The History of Lake George NY

Located in the Adirondacks of Upstate NY, Lake George is an area chock-full of history and culture. The lake itself was an essential transportation passageway for Native Americans. Because Lake George formed a gateway between Lake Champlain and the Hudson River, it continued to be a vital form of transport during the Colonial times. The Region also served an important role in the French and Indian War as well as the Revolutionary War.

In 1642, Father Isaac Joques and two others, were the first white men to catch a glimpse of the stunning lake. Joques was attacked by the Mohawks, but managed to escape and returned to France. Four years later, Father Isaac returned to the area in hopes of signing a peace treaty with the Iroquois. On the festival of Corpus Christi, Joques named the lake “Lac du Saint Sacrement”.

In 1755, in hopes of getting rid of French Rights in America, an expedition against the French was planned in the Lake George Region. Major General William Johnson moved his force of 2,200 colonial troops and 300 Native American Indians from Albany towards Fort Edward, and onto Lac du Saint Sacrement. They settled at the head of the Lake and, in honor of King George II, renamed it Lake George. On this day, three battles were fought: the Battle of Lake George, Battle at Bloody Pond, and Bloody Morning Scout.

The village surrounding Lake George remained a prime route for the British and French Colonies during the Colonial era. The area also continued to be the site of battles fought during this time period.

Due to the stunning beauty of the Lake and surrounding Adirondack Mountains, coupled with its close proximity to big cities like New York City and Boston, Lake George grew to become a popular tourist destination during the late 19th Century. Railroad tracks made it easy for tourists to flock to the area and steam boats were used as a convenient means for people to get to Lake George Hotels.

In 1903, the Village of Lake George was incorporated. Fort William Henry, which was originally burned during the French and Indian War, was reconstructed and can be found in the Village. Today, it operates as a museum and remains a popular tourist attraction in Lake George. Other historic sites, monuments and markers can be found throughout the region to commemorate the historic events that took place in Lake George generations ago.