ploy of his country. Its length is about 300 miles, and breadth varying from four miles to 300 yards. It is particularly noted for carrying on its waters the first practical steamer ever launched. Robert Fulton, 200 years after the discovery of the river, sailed up its stream on the little steamer Clermont. revolutionary history, we arrive at Irving- Three miles back of Piermont is the old historical town of Tappan, noted for being the scene where the unfortunate Major André was confined after his arrest, and where he was executed October 2, 1780. The jail is now occupied as an inn, called the "76 Stone House." Tappan was also one of the principal head-quarters of Gen A short distance above the city, on our left, we arrive at the celebrated Palisades, which consist of a range of precipices rising some 500 feet above the river's level, and extending in an unbroken line as far as Tappan Bay, a distance of some 20 miles. On our right we notice the handsome town of Bloomingdale, which is five miles from the City Hall. It contains the Orphan Asylum and numerous beautiful residences. Five miles farther, and we arrive at the bold and picturesque heights of Fort Washington, the most elevated position of the island of Manhattan. This spot is particularly noted in American history as the scene of one of our defeats dur-eral Washington. ing the dark hours of the Revolution. The fort, with 3000 prisoners, fell into the hands of General Cornwallis, November 16, 1776. The site of the fort is now covered with lovely villas, one of which is the property of James Gordon Bennett, Esq. Nearly opposite, on our left, crowning the summit of the Palisades, stands Fort Lee, also memorable during the Revolution. It was captured by Cornwallis two days after the capture of Fort Washington, and many of its brave defenders were basely butchered by an overwhelming force of Hessians while retreating on the main army at Hackensack, commanded by Washington in per son. Seventeen miles from New York we pass the enchanting town of Yonkers, rich in the beautiful suburban residences of New York's merchants. This was the home of Mary Phillips, the youthful love of General Washington. Her ancient residence may still be seen. The talented and amusing author of the "Sparrowgrass Papers" resides at Yonkers. A little farther we pass Fonthill: its castle was formerly the residence of Edwin Forrest, Esq., our great American tragedian; it is now the Roman Catholic Academy of Mount St. Vincent. After passing Hastings, another beautiful town, and Dobbs's Ferry, which must have great attractions for the reader of our The next place of importance on our right is Tarrytown, known to readers of American history as the place where André was arrested after his interview with the traitor Arnold. It is twenty-six miles above New York, and contains many lovely villas, mostly occupied by New Yorkers. A short distance from the town is "Sleepy Hollow," immortalized by Irving in his Sketch Book. Here Diedrich Knickerbocker breathed forth his inspirations, and here Ichabod Crane met and was chased by the "headless horseman." Sleepy Hollow is a lovely spot, and, if stopping at Tarrytown, do not fail to visit it. A small granite obelisk marks the spot where Paulding and his comrades arrested André. site is the town of Nyack. farther, on our right, we pass the town of Sing Sing: it is noted for its lovely residences, and for being the seat of the principal state prisons of New York. In the immediate vicinity is the Croton River, from whence the city of New York derives its supply of delicious water. The Aqueduct and Reservoir are objects of general interest: they cost the city of New York $14,000,000. The prisons are built of marble, are large and roomy, and admirably conducted: they are capable of accommodating 1000 convicts. Opposite Sing Sing, across Tappan Bay, which is the wid OppoSeven miles est part of the river, is Verdritege's Hook, a hand, throw yourself upon the margin of commanding headland. On the summit the lovely river, and read how the traitor of the hill, nearly 300 feet above, and one Arnold, in command of this key to the mile from the river, lies Rockland Lake, navigation of the river, plotted with the four miles in circumference, whence comes enemy for its surrender. An excursion the principal supply of delicious ice which should be made to Crow's Nest, one of the cools the parching throats of New York's finest mountains of the Highlands, clothed citizens during the summer months. A in green to its summit. Near Cornwall short distance farther up is Verplanck's Point Landing, farther on, is "Idlewild," the and Stony Point, both noted places in our lovely residence of the poet Willis. Alrevolutionary history. Here commences most opposite this, on the eastern shore, is the magnificent scenery of the Highlands. the charming village of Cold Spring, near On our right is Peekskill, which abounds which are the handsome residences of the in beautiful residences; opposite is Cald- late poet, George P. Morris, and Mr. F. P. well's Landing. Passengers for Lake Ma- James, the banker. One of the largest hopac, a pleasant summer resort, land at iron founderies in the United States is sitPeekskill. Caldwell's Landing was noted uated here. About four miles from here in former years for being the spot where is the Robinson House, which was occuCaptain Kidd's treasures were supposed to pied by Arnold at the