medalists on tuberculosis are located here have materially aided the village In securing a high eputatlon In this matter. The village is located near I/>wer Saranac Lake. It Is an exceedingly pretty village slt- lated at the foot of gentle mountain slopes on a ilateau some 1600 feet above tide-water. The mranoc river winds its way through the village ind where the water sets back from a dam has widened into an expanse, which has been named Lake Flower In honor ot ex-Go*ernor Flower. This little body ol water is being cteared-from. itumps and rubbish and will add much to the, beauty of the village. A driveway has been laid out around It. and In winter't affords sport In the Way oi skating alia cru^ing-raceo.' The village streets are kept scrupulously .•lean and many beautiful residences and public buildings are seen upbh them. A public library ot elegant, hut modest de- sign, well furnished, and having within It a col- lection of about 2500 volumes and the current literature ot the day, was the gift, principally, of city guests, many ot whom have given liber- ally toward this beneficent work. It was;tpr a long time entirely supported by contributions of the late George C Cooper. It Is under the management of St. Luke's (Bplscopal) church. A town hall and a school building, both of handsome and striking design, aid much In beautifying the streets. There are two fire companies who have proved their efficiency on the few occasions when their services have been required. THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. A bank was located here a short time since under the management ot Potter & Co., mention of which Is made elsewhere. A kindergarten, established by a daughter ol Professor Agasslz, Is supported by her for the present year, after which time It is to be lncor- poratcd into the public school system. This ex- cellent institution Is doing a grand work among the little ones. Two telegraph lines give us connection with the outside world, und, we have alsoan efficient telephone exchange. Our streets are lighted by electricity as are many of the public buildings and private unices and residences Well con- structed systems of water works and sewerage are recent, and great Improvements. Two railroads enter the village and the con- struction ot another Is rumored. Offices of the National anil American Express companies arc located here • The village Is well supplied with hotels and boarding houses, most of them ot the very best class, and many of them filled the year 'round with health and pleasure seekers. The stocks of the many mercantile establish- ments of sarnnnc Lake are so varied andexten- slvc that it is possible to find almost anything demanded by n moderate or even luxurious taste, our merchants recognizing the require- ments of the many .city visitors, have mnde every effort to meet them. saranac Lake, to-uuy, ranks among the very Hrst or health resorts of the nation and It Is be- lieved that she may yet ascend, higher, reach- ing at lust the position ot lirst among them. To i he healch-iceker wo offer unequalled advan- tages; the pleasure seeker finds nothing to be desired, wmie-tho capitalist seeking profitable Investments would do well to investigate our claims. There are foii churches In Sarnnnc Lake—the i ulliollu, Kpiseopal, iTesbytcrinn and Metho- dist. I'lciures of their espectlve buildings art shuwu In these columns 4 .*, &
