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History of Whitehall, New York, USA
Journey back in time to Whitehall, New York, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Whitehall, New York, USA.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Whitehall
Whitehall, Washington, NY
The village of Whitehall is located just south of the point where the Vermont border connects to the south end of Lake Champlain.
The village was founded in 1759 as "Skenesborough" by Major Philip Skene who built the barracks at Crown Point under Gen. Jeffrey Amherst, sold out his commission in the British army to establish the community and the many associated enterprises he planned and later carried out. It was the first settlement at Lake Champlain and became an important trade center. It was on one of two routes between English and French colonies...
The village of Whitehall is located just south of the point where the Vermont border connects to the south end of Lake Champlain.
The village was founded in 1759 as "Skenesborough" by Major Philip Skene who built the barracks at Crown Point under Gen. Jeffrey Amherst, sold out his commission in the British army to establish the community and the many associated enterprises he planned and later carried out. It was the first settlement at Lake Champlain and became an important trade center. It was on one of two routes between English and French colonies...
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VINTAGE WHITEHALL
Whitehall Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Whitehall, New York, USA
Postcard
Whitehall, N.Y., 1770
Whitehall, New York, USA
Postcard
Williams Street
Whitehall, New York, USA
Postcard
Barge Canal, North, Whitehall, N.Y.
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to WHITEHALL
I Love NEW YORK Mug – Pizza, Bagels & Cheesecake Ceramic Coffee Cup
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NEW YORK Roots Genealogy Coffee Mug Gift Idea - Celebrate Your Ancestry with Every Sip!
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ELLIS ISLAND Roots Ceramic Mug – Tribute to Ancestry and New Beginnings - Celebrating Our Immigrant Ancestors
Celebrate your family’s journey with this ceramic mug featuring vintage postcards of Ellis Island, the iconic gateway to America. Adorned with the heartfelt phrase, "Ellis Island: Where My Roots Took Their First Steps!" this mug is a tribute to the brave immigrants who paved the way for future generations. Whether you’re enjoying your morning coffee or sharing stories of your ancestors, this mug serves as a beautiful reminder of the past and the roots that shaped your future. A perfect gift for genealogy enthusiasts or anyone proud of their heritage!
LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Whitehall: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Whitehall through the years.
1759 - Whitehall was first called "Skenesborough" in 1759 when it was settled by a land grant to a British officer, Philip Skene (1725-after 1785),
who later returned to England, and who was subsequently declared an enemy of the State of New York for his land dealings. During the French and Indian War, the town was one of two major routes connecting the English and French Colonies.
1774 - During the American Revolution, the village, Skenesborough, was captured by American forces in 1774.
Benedict Arnold under Philip Schuyler built a fleet of vessels to confront British forces at Valcour Island (thus the claim that this is the birthplace of the US Navy). The surviving American vessels returned here to be destroyed to keep them from falling into enemy hands. The next year John Burgoyne led his forces through this area en route to the Battle of Saratoga. After the war, the town's name was changed to Whitehall.
1812 - (Whitehall, NY) - During the War of 1812 the area was used to build ships to battle British forces on Lake Champlain, culminating at the Battle of Plattsburgh.
1823 - (Whitehall, NY) - In 1823, the Champlain Canal was completed to Whitehall.
The Rensselaer and Saratoga Railroad was extended to Whitehall in 1848.
1854 - Whitehall
Whitehall, a flourishing post-village of Washington co., New York, is beautifully situated in Whitehall township, at the head or S. extremity of Lake Champlain, and on the Saratoga and Washington railroad, 77 miles N. by E. from Albany. The Champlain canal terminates here, connecting the village with Troy. Five steamboats ply daily to the ports on the lake during the summer. Pawlet river and Wood creek enter the lake at this place, and furnish extensive water-power. It contains 4 or 6 churches, 2 banks, 2 newspaper offices, and has an extensive trad* with Canada. Machinery, woollen goods, flour, lumber, and other articles are manufactured. A railroad is projected from this place to Platts- burg. Population of the township, 4726 ; of the village, about 4000.
1895 - Whitehall
Whitehall, a post-town in Whitehall township, Washington co., N.Y., at the head or S. end of Lake Champlain, 76 miles N. by E. of Albany, 24 miles W. of Rutland, Vt., and about 80 miles S. of Burlington. It is the N. terminus of the Champlain Canal, and is at the junction of two divisions of the Rensselaer & Saratoga Railroad. It is £ situated in a ravine at the foot of Skene's Mountain and at the mouth of Wood Creek. Several elegant steamboats ply daily (in the season) between White hall and the other ports on the lake. Whitehall is the most populous town in the county. It contains 5 churches, an academy, 3 national banks, a high school, 2 newspaper offices, a machine-shop, and 2 saw-mills. It has an extensive trade in lumber, &c., and has manufactures of brooms, turned wood, sash, blinds, and lumber. Pop. in 1890,4434; of the township, 5402.
1906
Whitehall, a banking post-village in Whitehall town ship (town), Washington co., N.Y., at the bead or S. end of Lake Champlain, 24 miles W. by S. of Rutland, Vt., on the Delaware and Hudson R. and on the Champlain Canal. It is picturesquely situated in a ravine at the foot of Skene's Mountain and at the mouth of Wood Creek. White hall is largely engaged in transportation, and has car- shops, boat-yards, a trade in lumber, etc. Pop. in 1900, 4377 : of the town, 5295.
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Because of the actions in 1775 and 1776, the legislature of the State of New York in 1960 declared Whitehall to be the birthplace of the United States Navy.
Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Whitehall has something to offer. Here's a list:
Fort Ticonderoga: Just a short drive from Whitehall, Fort Ticonderoga is a must-visit historical attraction. This well-preserved fort played a pivotal role in the French and Indian War and the American Revolution. Explore the grounds, attend reenactments, and take in stunning views of Lake Champlain.
Skenesborough Museum: Learn about Whitehall's rich history at the Skenesborough Museum. It's located in a historic building and showcases the town's maritime and industrial heritage. You'll find artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that provide insight into the area's past.
Champlain Canal Lock 12: Whitehall sits along the Champlain Canal, and you can observe the operation of Lock 12. It's a unique experience to watch boats navigate this historic waterway. Picnic areas nearby make it a great spot for a relaxing afternoon.
Hiking and Nature Trails: If you're into hiking and nature, Whitehall has some great options. The nearby Adirondack Mountains offer a multitude of trails for...
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Skenesborough Museum: Learn about Whitehall's rich history at the Skenesborough Museum. It's located in a historic building and showcases the town's maritime and industrial heritage. You'll find artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that provide insight into the area's past.
Champlain Canal Lock 12: Whitehall sits along the Champlain Canal, and you can observe the operation of Lock 12. It's a unique experience to watch boats navigate this historic waterway. Picnic areas nearby make it a great spot for a relaxing afternoon.
Hiking and Nature Trails: If you're into hiking and nature, Whitehall has some great options. The nearby Adirondack Mountains offer a multitude of trails for...
GENEALOGY IN WHITEHALL
Discover YOUR Roots: Whitehall Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Whitehall through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Whitehall, New York, USA
We currently have information about 32 ancestors who were born or died in Whitehall.
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Ancestors Who Were Married in Whitehall, New York, USA
We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Whitehall.
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Updated: 9/17/2023 7:21:12 PM
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