History of Warren County New York

This is an account of the living that has gone on for over 300 years in the 900 square miles that make up Warren County, living that ranges from violence to peace, from back-breaking work to vacation leisure. It is an account of man's use of his environment to support himself and the way man has adapted himself to changed conditions.

The land was forbidding when Father Isaac Jogues first came this way in 1646, yet he found beauty in it. He was so moved by the lake, set in its surrounding hills and mountains, that he called it Lac du St. Sacrement, a name by which it was known for over a century, until it became Lake George in 1755. Much of the military action of the French and Indian War, which determined that this part of Northeastern United States would be English-speaking, took place on and around Lake George. The region was ravaged again during the Revolution and its residents driven out, to return in increasing numbers when peace came. By March 12, 1813, Warren County was set off from Washington County, taking its name from Joseph Warren, who died a hero's death at Bunker Hill.

The things in nature which the early settlers had to deal with are still with us, modified somewhat and made more accessible. They are the greatest asset which Warren County has.

A community which knows its own history can better understand its present and plan its future. Warren County is fortunate in having many who have devoted themselves to such a study. The work of the official historians of the towns and of the county has been supplemented in this book by the work of others who have a special background or skill. The result is a book which puts in permanent form the essence of a story which ought to be known.