time he heard of have been hidden. After passing the But- André's arrest. The next place of imtermilk Falls, on the western bank, we ar- portance is Fishkill, on the eastern shore. rive at West Point, distant from New York The town is a short distance back from fifty miles. This is one of the most lovely the landing; both that and Newburg, on spots on the Hudson, and most rich in a the opposite bank, are beautiful flourishing historical point of view; it is also the seat towns, abounding in splendid country resof the United States Military Academy, idences. A branch of the Erie Railroad which was established here in 1802, and has its terminus at Newburg, from whence from whence graduated the greater por- the line runs direct to Buffalo and the tion of the brave officers who immortalized West. [This is one of the finest roads in themselves during our late civil war. The the country, running through most glonames of Grant, Meade, and M'Clellan, as rious scenery. If in a hurry to reach the well as Lee, who controlled the destinies West, we would most decidedly recom of the Confederate armies, all of whom re- mend it.] A short distance from Newceived their military education here, will burg the traveler may still see the old make West Point forever famous; in ad- stone mansion which General Washington dition to this, it is the burial-place of our made his head-quarters, and where he wrote brave old hero Scott, who, while living, to Lewis Nicola, declining with disdain the made it a favorite residence. A short dis- offer to establish a monarchy and make tance from the Academy, in one of the himself king. most charming and picturesque spots in the world, is situated Cozzens's Hotel, a first-class summer establishment, admirably conducted. Arrange, if possible, to be at West Point during the months of July and August, during which time the cadets are encamped in tents on the plain, and go through the regular discipline of an army in time of war. The military band practices daily. Notice below the parade-ground the obelisk erected to the memory of the brave Kosciusko; also his garden on the river's bank, where he was much accustomed to walk. Visit also the ruins of the different forts, and wander through the shady groves, or, with Lossing's Field-Book of the Revolution in your Fourteen miles farther, and 74 from New York, we arrive at the flourishing town of Poughkeepsie. It is the largest place between New York and Albany. Its situation is one of remarkable beauty, commanding, as it does, one of the most delightful prospects on the Hudson. The historian, Benson J. Lossing, and Professor Morse, are both residents of Poughkeepsie. For the next 10 miles on the eastern bank, through Hyde Park to the village of Staatsburg, the road by land is one of surpassing beauty, and never have we met the most extensive traveler who ever saw a situation more enchanting. In full view of the beautiful Catskill Mountains, with their everchanging magic hues, which, whether in a small hotel, the Laurel House, near the falls: its situation is truly charming. An excursion should be made to Stony Clove, a wild mountain pass about six miles distant from the Mountain House: it will well repay the time; also to Plauterkilì Clove. Our next important place is Hudson, which stands at the head of ship naviga tion, 115 miles above New York. The Hudson and Berkshire railroad, 33 miles in length, runs east to West Stockbridge, uniting with the road from Boston to Albany. Passengers for Lebanon Springs and the Shaker village take the cars at Hudson, by this route, as far as Edwards's Dépôt, thence by stage eight miles. Lebanon is a place of great resort during the summer months; so, also, are the Columbia Springs, five miles distant. Hudson is finely situated on a high promontory com a storm or fair and settled, are always en- | of 175 feet, and then, pausing for a moment chanting, charming sites for the charming on a ledge of rock about 100 feet wide, preresidences we there see. After passing cipitates itself 85 feet more. It is perfectHyde Park we see "Placentia," the resi- ly safe to pass behind the falling water dence of the late James K. Paulding, who into the natural amphitheatre: the effect has shed lustre on the letters of his coun- of the cascade is there very magnificent. try. Adjoining this is the beautiful and The falls of the west branch of the Kaatcelebrated "Hosack" estate, on which per-erskill are also very beautiful. There is haps the finest residence on the Hudson was erected by Joseph R. Curtis, Esq. Farther on we arrive at the village of Staatsburg, the homestead of the Livingston family, and "The Locusts," the splendid country residence of William B. Dinsmore, Esq., particularly noted for his extensive importations of the best European stock. Six miles farther, on the eastern side, we arrive at Rhinebeck, a place of considerable importance. It is situated about two miles from the bank of the river. On the opposite, or western side, is Kingston, a pleasant and enterprising town. It is noted for being the place where the first Constitution of New York was framed. It was burned by the British in 1777. After passing Saugerties and Tivoli, we arrive at Catskill, situated at the mouth of the Catskill Creek, on the western bank of the river. On the eastern bank is Oakhill, where passengers for the Catskill Mount-manding an extensive view of the river. ains leave the cars