Named for a large waterfall in the Hudson River (and at first called "Glen's Falls") Glens Falls, New York, has a history longer than it has had a post office, which was established in 1808. Glens Falls' name source is the site of several battles in the Revolutionary War. Glens Falls is also known as the "Gateway to the Adirondacks" because of its proximity east and south of Adirondack Park. Glens Falls is 52 miles north of Albany, along Interstate 87 that goes through the park on its way to Montréal.
Cooper's Cave on the Hudson River is named after James Fenimore Cooper who wrote the historical novel "The Last of the Mohicans," first published in 1826 and still widely read. The cave factors prominently in the novel. It is where Hawkeye, the novel's hero, hides with the remaining members of the Native American tribe while trying to escape. Cooper used the cave in his novel because the Hudson River was a popular travel route during the French and Indian War that the novel depicts. The cave opens for the season on Memorial Day and closes Halloween day. The admission is free.
Cooper's Cave
46 Saratoga Avenue
South Glens Falls, NY 12803
518-793-1455
sgfny.com/Coopers-Cave.htm
With a permanent collection of over 2,800 paintings, sculpture, furniture, and decorative arts objects acquired by the museum's founders, Louis and Charlotte Hyde, The Hyde Collection features its holdings by world-class masters. Its exhibitions have been reviewed by the New York Times, which called its Da Vinci show in 2006 focusing on the "Mona Lisa" "a gem." There is a suggested admission fee of $5 for the Collection. They offer guided tours, individually or as a group, for an extra charge. The Collection is closed on Mondays and national holidays. Parking is free.
The Hyde Collection
161 Warren Street
Glens Falls, NY 12801
518-792-1761
hydecollection.org
Housed in the historic Victorian house of the DeLong family since 1868, the Chapman Historical Museum preserves artifacts that document the unique history of the Glens Falls region, including an extensive collection of historic photographs. The museum features exhibitions as well as public and educational programs that highlight the lives of the people who have given the lower Adirondack region its local color. The museum also has a research archive that is open by appointment.
Chapman Historical Museum
348 Glen Street
Glens Falls, NY 12801
518-793-2826
chapmanmuseum.org
