LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Altona: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Altona through the years.
In 1857, the town of Altona was formed from part of the Town of Chazy. The early economy was based on natural resources: mining, logging, and tanning.
1873 - September 29 - A Sad and Fatal Casualty
A man named John W. Brennan, of Altona, N.Y., a brakeman in the employ of the Central Vermont Railroad for a short time past, was run over by a freight train at East Alburgh, on Friday morning, while uncoupling the engine from the train when in motion. We understand that nineteen cars passed over one of his legs and side, but he survived his terrible injuries about two hours. He leaves a young wife to mourn his untimely departure.
The Rutland Daily Globe
Rutland, Vermont
September 29, 1873
1892 - November 22 - Contable Lapan, at Altona, N.Y., "sicked" his dog at Neighbor Nappen's cows, and Nappen threw a stone at the dog. Lapan hurled the stone back, striking Nappen on the head, killing him.
The Pantagraph
Bloomington, Illinois
November 22, 1892
1895 - Altona
Altona, a post-village of Altona township, Clinton co., N.Y., on the Ogdensburg & Lake Champlain Railroad, 34 miles E. of Malone, and about 16 miles N. by W. from Plattsburg. It has 2 churches, and manufactures of iron and lumber. The township has 4 forges, 2 tanneries, and ll saw-mills. Pop. of township, 2368.
1902 - Cut His Throat With a Scythe.
Michael Kennedy, a well-known farmer of Altona, Clinton County, N.Y., committed suicide while insane by cutting his throat with a scythe in a barn on his own premises. He was about fifty-five years old and married.
The North Carolinian
Elizabeth City, North Carolina
July 24, 1902
1905 - January 5 - Wilbur Guyette was hanging up his shotgun in his house at Altona, N. Y., when he fell from his chair, accidentally discharging the gun and mortally wounding his father, Edward Guyette. The young man is nearly crazy from grief.
The Columbian
Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania
January 5, 1905
1916
Altona, a post-village of Altona township (town), Clinton co., N.Y., on the Ogdensburg and Lake Champlain R., 36 miles E. of Malone and 16 miles N. by W. of Plattsburg. Pop. of the town in 1900, 2465.
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 list of places to go and things to do in and around Altona:
Altona Flat Rock: This is one of the most distinctive natural features in the area. It's a large, flat rock surface that was formed during the last ice age. It's a great spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Chazy Highlands State Forest: Just a short drive from Altona, this state forest offers excellent hiking, bird watching, and hunting opportunities. There are several marked trails, making it a great place for a day in the woods.
North Country Golf Club: If you're a golf enthusiast, the North Country Golf Club in Rouses Point is a picturesque course worth visiting. It's relatively close to Altona and provides a serene setting for a round of golf.
Adirondack Coast Wine Trail: Altona is part of the Adirondack Coast region, known for its wineries. Take a scenic drive and explore the various wineries in the area, including Amazing Grace Vineyard & Winery and Vesco Ridge Vineyards.
Lake Champlain: Altona is situated near Lake...
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