to cross the ferry to the village of Catskill, which is particularly noted for its lovely scenery and beautiful villas. Stages run from here several times a day to the Mountain House, in four hours. The distance is only 12 miles, but the elevation is nearly 3000 feet above the level of the river. We have not the room in a After passing Stockport, Castleton, and work of this description to descant on Greenbush, we arrive at Albany, the capital the magnificent views which may be ob- of the state, from whence diverge the most tained from the Mountain House. For par- important routes we have selected. If inticulars, see it; or, if you can not see it, tending to visit Niagara, Montreal, and read Cooper's "Pioneers," where Leather- Quebec, and return by Lake Champlain, Stocking says, from here you can see cre- Lake George, and Saratoga Springs, take ation at a single glance. It was within a the New York Central Railroad (one of mile of this house that Irving's Rip Van the best and most admirably conducted Winkle had his fifteen years' nap. The roads in the United States, or, perhaps, the hotel is a fine, commodious building, admi- world; no accidents, and always up to time) rably kept, with every convenience neces- to Niagara, passing through the towns of sary for the first-class traveler. Utica, Syracuse, and Rochester; thence by Lake Ontario, and down the Rapids of the St. Lawrence to Montreal; or, if intending to return that way, continue north through Schenectady to Saratoga, distance 37 miles; from thence by rail to Whitehall and Montreal. But by far the most in The principal excursion is to the Kaaterskill Falls, a distance of two miles from the hotel. Issuing out of two small lakes behind the hotel, the stream which forms the falls runs about one and a half miles, and then falls perpendicularly a distance The city is laid out at right angles, the principal street (Main) extending more than a mile, from Promenade to Prospect Hill, which last stands nearly 200 feet above the level of the river. The town of Athens lies immediately opposite Hudson, and has some fine country residences. teresting route will be-after visiting Saratoga Springs, continue on to Moreau Station, where fast lines of coaches are in waiting for Lake George, thence by boat on Lake George to Ticonderoga and Lake Champlain to Montreal. Perhaps the better way will be to visit Niagara first, as it is more interesting going down the Rapids of the St. Lawrence than coming up. Albany contains 75,000 inhabitants, and is, next to what remains of Jamestown, in Virginia, the oldest European settlement in the United States. It was founded in 1612 by the Dutch, and bore the name of Fort Orange for upward of half a century. When the territory was captured by the English in 1664, the name of Fort Orange was changed at the same time the name of New Amsterdam was changed, to the present appellations of New York and Albany, in honor of James, Duke of York and Albany, brother of Charles II., to whom the whole country had been granted by royal charter. Albany is very beautifully situated on the slope of an eminence which rises from a flat track of ground which lies along the shore to a height of 220 feet. On the summit of this eminence stands the Capitol, fronting on a fine square. The apartments for the accommodation of the Senate and Assembly are richly furnished. Ascend to the Observatory at the top, and catch a glimpse of the beauties of the surrounding country. The City Hall, on the east side of the same square, is also a fine building. The Albany Academy, near by, is also a very fine building and an admirable institution. Visit the Exchange, Dudley Observatory, and Medical College. Congress Hall and Delavan House are both fine hotels. From Albany to Niagara Falls the distance is 305 miles. Hotels, Cataract and International. The Clifton Hotel is the best on the Canadian side. The Falls of Niagara have been described by so many tourists, and their first emotions have been so variously depicted, that we will make no attempt to describe the effect produced upon us during our first visit. Thousands upon thousands come and go every year, all feeling satisfied that they have seen one of 730 the wonders of the world. "To the question," says a late tourist who has recorded his impressions, "Were you disappointed by the first view?' which is generally asked, I answer 'No;' but it is right to add I had been careful not to raise my expectations too high. Indeed, remembering how many persons have expressed themselves disappointed by the height of the falls appearing so insignificant in proportion to their great breadth, I had dwarfed my ideal view too much, and now, when the reality was before me, it exceeded my expectations. This is a pleasing disappointment. A walk, or rather a run of a few minutes from the Clifton brought me to Table Rock, whence I gazed on the descending sea before me with feelings of awe and wonder, tempered by a feeling of gratitude that I was permitted to look upon a scene whose stupendous majesty is identified with my earliest knowledge of the wonders of the world. Seen from Table Rock no disap pointment can be felt. For my part, so entirely was I unprepared for the enor mous volume of water, that, in the weakness of my comprehension and inability to grasp the scene, I was unwilling to turn my eyes from the glorious spectacle, apprehending that it could only endure for a