History of Hillsdale, New York, USA

General Henry Knox and his troops passed through here in the winter of 1775-76 with a load of 59 cannons pulled by teams of oxen.
The cannons were captured from the British at Fort Ticonderoga and Crown Point. They were transported from Lake Champlain to Dorchester Heights, Massachusetts and used by George Washington's army on March 17, 1776 (Evacuation Day) to free Boston from British control during the American Revolutionary War.

1854 - Hillsdale
Hillsdale, a post-township on the E. border of Columbia co., N. Y. Pop., 2123.

Hillsdale, a small post-village in the above township, about 40 miles S. S. E. from Albany.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.

1895 - Hillsdale
Hillsdale, a post-village of Columbia co., N.Y., in Hillsdale township, on the New York & Harlem Railroad, 110 miles N. by E. of New York, and about 16 miles E. by S. of Hudson. It has 2 churches, a public school, a news. paper office, a furnace, a grist-mill, and a carriage-shop. Pop, about 300; of the township, 1554.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

1900 - Hillsdale
Hillsdale is the fourth from the north and third from the south in the eastern tier of towns of the county. It is bounded on the north by Austerlitz, on the east by the Massachusetts line, on the south by Cowpoke and on the west by Claverack and Ghent. Its superficial area is 26,699 acres. This town was originally a part of the Van Rensselaer patent, with the exception of a narrow strip on the eastern side, which, until the final settlement of the boundary question about 1790, was under the jurisdiction of Massachusetts. At that time there were a number of settlers on this strip, to some of whom the State surrendered its claim in 1793.

Apart from the valley at the foot of the Taghkanic mountains, which extend along the eastern boundary, and one or two short and narrow vales, Hillsdale is a territory of hills; nearly all of these are tillable to their summits. From the summits of some of these Taghkanic peaks extended views of varied scenery may be obtained. Within the bounds of the ... Read MORE...

1916
Hillsdale, a post-village of Columbia co., N.Y., in Hillsdale township (town), on the New York Central and Hudson River R., 16 miles E. by S. of Hudson. Pop. about 375: of the town in 1900, 1390.
Lippincotts New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns, Resorts, Islands, Rivers, Mountains, Seas, Lakes, Etc., in Every Portion of the Globe, Part 1 Angelo Heilprin Louis Heilprin - January 1, 1916 J.B. Lippincott - Publisher

Here's a mix of places to visit and things to do in Hillsdale:
Catamount Ski Area: If you're visiting Hillsdale during the winter months, the Catamount Ski Area is a must-visit. It offers skiing and snowboarding opportunities for all skill levels. The beautiful mountain setting adds to the overall experience.

Bash Bish Falls: Located nearby in Taconic State Park, Bash Bish Falls is the highest waterfall in Massachusetts. It's a short hike from Hillsdale and offers breathtaking views. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the natural beauty.

Harlem Valley Rail Trail: This scenic rail trail is perfect for biking, jogging, or leisurely strolls. It stretches for over 15 miles and provides beautiful views of the countryside. You can rent bikes in Hillsdale if you don't have your own.

Hillsdale General Store: This historic general store is a treasure trove of unique gifts, antiques, and artisanal products. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs or indulge in some retail therapy.

Art Galleries: Hillsdale has a thriving arts community,... Read MORE...