Historical Walking Tour

The Historical Walking Tour
Sponsored by the Northville Northampton Historical Society

412 South Main Street, Northville, NY 12134
www.townofnorthampton.com/history/
Phone: 518-863-4040

The Village of Northville

The Village of Northville, NY is located in Fulton County in the Town of Northampton. It is nestled in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, within the Adirondack Park. Northville sits on the shores of the Great Sacandaga Lake, where the Sacandaga River flows in from the north.

The first permanent settlement took place in the late 1780’s. Main Street was surveyed and laid out in 1797. In 1807 only six families lived along Main Street. The village was incorporated in 1873. During the latter half of the nineteenth century, the lumber industry created a boomtown with milling, cooperage, tanning and woodenware industries. Up into the early 1900’s the Village (as well as the Hamlet of Sacandaga Park, across the river) enjoyed a strong economy and a rich cultural life. There were a number of large hotels, entertainment halls and a railroad. The construction of the Conklingville Dam in 1929 brought major changes to the local economy. The gates of the dam were closed on March 27, 1930 and although the Village of Northville itself was mostly spared, several other communities, including a large portion of Sacandaga Park were flooded and gone forever.

Because of its location along the Great Sacandaga Lake, proximity to Route 30 being the entrance to the Southern Adirondacks, wonderful boating, hiking and skiing opportunities, its picturesque setting and historical architecture, Northville has become a destination point for summer, fall and winter tourists. Facilities for tourists are steadily expanding in the Great Sacandaga Lake region and now include several fne restaurants, a golf course and bed and breakfasts. You will also fnd a wonderful cross-country ski resort, a regional cultural arts program, arts and craft shops, marinas, libraries, an extensive fsh stocking program, sailing regattas, opportunities for hiking, cycling, snowshoeing, ice-fshing, snowmobiling and other outdoor pursuits. Camping at the Northampton Beach Campground, right along the lake, is an experience not to be missed.

In recent years, the village has created the Waterfront Park which sits behind the historic Main St. buildings, overlooking Northville Lake, better known to locals as “The Little Lake.” Many community events are held in this park throughout the year, as it boasts a performance stage, picnic areas, a gazebo, and ample room for vendors or activities.

Be sure to check out the many local businesses along Main Street and Bridge Street, located in the historic buildings, some of which date back to the mid-1800s. There are several shops and restaurants within the village, as well as a gas station, convenience stores, a hardware store, post ofce and other businesses providing specialized services.

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