season, and that the overwhelming flood of water must speedily cease. But as I gazed with trembling anxiety, and marked no change beyond the masses of spray clouds swayed by the wind across the mighty sheet which ever retained its sublime proportions, the truth began to force itself upon me that, for thousands of years, the waters had been falling, by day and by night, at all times and at all seasons, ever sounding, in a voice which, once heard, can never be forgotten, the praise of Him who bade them flow. Here, indeed, may be felt the beauty of the words in our Canticle, O ye seas and floods, bless ye the Lord, praise him and magnify him forever.' And it was probably with deep awe that the Indian of olden time, worshiping the Great Spirit, gave the peculiar appropriate name, O-Ni-aw-ga-rah, the Thunderer of Waters, to this matchless scene." The greatness of the Falls of Niagara, like the Pyramids of Egypt, grows upon the contemplation. It is only by slow and gradual degrees that the full sense of their grandeur is realized. They were first dis appeared. Entering the Museum close by Table Rock, from where one of the finest. views is obtained, you will find rather an interesting collection of curiosities, not including an abominable assortment of wax figures. Many visitors have been puzzled to tell which was Columbus and which the Witch of Endor; but, as you pay your English shilling, you can take your choice. The view from the Observatory at the top of the Museum is very fine. A very exciting feat is going under the fall, which is done from this point. It is necessary to procure a bathing-dress and guide, price $1. From hence visit the celebrated burning springs, originally discovered by the Indians; they are well worth the time and expense. covered by a French Jesuit, named Hen- | The old woman and poetry have both disnepin, 186 years ago, and are situated 22 miles from where the River Niagara commences to drain the waters of Lake Erie into those of Ontario. The river is 36 miles in length. An imaginary line running down its centre divides the United States from Canada. There are, as is well known, two distinct though adjoining falls, one on the Canadian, the other on the American side of the river. Goat Island, which rises in the midst of the foaming Niagara-the waters of the river form a succession of rapids some miles above the edge of the cataract-divides the two. It is half a mile long by a quarter broad, and finely shaded with trees. Adjoining it is Bath Island, which is connected with the main land on the American side by a suspension bridge. Visitors pay 25 cents to cross, which gives them access to the island during their stay. The different points of interest on the island should all be visited, such as the "Terrapin Tower," the "Cave of the Winds," "Biddle's Stairs," etc., etc. Between Goat Island and the Canadian shore is the Horse-shoe Falls, so called from their shape. They are 2000 feet wide, and have a descent of 158 feet perpendicular. On the American side the falls are 900 feet wide, and 164 feet perpendicular. The former is considered superior in effect from the beautiful curve of the water. A few hundred yards below the falls on the American side is Prospect Point, which commands one of the finest views, from whence you can enter a railway car, and descend an inclined plane to the edge of the river, where you take the ferry-boat for the Canadian shore. Or you can take a carriage, at an abominably high rate per hour, and cross the suspension bridge, and drive up the other shore, enjoying all the distance a matchless prospect. Old visitors will remember the spot where Miss Martha Rugg, in stooping to gather flowers, lost her balance, and was precipitated into the foaming torrent below. An old apple-woman in former years pointed out the spot, and had erected over it a piece of canvas on two sticks with the following original verse: "Woman, most beauteous of thy race! Thence to the battle-field of "Lundy's Lane," returning by the suspension bridge, one of the finest structures in the world, built by John A. Roebling, at an expense of $500,000. It has two roadways, one above the other. On the upper the cars of the New York Central and Great Western pass; the lower is used for foot-passengers, horses, wagons, etc. After visiting the "Whirlpool," which is three miles below the Falls, the "Devil's Hole," and "Bloody Run," all of which are on the American side, we may have concluded to have "done" Niagara. If you do not take a guide, which we advise you to do, get an intelligent driver, and purchase a small guide-book of the place. A large assortment of guides, maps, and views will be found in the International Hotel. We shall now continue west as far as St. Anthony's Falls via Lake Superior, and also via Madison, Indiana, which is the shorter of the two routes; then return to Niagara, and describe the trip back to New York by Lake Champlain, Lake George, and Saratoga, and also by the White Mountains, Boston, and Newport. The distance from Niagara to Detroit by the Great Western road is 229 miles. This city is finely situated on the western bank of the Detroit River. It contains about 50,000 inhabitants. Principal hotels are the Russell House and Biddle House. De troit is the largest city in the State of Michigan, and is the chief seat of its trade. It was first settled in 1701 by the French, and soon became a great fur-trading dépôt. |